Thanksgiving Turkey Meatloaf with Stuffing and Cranberry Glaze

When I want all the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving without roasting a whole turkey, this Thanksgiving Meatloaf is the answer.

Made with juicy ground turkey, hearty stuffing mix, and topped with a sweet-tart cranberry glaze, it’s the perfect holiday-inspired dinner in loaf form.

It’s festive, cozy, and packed with flavor in every bite.

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Recipe Highlights

This meatloaf captures the essence of Thanksgiving dinner but in a simple, easy-to-make loaf. The stuffing keeps it moist, the turkey keeps it light, and the cranberry glaze adds the perfect sweet-tart finish.

• Combines turkey, stuffing, and cranberries into one festive loaf.
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• Juicy, moist, and full of Thanksgiving flavor.
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• Easy alternative to a full holiday turkey dinner.
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• Can be made ahead and reheated for convenience.
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• Perfect for small gatherings or weeknight fall dinners.

Ingredients for a Memorable Dish

Creating this turkey meatloaf requires a few key ingredients that come together beautifully.

You’ll need 1 1/2 pounds of ground turkey, which forms the base of the meatloaf, complemented by 1 cup of stuffing mix to add texture and flavor.

A half cup of chicken broth ensures moisture, while 2 large eggs help bind the mixture. Finely chopped onion and celery bring aromatic notes, and the fresh herbs—chopped sage and thyme—add depth to the flavor profile.

Finally, a cup of cranberry sauce serves as a delicious glaze, along with salt and pepper to taste.

• Ground turkey – Lean yet flavorful, it makes the loaf lighter than beef.
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• Stuffing mix – Acts as a binder while infusing classic Thanksgiving flavor.
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• Eggs – Keep the loaf tender and help it hold together.
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• Onion & celery – Add aromatic flavor and that holiday stuffing vibe.
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• Chicken broth – Moistens the stuffing mix and adds savory depth.
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• Cranberry sauce – Sweet-tart glaze that balances the savory loaf.
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• Sage & thyme – Classic Thanksgiving herbs for warmth and aroma.

How to Make My Thanksgiving Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment.
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2. Prepare stuffing mix. In a bowl, combine stuffing mix with chicken broth until softened. Let’s sit for 5 minutes.
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3. Mix the meatloaf base. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, softened stuffing, eggs, onion, celery, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
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4. Shape the loaf. Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan and smooth the top evenly.
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5. Glaze. Spread half the cranberry sauce over the top.
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6. Bake. Cook uncovered for 50–55 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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7. Finish. Brush with remaining cranberry sauce and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Preparation Steps

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, stuffing mix, chicken broth, eggs, chopped onion, chopped celery, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Mix everything until well combined, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor throughout the meatloaf.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

Once the mixture is ready, transfer it to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.

This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and presentation.

Spread the cranberry sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf before placing it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the meatloaf is cooked thoroughly and remains moist.

Serving Suggestions

After baking, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

This resting period helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful slice.

Serve the meatloaf warm, accompanied by additional cranberry sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra burst of flavor.

Traditional Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or honey-glazed carrots complement the meatloaf beautifully, creating a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere.

Creating a Festive Holiday Table

When presenting your turkey meatloaf, consider the overall table setting to enhance the festive spirit.

Use seasonal decorations, such as autumn leaves or small pumpkins, to create a welcoming environment.

Arrange the meatloaf at the center, surrounded by the classic sides, to draw attention and make it the star of the meal.

This thoughtful presentation not only showcases your culinary skills but also sets the tone for a memorable holiday gathering.

Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Meatloaf

Use seasoned stuffing mix for the most flavorful results. Don’t overmix the turkey mixture or the loaf can become dense—gentle folding is best.

Adding the cranberry glaze in two stages (before and after baking) gives you both caramelization and fresh flavor.

Storage and Warming Leftovers

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, or microwave slices with a splash of broth for added moisture.

For freezing, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months—thaw overnight before reheating.