Prepare to elevate your meatloaf game with this stunning Turkey Thigh Meatloaf that brings together the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine and comforting home cooking. Packed with surprising ingredients like whole eggs, olives, and feta cheese, this meatloaf is far from ordinary and promises to be a showstopper at any dining table.
Ingredients
Meatloaf Base
- 800 g boneless turkey thigh, ground
- 1 pack Knorr Minced Meat Seasoning
- 2 Kaiser rolls, soaked in milk
- 1 tsp Knorr coarse ground spicy seasoning
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
Additional Ingredients
- 7 eggs (2 for mixing, 5 for filling)
- 100 g green olives, sliced
- 100 g black olives, sliced
- 100 g feta cheese, cubed
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture Grind turkey thigh meat or use pre-ground meat. Soak Kaiser rolls in milk and squeeze out excess liquid. Combine ground meat with soaked rolls.
- Season and Mix Add Knorr Minced Meat Seasoning, coarse ground spicy seasoning, 2 chopped eggs, and chopped parsley. Gently fold in sliced olives and feta cheese cubes. Mix thoroughly but carefully to maintain texture.
- Prepare Hard-Boiled Eggs Hard-boil 5 eggs, cool, peel, and set aside.
- Assemble the Meatloaf Line a baking tin with parchment paper. Layer half the meat mixture, create a central indentation, and place hard-boiled eggs in a line. Cover with remaining meat mixture.
- Bake Tap the meatloaf on the counter to remove air pockets. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 90 minutes.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 150-200 g slice
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 35-40 g
- Carbohydrates: 8-10 g
- Fat: 22-25 g
- Fiber: 1-2 g
Cooking Time:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh, high-quality ground turkey thigh for best flavor
- Soak bread in milk to keep meatloaf moist
- Mix ingredients gently to prevent tough texture
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 74°C
- Let meatloaf rest 10-15 minutes before slicing
Variations and Substitutions
- Substitute turkey with ground chicken
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of Kaiser rolls
- Replace feta with goat cheese
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor
- Use vegetarian meat substitute for a plant-based version
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I freeze this meatloaf? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before reheating.
Q2: How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked? Internal temperature should reach 74°C. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Q3: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Omit feta cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Q4: What sides pair well with this meatloaf? Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh Greek salad.
Q5: How long will the meatloaf keep in the refrigerator? Properly stored, it will last 3-4 days.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
- Best consumed within 3-4 days
- Reheat at 160°C for 15-20 minutes
- Can be prepared a day in advance
- Slice before storing for easier reheating
Enjoy this spectacular Turkey Thigh Meatloaf – a true culinary adventure on your plate!
