Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf with Ground Turkey – A Hearty, Flavorful Twist

This Pesto Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf with Ground Turkey is a delightful fusion of savory flavors and hearty textures. Lean ground turkey is used as the base for this meatloaf, complemented by creamy mozzarella cheese and a vibrant pesto filling. The result is a moist, flavorful meatloaf with a cheesy center and an irresistible herby taste. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep, providing a healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf while still satisfying all your savory cravings. You can substitute ground chicken for turkey or even use beef if preferred.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey (or ground chicken)
  
  

• ½ lb ground sausage
  
  

• ½ small sweet or white onion, finely diced
  
  

• ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  
  

• 1 large egg, whisked
  
  

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  
  

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  
  

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  
  

• 1 tsp salt
  
  

• ½ tsp black pepper
  
  

• ¼ cup tomato sauce
  
  

• 6 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
  
  

• ¼ cup pesto sauce
  
  

For the meatloaf glaze

• ¾ cup tomato sauce
  
  

• 2 tbsp ketchup
  
  

• ½ tsp dried oregano
  
  

• ½ tsp dried basil
  
  

• ¼ tsp garlic powder
  
  

• ¼ tsp salt
  
  

• ⅛ tsp black pepper
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet or large baking dish with foil for easy cleanup.
   
   

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, ground sausage, onion, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce. Mix until well combined using your hands or a spoon.
   
   

3. On a foil-lined baking sheet, shape half of the meat mixture into a rectangular shape, about 9x5 inches.
   
   

4. Place slices of mozzarella cheese down the center of the meatloaf, then top with pesto sauce.
   
   

5. Add the remaining half of the meat mixture on top and seal the edges to form a log shape, ensuring the cheese and pesto are completely enclosed.
   
   

6. For the glaze, combine tomato sauce, ketchup, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Spread half of the glaze mixture over the top of the meatloaf.
   
   

7. Cover the meatloaf with foil and bake for 40-45 minutes. Remove the foil, add the remaining glaze on top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
   
   

8. Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
   
   

Nutritional Value

• Calories: 379
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 10g
  
  

• Protein: 22g
  
  

• Fat: 28g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 10g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 101mg
  
  

• Sodium: 979mg
  
  

• Potassium: 414mg
  
  

• Fiber: 1g
  
  

• Sugar: 3g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 734 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 6mg
  
  

• Calcium: 167mg
  
  

• Iron: 3mg