Turkey Loaf with Balsamic Honey Mustard
This Turkey Loaf with Balsamic Honey Mustard is a mouthwatering dish that blends the savory flavors of ground turkey with a sweet and tangy glaze made from honey, Dijon mustard, and balsamic vinegar. Perfectly seasoned with fresh sage and complemented by the subtle richness of cooked brown rice, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors that will satisfy your hunger and taste buds.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Recipe Category
- Poultry
- Brown Rice
- Meat
- Oven Baked
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground turkey | 1 1/2 lbs |
| Cooked brown rice | 3/4 cup |
| Onion (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh sage (chopped) | 2 1/2 tbsp |
| Chicken bouillon granules | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/8 tsp |
| Honey | 3 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 375.3 kcal |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 164.6 mg |
| Sodium | 304 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 24.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugar | 14.2 g |
| Protein | 36.6 g |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that it is hot enough to cook the turkey loaf evenly, giving it a golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside moist. -
Prepare the Loaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, finely chopped onion, egg, milk, fresh chopped sage, chicken bouillon granules, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure everything is well distributed. The rice will add a nice texture to the loaf, while the sage infuses the mixture with a wonderful earthy flavor. -
Add Ground Turkey
Add the ground turkey to the bowl. Using your hands (or a spatula if you prefer), gently mix the turkey with the rice mixture until everything is evenly combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the loaf dense. The turkey should be fully integrated with the rice and seasonings. -
Shape the Loaf
Transfer the turkey mixture into a greased loaf pan, pressing it down slightly to form an even shape. Make sure the top is smooth and level, which will help it cook uniformly. -
Make the Balsamic Honey Mustard Glaze
In a small bowl, combine the honey, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Whisk them together until smooth, creating a thick yet pourable glaze. This glaze will bring a perfect balance of sweetness and tang to the turkey loaf. -
Bake the Turkey Loaf
Spoon half of the prepared honey mustard glaze over the top of the turkey loaf. Spread it out evenly so that the surface is well covered. Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. -
Add the Remaining Glaze
After 30 minutes, remove the loaf from the oven and spoon the remaining glaze over the top. Return the loaf to the oven and continue baking for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the turkey loaf is cooked through. You can test for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the loaf; it should read at least 165°F (74°C). -
Let the Loaf Rest
Once the loaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the loaf easier to slice and more flavorful. -
Slice and Serve
After the resting time, slice the turkey loaf into thick, hearty pieces. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or any side dish of your choice. The savory turkey paired with the sweet and tangy glaze makes for a meal that will leave everyone coming back for more.
Tips for Success:
- Customizing the Glaze: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, you can increase the honey to 4 tablespoons. Alternatively, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the glaze a nice spicy kick.
- Leftovers: Turkey loaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also makes great leftovers for sandwiches or salads the next day.
- Rice Substitute: If you’re not a fan of brown rice, white rice, quinoa, or couscous can also work as great alternatives, though they may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
This Turkey Loaf with Balsamic Honey Mustard is a wholesome and satisfying meal that is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. With a delicious balance of savory turkey and a rich, tangy glaze, this dish is sure to become a new favorite on your dinner table. Whether served with a side of vegetables or a hearty salad, it delivers both comfort and flavor in every bite.
