Thanksgiving Alternative: Turkey Meat Loaf with Southwest Stuffing

For most cooks, Thanksgiving means prepping and cooking a whole turkey – which takes some work to get right.

If you are not bound by tradition and are looking for an easy turke y and stuffing recipe for a small gathering – this recipe has got you covered because it offers the traditional turkey and stuffing, but with an easier and more forgiving preparation.

The stuffing combines a supermarket box mix with fresh ingredients to form the delicious surprise hidden in the center.

The actual turkey loaf is as simple as it gets with just seasoning, eggs and breadcrumbs. Cooking it the loaf with a mound of stuffing in the middle results in tender and moist slices, fitting for a Thanksgiving centerpiece.

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Ingredients

4 Tbs Butter unsalted
1 medium Onion diced
1 Jalapeño seeded, diced
1 tsp Cumin
2 tsp Chili Powder
1½ C Chicken or Turkey Broth
1 box (6 oz) Stuffing Mix
3 lbs Ground Turkey (85/15)
2 Eggs
1/2 C Bread Crumbs

DESERT: 6 to 8 SERVINGS

Southwest Box Stuffing

In large pan or skillet over medium heat, melt butter, then sauté onion and jalapeño until soft, three to four minutes. Mix in seasoning, toast for a minute or two.

Add broth, bring to a boil and stir in stuffing mix. Cover, remove from heat and let rest five minutes. Set aside and let cool.

Turkey Meat Loaf

In a large bowl, mix together meat, eggs and bread crumbs until well incorporated.

In a prepared 9 x13 pan, form turkey into a bottom layer with a well. Place stuffing in well then enclose stuffing into center with remaining meat.

Bake loaf in a preheated 375° oven for one hour or until center reaches cooked through and meat reaches 165°. Remove and let rest 15 minutes. Slice and serve.