Cheesy Cheddar & Mushroom Stuffed BBQ Turkey Meatloaf Minis

These crazy delicious, cheesy BBQ turkey mini meatloaves are stuffed with cheddar, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers and so much amazing flavor.  Easy weeknight recipe for when the comfort-food mood strikes!

You say comfort-food and my mind goes meatloaf. That and some interesting, yet hella delicious, creamed tuna concoction over toast we had growing up; my family’s version of shit on a shingle is what I’ve been told. We all have one or two of those, what some would consider weird, nostalgic foods from our childhood. But meatloaf, talk about a classic staple that’s aroma has filled most of childhood homes and graced our parent’s tables. Classic comfort-food 101 to say the least.

Meatloaf is still a staple in our house, and it’s probably one of the most requested meals by my husband. Some of the many reasons I love to make meatloaf is because it’s easy, so not fussy and clean up is a breeze. All it takes is a bowl, your hands (if you choose to get down and dirty) and a parchment lined baking sheet pan or two.

Why Mini Loaves?

I prefer a mini style of meatloaf. They’re easily portioned, take less time to bake and are great for making extra to put back for another time. But, if you’re going for a true classic loaf style, by all means loaf it up. Just be sure to account for the longer baking time.

If you do make a larger loaf, how will you know when it’s done? Check the temp! Make sure it registers at 160 degrees. My tried and true instant read thermapen is literally my right hand man in the kitchen. It’s easy to use, lightening fast, versatile (breads, candy, grilling, baking, etc.), a little expensive but worth it (IMO), and I’ve had it for I don’t even know how long. Not to mention it’s rated #1 in America’s Test Kitchen/Cooks Illustrated. If you cook a lot, are frustrated with your dial thermomter or tired of waiting for your sloth-like insta read, then I’d consider checking out the thermapen.

Cheesy BBQ Turkey Meatloaf Components

This version is turned up a notch to give it a little something extra; the veggies are sauteed to bring out more of their natural flavor, the BBQ sauce gives it a sweet tangy flavor, while the cheese gets all kinds of creamy and melty – who doesn’t love that!

Here’s what you will need:

• EVOO
• Bell peppers
• Yellow onion
• Mushrooms
• Garlic
• Ground turkey
• Your fav BBQ sauce (I used a Memphis style sweet and smokey style)
• Panko
• Egg
• Paprika and Chipotle Powder
• Salt and Pepper
• Cheddar Cheese

Meatloaf Make-Ahead Ideas:

• Mince and saute the veggies and measure out dried ingredients ahead of time. So when ready to cook, mixing all the ingreds will be a breeze.
• Completely prepare and assemble the meatloaf a day or two in advance, so all you have to do is pop em in the oven.
• Prepare a large batch of the meatloaf mixture. Shape into mini loaves, individually wrap them tightly with saran and place in a freezer safe container. When ready to use, thaw the wrapped loaves in the fridge overnight. When thawed, unwrap the loaves and bake until internal temp reaches 160 degrees.

Trust me and plan to make this cheesy BBQ turkey meatloaf recipe. It’s sure to be a keeper in your fav recipe file! Enjoy!

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