Turkey Meatloaf (Spicy Tomato Jam)

This classic comfort food is redone here using ground turkey instead of ground beef, which lowers the fat content of the dish considerably. The spicy tomato jam that tops the finished meatloaf puts a sophisticated twist on this traditional meal. Serve with a fresh green salad or quick-sautéed green beans.

3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil
½ lb shiitake mushrooms
¾ tsp. sea salt
½ tsp. black pepper, freshly ground
2¼ tsp. fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
3 Tbsp. red peppers, roasted, diced
2 lb ground turkey (1 lb each white and dark meat)
1½ cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic
1 Tbsp. fresh sage leaves, chopped
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 medium onion
2 can fire-roasted tomatoes, diced
1 tsp. crushed red pepper
2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
½ cup light-brown sugar
¼ tsp. allspice

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C/160°C fan, Gas Mark 4)F.

In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 Tbsp. oil. Sauté mushrooms until just beginning to brown, about 6 minutes. Season with ½ tsp. each salt and pepper and ¼ tsp. thyme. Continue to brown mushrooms, stirring, about 6 minutes more. Stir in roasted red peppers. Transfer mixture to a plate and let cool.

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix turkey, bread crumbs, garlic, sage, ginger, half the onion, and remaining ¼ tsp. salt and 2 tsp. thyme. Using your hands, pack half the turkey mixture into a 5x9" loaf pan. Top with an even layer of mushroom mixture. Cover with remaining turkey and pat down.

Bake for 40 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium heat, heat remaining oil and cook remaining onion until softened, about 8 minutes. Add tomatoes, crushed red pepper, vinegar, brown sugar, and allspice; simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes.

Remove meatloaf from oven and spread ¾ cup tomato jam on top. Return to oven and bake until meatloaf reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer, about 30 minutes more. Let cool in pan, about 10 minutes. Turn out and slice. Serve with remaining tomato jam on the side.

Makes 8 servings.

Cook's Notes: Compared to beef, a mix of dark and white ground turkey saves 154 calories and 20 grams of fat per serving - without sacrificing moistness.