Name: Whole30 Tomato Basil Turkey Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs ground turkey; 1/2 cup almond flour; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 cup Whole30-compliant crushed tomatoes or marinara; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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This Whole30 tomato basil turkey meatloaf is a clean, flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. I use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef and infuse it with fresh basil and a rich tomato glaze that’s completely Whole30-compliant. It’s moist, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a satisfying main dish without any grains, dairy, or sugar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it proves that comfort food can still be healthy. The turkey keeps it light, but the basil and garlic give it bold flavor, while the tomato-based topping adds a touch of tangy richness. It’s easy to prep, and I can enjoy leftovers all week. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and fits right into a Whole30 or paleo lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground turkey
Almond flour (as a binder instead of breadcrumbs)
Eggs
Fresh basil, chopped
Garlic, minced
Onion, finely chopped
Tomato paste
Whole30-compliant crushed tomatoes or marinara
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil (for sautéing)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F and line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
I sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until soft, which helps boost the flavor of the meatloaf.
In a large bowl, I mix the ground turkey, almond flour, eggs, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped basil, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
I shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan.
For the glaze, I mix tomato paste with crushed tomatoes and spoon it over the top of the meatloaf.
I bake the meatloaf for about 45–55 minutes, until it’s cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
I let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. It takes me around 15 minutes to prep and 50 minutes to bake, so it’s ready in just over an hour including resting time.

Variations

I sometimes swap the turkey for ground chicken. If I want a spicier version, I add crushed red pepper flakes or use fire-roasted tomatoes in the glaze. For an herbier flavor, I add chopped fresh oregano or thyme along with the basil.

storage/reheating

I store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place a slice on a skillet with a splash of water and cover it to warm through gently, or I use the microwave for a quicker option. This meatloaf also freezes well—just wrap slices individually and reheat them straight from the freezer.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf without almond flour?

Yes, I can use ground flaxseed or coconut flour in small amounts, but I’ve found almond flour gives the best texture.

Is this meatloaf paleo as well as Whole30?

Yes, it fits into both paleo and Whole30 plans since it contains no grains, dairy, or added sugars.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I often prep the meat mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge, then bake it when I’m ready to eat.

What should I serve with this meatloaf?

I like to pair it with mashed cauliflower, roasted sweet potatoes, or a simple green salad to keep the meal Whole30-friendly.

How do I keep turkey meatloaf from drying out?

I make sure not to overmix the meat and always let it rest after baking. Using sautéed onions and a tomato glaze also helps lock in moisture.

Conclusion

This Whole30 tomato basil turkey meatloaf is one of my go-to meals when I want something clean, comforting, and easy to make. It’s full of flavor, perfect for meal prep, and loved even by those not following Whole30. I find it’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish without any of the guilt.

Whole30 Tomato Basil Turkey Meatloaf