This keto meatloaf is a hearty and satisfying dish, made with ground meat and veggies. It’s low in carbs but high in flavor!
What I love about this meatloaf is its simplicity. You just mix everything in a bowl, shape it, and bake it. Perfect for busy days! Plus, leftovers make great sandwiches!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a great balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but you may need to add a bit more fat like olive oil to keep it juicy.
Almond Flour: This is a fantastic low-carb alternative to regular breadcrumbs. If you’re allergic or prefer something else, coconut flour can be used, but you’ll need only about 1/4 the amount because it absorbs more moisture.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds flavor and helps bind the meatloaf. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can lend a cheesy flavor as a substitute, though the texture may slightly change.
Worcestershire Sauce: Be sure to check for sugar-free options. If you can’t find it, you can mix soy sauce or coconut aminos with a splash of vinegar as a substitute.
Ketchup: Look for sugar-free ketchup to keep it keto-friendly. You can also make your own by mixing tomato paste with a little vinegar and spices for a quick alternative.
How Do I Avoid Dry Meatloaf?
To ensure your meatloaf stays moist and tender, the key is balancing the ingredients. Mixing in the almond milk and eggs helps bind the mixture without drying it out. Also, the fat content in the 80/20 ground beef helps keep it juicy.
- Don’t overmix; just combine until everything is blended.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness without cutting into the loaf too early. Aim for 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest after baking. This helps redistribute the juices.
With these tips, your meatloaf will be moist and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Keto Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (low-carb alternative to breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (check for sugar-free to keep keto)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup sugar-free ketchup (or tomato sauce)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious keto meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-60 minutes to bake. So, plan for around 1 hour and 15 minutes to enjoy this hearty dish, including prep time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for cooking the meatloaf evenly. Prepare a loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, almond milk, and eggs. Use your hands or a spoon to mix it all together until everything is well blended.
3. Add Extra Flavors:
Next, fold in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture. Give it another good mix so all the flavors combine nicely.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Shape it into a compact loaf, ensuring it fits snugly in the pan. This helps it cook evenly.
5. Add the Ketchup:
Spread the sugar-free ketchup over the top of the meatloaf, covering it evenly. This will give it a sweet, tangy glaze that enhances the flavor.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check if it’s done, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
7. Optional Cheese Topping:
If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it on top of the meatloaf during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to let it melt nicely.
8. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making each slice more flavorful and moist.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Slice the meatloaf and serve it hot. It’s perfect on its own or with your favorite keto-friendly sides!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy keto-friendly meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a leaner option, but make sure to add a bit of olive oil or fat to keep it moist, as turkey can dry out more easily.
Is There a Dairy-Free Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use a plant-based milk instead of almond milk if you prefer.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven, making sure it’s warmed through before serving.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
