This Keto Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It’s made with ground meat, veggies, and spices, all without the carbs. Perfect for anyone following a low-carb diet!
Honestly, who knew meatloaf could be this fun? I love adding cheese on top for a melty finish. It’s also great for lunch leftovers—if there’s any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer 80% lean for a good balance of flavor and moisture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but be aware it might be drier.
Almond Flour: This low-carb alternative acts as a binder. If you’re allergic to nuts, try using coconut flour, but use less—about 1/4 cup since it absorbs more moisture.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk keeps things low-carb. If you don’t have it, any unsweetened plant milk or regular milk works too.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds flavor and helps bind the meatloaf. You can use aged cheddar or another hard cheese if you prefer.
Sugar-Free Ketchup: Look for brands with no added sugars. You can make your own with tomato paste, vinegar, and sweetener if you’re feeling adventurous!
How Do I Mix the Meatloaf Without Overworking It?
Mixing meatloaf is key. You want to blend everything without making it tough. Here’s how:
- Use your hands or a big wooden spoon for mixing. It’s gentler than an electric mixer.
- Combine just until the ingredients are mixed. Overmixing can make your meatloaf dense. Think of a light touch!
- If using ground turkey or chicken, ensure it’s well-integrated but still fluffy—this keeps it moist.
Taking care during mixing makes a big difference in texture. Keep it light, and you’ll have a lovely meatloaf!
How to Make Keto Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (low-carb binder alternative)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (check sugar content)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup sugar-free ketchup or homemade low-carb tomato sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Keto Meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prep, with 60-70 minutes of baking time. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. In total, set aside about 1.5 hours for this satisfying dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your meatloaf is ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, almond milk, eggs, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently but thoroughly. You want all the flavors to come together without over-mixing, which can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan, or shape it carefully by hand into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure it’s fairly even so it cooks uniformly.
4. Add the Topping:
Spread the sugar-free ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a lovely glaze as it bakes!
5. Bake in the Oven:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy to ensure it’s fully cooked.
6. Rest Before Slicing:
Once done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep it moist and makes slicing easier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with some more fresh parsley if you like, and serve warm. This keto-friendly meatloaf pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy your healthy meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey may be a bit drier, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or a splash of broth!
How Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Cool completely, then store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze meatloaf slices for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Sure! Finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini can be added for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to dice them small and consider reducing the amount of almond flour slightly to accommodate the extra moisture.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Meatloaf?
The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave for a quicker method, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.
