This Keto Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic! Made with ground meat, eggs, and low-carb veggies, it’s packed with flavor without the carbs. Perfect for dinner!
It’s truly a family favorite, and the leftovers are even better the next day. Who doesn’t love a meal that warms up nicely? Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juiciness. If you want something leaner, 90/10 works but may be drier. Ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative for a lighter option.
Almond Flour: This is a great low-carb binder. If you have nut allergies, you can substitute it with ground flaxseed or sunflower seed flour, though the texture may differ slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Unsweetened Ketchup: Using sugar-free ketchup keeps the dish keto-friendly. If you can’t find it, look for homemade recipes or mix canned tomato paste with vinegar and your favorite low-carb sweetener.
How Can I Get My Meatloaf to Stay Tender?
Keeping a meatloaf tender can be tricky, but it’s all about the balance. When mixing the ingredients, combine everything just until mixed. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Also, using eggs helps bind while keeping moisture.
- Use a loaf pan for a uniform shape or a baking sheet for a crusty exterior.
- Let it rest after baking; this allows juices to redistribute and keeps it juicy when sliced.
- Don’t skip the glaze—it adds moisture and flavor that enhances the entire dish.
How to Make Keto Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- 1/2 cup almond flour (low-carb binder)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup (or sugar-free ketchup)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Keto-Friendly Ketchup Glaze:
- 1/3 cup sugar-free ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Sweetener to taste (erythritol or monk fruit sweetener, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Keto Meatloaf recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 50-60 minutes to bake. Make sure to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing, bringing the total time to about 1 hour and 20 minutes. This allows all the flavors to set beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf will cook uniformly. While it warms up, you can prepare the meatloaf mix.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—that can make your meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now, shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a lightly greased loaf pan. This helps it cook evenly and avoid sticking.
4. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar-free ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sweetener (if you’re using it) to create the glaze. This will add a lovely tangy flavor.
5. Glaze the Meatloaf:
Spread about half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and moisture during cooking.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake it for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). This is key to knowing when it’s done.
7. Add More Glaze:
About halfway through baking (around 25-30 minutes), spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf. This keeps the meatloaf moist and tasty!
8. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the slices hold together better when you cut them.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for an extra pop of flavor and color. Enjoy your delicious, comforting Keto Meatloaf!
This Keto Meatloaf is not only full of flavor but also a perfect option for your low-carb meals. It’s satisfying and gives you that homey comfort food vibe without the carbs. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner option but may lead to a slightly drier meatloaf. To keep it moist, consider adding a little extra olive oil or an extra egg to the mixture.
What Should I Serve With Keto Meatloaf?
This Keto Meatloaf pairs excellently with a variety of low-carb sides! You could serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even cauliflower mash for a complete meal that won’t break your carb count.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or slice and warm it in a pan on the stove over low heat.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked or baked meatloaf. If freezing it unbaked, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, it can go straight from the freezer to the oven—just allow extra cooking time!
