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The smell of meatloaf baking in the oven is comforting and nostalgic. But, traditional meatloaf recipes don’t fit a keto diet because of the carbs. We’ve made a keto meatloaf recipe that’s full of flavor without the carbs.
This keto meatloaf is juicy and tender, full of savory goodness. It uses almond flour and parmesan cheese to keep it moist. A mix of aromatic seasonings and a sugar-free ketchup glaze make it even better. It’s perfect for anyone on a keto diet, whether you’re new or experienced.
Table of Contents
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the ultimate keto meatloaf. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to tips for the best texture and flavor. So, put on your apron and let’s start making delicious low carb comfort food!
Key Takeaways
- Almond flour and parmesan cheese are used to bind the meatloaf and retain juices, adding flavor without the carbs.
- Lean ground beef (85/15) is recommended for the best texture and flavor, avoiding excessive greasiness or dryness.
- A blend of seasonings, including salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme, enhance the savory taste.
- Sugar-free ketchup, like Primal Kitchen brand, is used for the glaze to add a subtle sweetness without the added carbs.
- Baking the meatloaf at 350°F for 50-60 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F ensures juiciness and safety.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re searching for a tasty low carb comfort food, this keto meatloaf is perfect. It’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. It’s great for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Juicy and Flavorful
This gluten-free meatloaf combines ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and spices. It uses 90% lean/10% fat ground beef for a moist texture. Baked at 350°F (180°C) for an hour, it reaches 160°F in the center, keeping all flavors inside.
Easy to Make
This keto meatloaf is easy to prepare. It takes just 10 minutes to prep and an hour to bake. You can also store leftovers for up to a week or freeze for 6 months, perfect for meal prep.
Perfect Comfort Food
This low carb comfort food is great for anyone, especially those on a keto diet. Each serving has 2.5g of net carbs, 13.5g of fat, and 17.1g of protein. It’s a balanced and satisfying meal with comforting flavors and a hearty texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a tasty keto meatloaf, you’ll need certain ingredients. This recipe uses almond flour to keep carbs low. It’s perfect for a comforting meal without too many carbs. Let’s look at what you’ll need:
Ground Beef
The base of this meatloaf is 2 pounds of lean ground beef (85/15). It’s a good choice for a keto diet because it’s high in fat and protein. Each serving has about 200g/8oz of meat.
Almond Flour
This recipe uses almond flour instead of breadcrumbs. It’s low in carbs, with only 4g. This makes the meatloaf great for diets like gluten-free, Paleo, and Whole30.
Parmesan Cheese
Grated parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor. It also adds fat and protein. This makes the meatloaf taste even better.
Eggs and Seasonings
Eggs help the meatloaf stay together. The recipe also includes kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. These spices make the meatloaf flavorful and low in carbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make a tasty keto meatloaf with just 3.4 grams of net carbs and 297 calories per serving. This recipe makes 10 servings, great for family dinners or meal prep.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of 80/20 ground beef, crushed pork rinds, grated parmesan cheese, and your preferred seasonings. Mix until just combined, avoiding over-mixing to keep the texture right.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring it is evenly formed.
- Brush the top of the meatloaf with sugar-free ketchup, which has only 1 carb per tablespoon. It’s a good low-carb choice compared to regular ketchup.
- Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes, then remove it from the oven and add more sugar-free ketchup on top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F (68°C). Use a food thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through.
Once the keto meatloaf is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf.
Pro tip: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding bacon strips on top of the meatloaf before baking.
This keto meatloaf recipe is not only low in carbs but also gluten-free, grain-free, nut-free, coconut-free, egg-free, and sugar-free. It’s suitable for various dietary restrictions. When stored properly in the refrigerator, the meatloaf will keep for 3-4 days, or up to 3 months in the freezer.
Tips for Making the Best Keto Meatloaf
Follow these keto meatloaf tips to make a juicy, flavorful dish every time. A few simple techniques will help you create a keto meatloaf that’s both satisfying and low in carbs.
Handle the Mixture Lightly
When mixing your keto meatloaf ingredients, handle the mixture gently. Overmixing can make the meat tough and dense. Mix the ground beef, almond flour, eggs, and seasonings lightly for a tender result.
Choose the Right Ground Beef
Choosing the right ground beef is key for a great keto meatloaf. Look for a lean-to-fat ratio of 85/15. This balance ensures your meatloaf is moist and flavorful without being greasy.
| Ingredient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 33.9g | 68% |
| Carbohydrates | 2.6g | 1% |
| Fat | 49g | 44% |
Bake on a Sheet Pan
Bake your keto meatloaf on a foil-lined sheet pan instead of a loaf pan. This method helps the meatloaf cook evenly and prevents it from becoming greasy. The heat circulates better, making the exterior crispy and the inside juicy.
Let It Rest Before Slicing
After baking your meatloaf to 160°F, let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This step ensures the juices are evenly distributed, making each slice moist and flavorful. Slicing too soon can make the meat dry.
By following these simple keto meatloaf techniques, you’ll be able to create a delicious, low-carb meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Keto Meatloaf Glazing Options
A delicious keto meatloaf needs a great glaze. A sugar-free glaze adds flavor and keeps the meatloaf moist. Let’s look at some keto-friendly glaze options to elevate your dish.
Sugar-Free Ketchup Glaze
Ketchup glaze is a favorite for meatloaf. But regular ketchup has too much sugar for a keto diet. Luckily, there are sugar-free ketchups that work well. Mix it with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and a brown sugar substitute for a tasty glaze.
Enhancing Flavor with Glaze
There are ways to make your keto meatloaf even better. Try adding chopped herbs like parsley or thyme to the glaze for a fresh taste. You can also play with spices and seasonings to match your taste. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a smoky or spicy touch.
| Glaze Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sugar-Free Ketchup | 1/2 cup |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Brown Sugar Substitute | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1/2 tsp |
Apply the glaze in the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This way, the glaze caramelizes and forms a tasty crust. Brushing it on too soon can make it dark and bitter.
With a sugar-free glaze and some flavor enhancers, you can make a keto meatloaf everyone will enjoy. Feel free to experiment and find the perfect glaze for your family.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Looking for the perfect sides for your keto meatloaf? We’ve got you covered. From classic comfort foods to lighter options, these keto side dishes will elevate your low-carb dinner. They’re sure to impress your family and keep you on track with your diet.
Comfort Food Pairings
Craving comfort food? Serve your keto meatloaf with creamy mashed cauliflower. It’s a low-carb twist on mashed potatoes that’s just as comforting. For an extra treat, add bacon, cheddar, and chives to your cauliflower.
Creamed spinach is another rich and creamy option. It adds a velvety texture to your meal.
Lighter Side Options
Want something lighter? Try a fresh arugula salad with your meatloaf. The peppery greens balance out the meat’s richness. For a cool crunch, go for a creamy cucumber salad.
Green beans or steamed broccoli are also great choices. They add color and nutrition to your meal.
| Side Dish | Preparation Time | Carb Content |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Cauliflower | 25 minutes | 5g per serving |
| Creamed Spinach | 20 minutes | 3g per serving |
| Arugula Salad | 10 minutes | 2g per serving |
| Sautéed Green Beans | 15 minutes | 4g per serving |
Choose any of these sides, and your keto meatloaf will shine. These delicious pairings make for a balanced, satisfying meal. Your family will love it, and you’ll stay on track with your low-carb diet.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover keto meatloaf is a treat. The flavors blend together, making each bite a joy. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating keto meatloaf is easy. You can microwave a slice for a minute or two. Check the temperature to make sure it’s 165°F (74°C). This is the USDA’s recommended temperature.
For a crispy outside, pan-fry the slices in olive oil. This method takes longer but is worth it. For bigger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. Wrap it in foil to keep it moist.
Leftover keto meatloaf is great for a cold lunch. Serve it with Dijon mustard, sriracha mayo, and fresh veggies. Add quick pickles for a protein-rich meal that lasts all day.
Pro Tip: When reheating frozen meatloaf, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This ensures even heating and keeps the meatloaf moist.
Variations and Substitutions
This keto meatloaf recipe is super versatile. You can make it your own by changing up the flavors or ingredients. Here are some ideas for keto meatloaf variations and low carb meatloaf substitutions:
Different Spice Combinations
Try new spice mixes to make your meatloaf taste amazing. Add smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, or oregano for a unique flavor. You can also add finely chopped veggies like onions, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrition and texture.
Breadcrumb Alternatives
This recipe uses almond flour instead of breadcrumbs. But you can also use crushed pork rinds or grated Parmesan cheese. These options keep the meatloaf keto-friendly and add flavor and texture.
For a dairy-free meatloaf, just skip the Parmesan cheese and add more almond flour. You can also use ground turkey for a leaner meatloaf. Just pick ground turkey with 85% lean and 15% fat for the best taste.
| Ingredient | Amount | Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 2 pounds (90% lean, 10% fat) | Ground Turkey (85% lean, 15% fat) |
| Almond Flour | 1 cup | Crushed Pork Rinds or Grated Parmesan Cheese |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup | Omit for dairy-free version |
| Sugar-Free Ketchup | 1/4 cup | Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce or Hot Sauce |
With these keto meatloaf variations and low carb meatloaf substitutions, you can make a tasty meal that fits your keto diet. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own!
Conclusion
This easy low carb meatloaf recipe is perfect for anyone on a keto diet. It uses almond flour and sugar-free ketchup. This makes a delicious meal that fits well with a low-carb lifestyle.
The recipe is not only simple but also makes a juicy and tasty dish. Your taste buds will love it.
There are tips to make the perfect meatloaf. These include handling the mixture gently and choosing the right ground beef. Baking on a sheet pan also helps.
You can also try different glazes and sides. This lets you customize the dish to your liking.
This meatloaf recipe is great for meal prep or a cozy dinner. It’s easy to store and reheat. So, get your ingredients ready and preheat your oven. Enjoy the best keto meatloaf recipe!
FAQ
Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour in this keto meatloaf recipe?
No, don’t swap coconut flour for almond flour. Coconut flour soaks up a lot of liquid. For the best taste, use blanched almond flour. Or, try crushed pork rinds for a nut-free option.
Is it possible to make this keto meatloaf recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can make it dairy-free by skipping the parmesan cheese. Add an extra egg or 1/4 cup of beef broth to help it stick together. It might not be as firm, but it will still be tasty.
Can I prepare keto meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can make the meatloaf mix up to 24 hours before. Just cover it and chill it in the fridge. If it’s cold, it might take a bit longer to cook.
How long does leftover keto meatloaf last in the refrigerator?
Leftover meatloaf stays good in the fridge for 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container. Reheat it in the microwave or pan-fry for a crispy top.
Can I freeze keto meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F until warm.
Is this keto meatloaf recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, it’s gluten-free because it uses almond flour instead of breadcrumbs. Always check your ingredients for gluten-free certification if you’re very sensitive.
