This keto meatloaf is a flavorful and juicy alternative to traditional meatloaf. Almond flour and Parmesan cheese enhance its taste and help retain moisture, while a glaze of unsweetened ketchup adds a tangy finish. It’s an easy-to-make dish that the whole family will enjoy.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85% lean, 15% fat)
- ½ cup blanched, super fine almond flour
- ½ cup dry-grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened ketchup
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme until well combined.
- Add the ground beef, almond flour, and Parmesan cheese to the bowl. Gently mix with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet. For a more uniform shape, you can use an 8×4-inch loaf pan lined with plastic wrap to mold the meat mixture, then transfer it to the baking sheet.
- Brush the top of the meatloaf with the unsweetened ketchup, spreading it evenly to create a glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful meatloaf.
Nutrients Per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
Why Choose Keto Meatloaf?
One of the biggest challenges people face when following a ketogenic diet is finding recipes that are both satisfying and low in carbohydrates. Many traditional comfort foods, including meatloaf, rely on ingredients like breadcrumbs and sugary sauces, making them unsuitable for a keto-friendly meal plan. This keto meatloaf recipe solves that problem by using keto-approved substitutes that maintain the texture and taste of traditional meatloaf while keeping the carb count low. Another reason to choose keto meatloaf is its high protein and fat content, which aligns perfectly with the macronutrient goals of a ketogenic diet. The addition of Parmesan cheese and almond flour enhances the flavor while providing healthy fats that help with satiety. This makes keto meatloaf a perfect meal option for those who want to feel full and satisfied without spiking their blood sugar levels.
The Health Benefits of Keto Meatloaf
Keto meatloaf is more than just a tasty meal, it also offers a variety of health benefits. Since it is made with high-quality protein sources like ground beef and Parmesan cheese, it provides essential amino acids that support muscle growth and overall health. Additionally, the use of almond flour instead of breadcrumbs reduces the overall carbohydrate content, making it a great option for individuals managing their blood sugar levels. Some of the key health benefits of keto meatloaf include:
- Supports Weight Loss: The high protein and fat content in this dish can help promote feelings of fullness, reducing overall calorie intake and aiding in weight loss.
- Helps Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels: By eliminating high-carb ingredients, this recipe helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, making it ideal for those with diabetes or insulin resistance.
- Promotes Heart Health: Almond flour and Parmesan cheese contain heart-healthy fats that support cardiovascular health.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Since it does not contain breadcrumbs, this meatloaf is a great choice for individuals who follow a gluten-free diet.
Best Tips for Making the Perfect Keto Meatloaf
To ensure your keto meatloaf turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Use High-Fat Ground Beef: Opt for 85% lean, 15% fat ground beef for the juiciest and most flavorful meatloaf.
- Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the ingredients can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Let it Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing ensures that the juices are redistributed, preventing it from drying out.
- Choose Sugar-Free Ketchup: Many commercial ketchups contain added sugars, so opt for a sugar-free variety to keep the carb count low.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the meatloaf is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Serving Suggestions for Keto Meatloaf
Keto meatloaf is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of keto-friendly side dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Some great side dish options include:
- Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that pairs beautifully with meatloaf.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Options like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add color and nutrition to your plate.
- Zucchini Noodles: These make a great substitute for traditional pasta and can be topped with a keto-friendly sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Roasted Mushrooms: A rich and flavorful side that complements the savory taste of the meatloaf.
How to Store and Reheat Keto Meatloaf
If you have leftovers, keto meatloaf is easy to store and reheat. Simply follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Store the meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Conclusion
Keto meatloaf is a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal that allows you to enjoy a classic comfort food without straying from your low-carb lifestyle. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, this recipe is perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet or looking for a gluten-free, low-carb alternative to traditional meatloaf. By using simple ingredient swaps like almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and sugar-free ketchup for the glaze, you can create a meatloaf that is just as flavorful and juicy as the original. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or preparing a hearty dinner for your family, keto meatloaf is sure to be a hit.