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Meatloaf is one of those classic comfort foods that many of us grew up with, but if you’re following a keto diet, you might think it’s off-limits. The good news is, with a few tweaks, you can enjoy a delicious keto meatloaf recipe that’s low in carbs but full of flavor. Let’s explore our keto meatloaf recipe and nine alternatives that are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you on track with your keto lifestyle.

Why Choose a Keto Meatloaf?

Keto meatloaf is more than just a low-carb alternative to the traditional dish; it’s a way to enjoy a hearty meal without guilt. Whether you’re new to keto or a long-time follower, this dish offers a satisfying, savory experience that’s perfect for dinner.

The Benefits of Keto Meatloaf

Traditional meatloaf recipes often include breadcrumbs and sugary sauces, which can spike your blood sugar and disrupt ketosis. Our keto meatloaf recipe, however, swaps out these high-carb ingredients for low-carb alternatives, making it a perfect fit for your diet. Plus, it’s packed with protein and healthy fats, keeping you full and energized.

How Keto Meatloaf Fits into Your Low-Carb Lifestyle

Keto meatloaf is versatile and can be paired with a variety of low-carb side dishes, such as cauliflower mash, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or serving at family dinners where everyone can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that supports your low-carb goals.

Keto Meatloaf Recipe: Essential Ingredients

Creating a keto-friendly meatloaf starts with choosing the right ingredients that maintain the dish’s classic flavor and texture while keeping it low in carbs.

Choosing the Right Meat

Ground beef is the traditional choice for meatloaf, but you can also use ground pork, turkey, or a combination of meats to suit your taste. For a richer flavor, opt for meat with a higher fat content, which also helps keep the meatloaf moist.

Low-Carb Binders and Fillers

Instead of breadcrumbs, which are high in carbs, use almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or grated Parmesan cheese as a binder. These ingredients help hold the meatloaf together without adding unnecessary carbs.

Flavor Enhancers and Add-Ins

To enhance the flavor of your keto meatloaf, consider adding ingredients like garlic, onions, fresh herbs, and spices. You can also mix in low-carb vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and texture.

Keto Meatloaf Recipe: Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, gather these essential tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A loaf pan or baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• A meat thermometer
• A spatula

Having the right equipment will make the process of making keto meatloaf smoother and more enjoyable.

Keto Meatloaf Recipes

Here is our delicious keto meatloaf recipe and nine alternatives that will become staples in your kitchen. Each one is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfectly suited to your low-carb lifestyle.

1. Classic Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (no sugar added)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Butter or olive oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this classic keto meatloaf with a side of mashed cauliflower or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.

2. Italian-Style Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce (no sugar added)
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, almond flour, fresh basil, garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well blended.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it on top of the meatloaf during the last 5 minutes of baking to melt.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Italian-style keto meatloaf with a simple green salad or zucchini noodles for an Italian-inspired low-carb dinner.

3. Bacon-Wrapped Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (no sugar added)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 6-8 slices of bacon

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.

Wrapping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Lay the bacon slices over the top of the meatloaf, tucking the ends underneath to fully wrap the loaf.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

This bacon-wrapped keto meatloaf pairs perfectly with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a creamy avocado salad for a satisfying, low-carb meal.

4. Spicy Jalapeño Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (adjust to taste)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (no sugar added)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey or chicken, almond flour, cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic, egg, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this spicy jalapeño keto meatloaf with a side of cauliflower rice or a simple green salad to balance the heat.

5. Cheddar-Stuffed Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or ground pork
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Butter or olive oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or pork, almond flour, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Stuffing and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Press half of the meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared loaf pan.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Press the remaining meat mixture on top, sealing the edges to enclose the cheese.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the cheese to set.

Serving Suggestions

This cheddar-stuffed keto meatloaf is delicious with a side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a cheesy, comforting dinner.

6. Herb and Mushroom Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef or ground pork
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Butter or olive oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or pork, almond flour, chopped mushrooms, parsley, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this herb and mushroom keto meatloaf with a side of mashed cauliflower or roasted root vegetables for a hearty, flavorful meal.

7. Mediterranean Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lamb or ground beef
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (no oil)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb or beef, almond flour, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, egg, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean keto meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a side of Greek salad or roasted vegetables for a bright, flavorful dinner.

8. BBQ Glazed Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (plus more for topping)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Butter or olive oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, BBQ sauce, garlic, egg, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
2. Spread an additional layer of BBQ sauce on top of the meatloaf.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

This BBQ glazed keto meatloaf is delicious with a side of coleslaw or roasted green beans for a comforting, low-carb dinner.

9. Turkey and Spinach Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (no sugar added)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Butter or olive oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, almond flour, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, garlic, egg, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this turkey and spinach keto meatloaf with a side of roasted sweet potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a healthy, balanced meal.

10. Pork and Sage Keto Meatloaf

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp mustard powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Butter or olive oil for greasing the pan

Instructions

Preparing the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan with butter or olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, sage, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shaping and Baking the Meatloaf

1. Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pork and sage keto meatloaf with a side of sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a comforting, low-carb dinner.

Tips for Perfect Keto Meatloaf

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t over mix the meat: Over mixing can make the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix just until all the ingredients are combined.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through but not overdone, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Customizing Your Keto Meatloaf

Feel free to get creative with these keto meatloaf recipes. You can mix and match ingredients, add different spices, or even experiment with different meats to suit your taste.

Conclusion

Keto meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle. With these 10 recipes, you have plenty of options to keep your meals exciting and flavorful. Whether you prefer a classic meatloaf or something with a bit of a twist, these keto meatloaf recipes are sure to become favorites in your kitchen. Enjoy the process of making these dishes and savor the comfort of a hearty, low-carb meal.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze keto meatloaf?

Yes, keto meatloaf freezes very well. Wrap individual slices or the whole meatloaf in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. How should I store leftover keto meatloaf?

Store leftover keto meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

3. Can I use other binders instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can use crushed pork rinds, flaxseed meal, or even grated cheese as a binder in keto meatloaf recipes.

4. What can I serve with keto meatloaf?

Keto meatloaf pairs well with a variety of low-carb sides like mashed cauliflower, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

5. Can I make keto meatloaf without eggs?

Yes, you can use a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute if you’re avoiding eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit until thickened, and use it as a replacement for one egg.