This Dairy-Free Meatloaf is a hearty dish that everyone will love! Made with ground meat, tasty spices, and no dairy, it stays moist and full of flavor.
Cooking meatloaf always reminds me of family dinners. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans—it’s a comforting meal that brings smiles all around! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives a rich flavor, but you can mix it with ground pork for extra moisture. For a meat-free option, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute!
Dairy-Free Milk: I recommend almond milk or oat milk, both great for keeping it creamy. If you’re nut-free, soy or coconut milk work too. Just choose what fits your diet!
Dairy-Free Breadcrumbs: These are perfect for binding! You can make your own by blending stale bread or use any gluten-free version available. I’ve also found crushed gluten-free crackers to be a fun option.
Ketchup: Ketchup adds a slight sweetness and tang. If you’re out, try using BBQ sauce or a homemade mix with tomatoes, vinegar, and a dash of sugar. It’s a great way to customize the flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Meatloaf is Moist and Flavorful?
The key to a moist meatloaf lies in the mixing technique and added ingredients. Be sure to soak the breadcrumbs in the dairy-free milk to keep the mixture from drying out as it bakes. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix all ingredients gently. Overmixing can make it tough.
- Adding onions and garlic enriches the flavor. Feel free to sauté them first for a deeper taste.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer—aim for 160°F (71°C). This keeps the meatloaf juicy!
Let it rest before slicing; this helps retain moisture. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this comforting meal!
Dairy-Free Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and ground pork)
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup dairy-free breadcrumbs (gluten-free if preferred)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk (such as almond milk or oat milk)
- 1/4 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (ensure gluten-free and vegan if needed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 1 hour to cook in the oven. After baking, allow for 10 minutes of resting time before slicing. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour and 25 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your meatloaf bakes evenly and thoroughly.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, mix the dairy-free milk with the breadcrumbs and let it soak for about 5 minutes. This helps to keep the meatloaf moist during baking.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground beef (or mixed meat), soaked breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape and Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the meat mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Press it down evenly to shape it. Spread a layer of ketchup on top to add flavor and moisture while it bakes.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is firm to the touch.
6. Rest and Slice:
Once baked, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, making it easier to slice.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as steamed green beans or creamy mashed potatoes, for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your delicious, hearty, and dairy-free meatloaf!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat used.
What Can I Use Instead of Dairy-Free Milk?
If you don’t have dairy-free milk on hand, you can use chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor. Coconut milk is also a great alternative, just be mindful of its sweetness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice it and warm it gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to maintain moisture.
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking per the instructions. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf in slices for easy meals!
