How to Make an Amazing Meatloaf without Dairy – Easy Recipe

Food is not just about satisfying our hunger – it’s about making sure that we provide the right nutrients to our body. As a nutritionist and food blogger, I strongly believe that healthy eating should never be boring. That’s why I am excited to share with you my recipe for meatloaf – a hearty meal that is both delicious and nutritious.

What makes this recipe special is that it is dairy-free and gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. Meatloaf is typically made with milk, bread crumbs, and ketchup, but in this recipe, we use non-dairy substitutes to make it suitable for people with lactose intolerance or those who just want to avoid dairy. Additionally, we use rolled oats instead of bread crumbs to make it gluten-free.

This recipe also uses lean ground beef as the base protein source. We want to ensure that this meatloaf is as healthy as it is tasty by using 90% lean ground beef instead of regular ground beef which often has more unhealthy saturated fats.

My meatloaf recipe contains all the classic flavors such as onions, garlic powder, and ketchup, with new twists like crispy bacon bits for added texture. By using these substitutions and variations, you can enjoy your meatloaf while maintaining a healthy diet.

I am confident that after trying this dairy-free and gluten-free meatloaf recipe once, you will never go back to your old recipe again! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Meatloaf - Dairy Free
Meatloaf – Dairy Free

I’m here to tell you why you’ll fall head over heels for this dairy-free meatloaf recipe.

Firstly, it’s made with lean ground beef, which means it’s a healthier alternative to traditional meatloaf recipes that often use fattier cuts of meat. Plus, there’s no need to worry about any dairy ingredients in this recipe – this will please anyone who’s lactose intolerant or simply wants to avoid dairy for dietary reasons.

Secondly, this gluten-free meatloaf is packed with flavor. The secret ingredient? Rolled oats. They work wonders to bind the ingredients together and bring a wonderfully nutty taste to the party. The spices used are simple, yet effective: salt and pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.

Thirdly, this meatloaf is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different seasonings or veggies like carrots and mushrooms. You can also substitute the lean beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

Lastly, this dish is fabulous served hot out of the oven accompanied by rich mashed potatoes and green beans. It’s a classic meatloaf meal that everyone adores – without any risk of consuming gluten, dairy or other allergenic ingredients.

So whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a family dinner that’s both easy and delicious, my dairy-free and gluten-free meatloaf recipe ticks all the boxes. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredient List

 A slice of pure, hearty goodness - my dairy-free meatloaf!
A slice of pure, hearty goodness – my dairy-free meatloaf!

Here’s everything you need to make the best dairy-free meatloaf recipe you’ll ever try. This meatloaf is packed full of flavor and is perfect for anyone with dietary restrictions. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free and free from eggs. You’ll need 2 pounds of lean ground beef (90% lean), incidentally, you can also use ground turkey, ground chicken, or a combination of any of those for this recipe.

Meatloaf Ingredients 1

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup ketchup + 1/4 cup gluten-free ketchup
  • 3/4 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Meatloaf Ingredients 2

  • 2 cups gluten-free bread crumbs (or quick-cooking oats)
  • 1/2 cup non-dairy milk
  • In place of egg: Use either flax eggs, chia eggs, or applesauce as an egg replacer.

Don’t forget that the use of dairy-free milk will help keep the meatloaf together, preventing it from falling apart during cooking. Make sure to pick a type of non-dairy milk that fits with your dietary restrictions such as almond milk or oat milk.

The Recipe How-To

 A comforting classic made healthier, without the dairy!
A comforting classic made healthier, without the dairy!

Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to make this delicious Meatloaf – Dairy Free Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef (90% beef, 10% fat)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3/4 cup gluten-free rolled oats
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (gluten-free and dairy-free)
  • 1/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk of your choice)
  • 1 large egg (or egg substitute for an egg-free option)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, salt, black pepper, rolled oats, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ketchup, almond milk, and egg.

  3. Using your hands or a wooden spoon, mix until all ingredients are evenly combined.

  4. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a loaf. Arrange bacon slices on top (optional).

  5. Bake in preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

  6. Remove from oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into serving portions.

  7. Serve this savory meatloaf with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Try out this recipe and enjoy the flavors of juicy beef with mouthwatering seasonings!

Substitutions and Variations

 Get ready for a taste explosion with this meatloaf!
Get ready for a taste explosion with this meatloaf!

Now that you have the basic recipe for this delicious dairy-free meatloaf, it’s time to explore some substitutions and variations. The beauty of meatloaf is that it is a versatile dish, and by changing a few ingredients, you can create entirely different flavor profiles. Here are some options that you may want to try:

– Paleo meatloaf: If you’re following a paleo diet, you can swap out the rolled oats for almond flour or coconut flour. You can also replace the ketchup with a homemade tomato sauce made from tomatoes, vinegar, and spices.

– Chicken meatloaf: Ground chicken is an excellent alternative to beef, and it produces a lighter-tasting meatloaf. Use ground chicken instead of beef in this recipe, and add your choice of herbs such as thyme or sage to give it an extra burst of flavor.

– Turkey meatloaf with bacon: Want to add some extra smoky flavor? Replace the lean beef with ground turkey and add crumbled bacon to the mix. Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes and green beans for a satisfying meal.

– Classic meatloaf: If you prefer a more traditional meatloaf, use breadcrumbs instead of rolled oats, and replace the ketchup with a mixture of tomato paste and brown sugar. You can also add diced celery and carrots to the onion mixture for extra crunch.

– Egg-free, gluten-free meatloaf: For those who want to avoid eggs and gluten altogether, substitute the large egg in this recipe with an egg replacer such as applesauce, soaked chia seeds, or mashed bananas. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of rolled oats, ensuring that they are quick-cooking.

Remember that these substitutions are just suggestions—feel free to experiment with your own ingredients to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds. By getting creative in the kitchen, you can make this simple dish something truly magical.

Serving and Pairing

 A delicious, homemade meatloaf that's so easy to make.
A delicious, homemade meatloaf that’s so easy to make.

Ah, here we are at the best part! Serving and pairing the delicious dairy-free meatloaf. You can’t go wrong with a classic meatloaf meal – mashed potatoes, green beans or carrots, and, of course, the star of the show- meatloaf. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, you can pair it with grilled vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.

For those seeking a low-carb option, try serving the meatloaf on a bed of cauliflower rice instead of mashed potatoes. It is just as comforting and will leave you feeling satisfied without the heavy feeling.

Another great serving option is topping it with bacon or adding it into the meatloaf itself for that smoky and savory touch. And who doesn’t love bacon? You can also top it with a drizzle of ketchup for that added tangy zing that kids will adore.

Pair this meatloaf with a glass of bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec to compliment the hearty flavor profile of the dish. Alternatively, you can serve it with lemonade or iced tea for that sweet and refreshing taste.

It’s versatile in pairing and perfect for lunch or dinner. So whip up your dairy-free meatloaf along with its palings, dim the lights, set the table in cozy mood lighting for that perfect homely feel and enjoy!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 This is not your Mama's meatloaf, try this dairy-free twist!
This is not your Mama’s meatloaf, try this dairy-free twist!

Once you have made this delicious meatloaf, you may wish to save some for later. The good news is, it’s very suitable for storing and reheating! Depending on your requirements, there are different ways to prepare the dish in advance.

If you want to serve the meatloaf on the same day, it is best to allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. But if you plan to store it, let the meatloaf cool completely before wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.

To reheat the meatloaf, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the foil or plastic wrap and place the meatloaf in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Make sure that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 165°F (74°C).

Another option for reheating is in a microwave. First, slice the meatloaf and transfer it onto a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and nuke on high for 30 seconds per slice or until warmed all way through.

So, whether it’s a quick lunchtime snack or a family dinner, reheating this dairy-free gluten-free meatloaf recipe is always easy and hassle-free while maintaining its divine taste!

Tips for Perfect Results

 A perfect comfort food for a cozy night in, without the dairy!
A perfect comfort food for a cozy night in, without the dairy!

Nothing beats a delicious meatloaf for dinner. It’s comforting, satisfying and brings back memories of family meals. However, it can be tricky to get it just right. Here are some tips for making the perfect dairy-free, gluten-free meatloaf that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

1. Use Lean Ground Beef

Using lean ground beef will help keep your meatloaf from falling apart. Ground beef with 90% lean meat content is ideal because it has less fat, which means less shrinkage during cooking.

2. Soak Rolled Oats

Rolled oats can be used as a substitute for breadcrumbs in meatloaf recipes, which makes them gluten-free. To ensure that the oats don’t dry out and absorb all the moisture from the meat, soak them in almond milk or a non-dairy milk alternative for at least 10 minutes before adding to the mixture.

3. Add Flavorful Ingredients

To add extra flavor to your meatloaf, consider adding bacon pieces or spices like garlic powder and onion powder. Additionally, using diced onions and peppers can add texture and depth to the flavor profile of your meatloaf.

4. Let It Rest

Once you’ve cooked your meatloaf, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing it. This will give the juices time to redistribute within the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

5. Serve with Mashed Potatoes

A classic pairing with meatloaf is mashed potatoes – but without the dairy! Try using almond milk or other non-dairy milk alternatives in your mashed potatoes recipe for a delicious side dish without any lactose.

By following these tips, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meatloaf that’s both dairy-free and gluten-free, yet still full of flavor and moisture. Enjoy!

FAQ

As you prepare this dairy-free, gluten-free, and egg-free meatloaf, you may come across some questions. Fear not! This FAQ section will address some of the most common queries to ensure that your meatloaf turns out perfectly every time. Let’s dive in!

What can replace milk in meatloaf?

Adding milk to meatloaf is a common practice as it helps the bread crumbs absorb moisture and prevent the dish from becoming dry. However, if you prefer not to use milk, there are alternatives such as low sodium beef or chicken stock, water, or non-dairy milk substitutes that can be used instead.

Does meatloaf contain dairy?

It’s surprising to know that many meatloaf recipes contain dairy products. Milk is often used to soften the breadcrumbs before they are mixed into the meat, and some bread crumbs even have dairy ingredients. Additionally, certain meatloaf preparations include cheese as an ingredient.

How do you keep a vegan meatloaf from falling apart?

For those who follow a vegan diet or have an egg allergy, ground flax, breadcrumbs, and oats are great binding alternatives to keep your meatloaf intact.

What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart?

Just like breadcrumbs and milk, eggs play a crucial role in holding the meatloaf together as a binding agent.

Can you use broth instead of milk in meatloaf?

If you’re looking for an alternative to milk in your meatloaf recipe, you have several options to choose from. One effective substitute is to use chicken, beef, or vegetable broth as an alternative liquid. Additionally, you could opt for plain water, but keep in mind that it won’t contribute any extra flavor.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this meatloaf recipe is the perfect option for those who want a flavorful and healthy meal without dairy or gluten. It has a magical tomato sauce that will make it unforgettable, and its texture is just right, avoiding the common problem of meatloaf falling apart.

Moreover, this recipe is customizable and versatile. You can use different types of ground meat such as chicken or turkey if you prefer not to use beef. Also, you can add some vegetables to make it even more nutritious without compromising the taste.

And let’s not forget about the bacon. Its salty flavor and crunchy texture elevate this meatloaf to a whole new level. It will not only taste delicious but also look amazing on your plate.

In short, this meatloaf recipe is one of the best dairy-free and gluten-free options out there. With its well-balanced flavors and simplicity, it will please everyone at your table. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and store in the fridge for later servings.

So why not try this recipe today? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later.

Meatloaf - Dairy Free

Meatloaf - Dairy Free Recipe

Good hot as a meal or cold as a sandwich.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 2 hrs
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Calories 385.1 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup rolled oats
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
  • 2 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 3 slices bacon

Instructions
 

  • Mix the rolled oats, salt, pepper and onion together in a bowl.
  • Add ground beef and mix lightly.
  • Put meat mixture into a 5 x 9 loaf pan.
  • Spread ketchup over meat and then top with bacon.
  • Bake at 350°F for 2 hours.
  • Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Add Your Own Notes

Nutrition

Serving: 226gCalories: 385.1kcalCarbohydrates: 7.3gProtein: 39.2gFat: 21.1gSaturated Fat: 8.3gCholesterol: 125.6mgSodium: 367.4mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 3.1g
Keyword < 4 Hours, Dairy Free, Egg-free, Free Of..., High In..., High Protein, Lactose-free, Meat
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