This dairy-free meatloaf is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to the table. Made with lean ground meat, veggies, and tasty seasonings, it’s full of flavor without the dairy.
What I love most is how easy it is to whip up! Just mix everything together, shape it, and let the oven do the magic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mix of beef and pork gives great flavor, but you can use turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or mushrooms as a substitute to achieve a hearty texture.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs work best, but if you’re avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed oats. Just ensure they are seasoned if you want extra flavor!
Dairy-Free Milk: Almond, soy, or oat milk are excellent choices. If allergies are a concern, coconut milk can provide a creamy texture. Just choose unsweetened varieties to avoid unwanted sweetness in your meatloaf.
Worcestershire Sauce: Important for added depth of flavor! If you’re avoiding it due to allergies, make a mixture of balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and a touch of molasses as a well-rounded substitute.
How Do I Make the Meatloaf Mixture Just Right?
Getting the mixture right is key to a tender meatloaf. Start by combining all ingredients without overmixing. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, so mix just until combined.
- Combine ground meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, and herbs in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk dairy-free milk with eggs, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the meat mixture and mix gently until just combined.
This method ensures your meatloaf stays moist and has a pleasant texture! Let it rest after baking to allow juices to redistribute before slicing. Enjoy! 🌿
Dairy-Free Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (check for dairy-free)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Glaze:
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dairy-free meatloaf recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then another 60-70 minutes to bake. After baking, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Total time: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or you can line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, and fresh parsley. Add in the salt, black pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning. Mix everything gently but thoroughly with your hands or a spoon.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dairy-free milk, eggs, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce until well blended. Pour this mixture into the meat mixture and stir gently. Be careful not to overmix, which could make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf. Make sure it’s even on top and sides.
5. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the glaze. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf for a delicious finish.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. Slice and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will help it hold together better when sliced. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like! Serve it up with your favorite sides, such as green beans or dairy-free mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
This hearty, comforting, and dairy-free classic meatloaf is sure to please both meat-loaf lovers and newcomers alike!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner meatloaf. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be more mild, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning to keep it flavorful.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for a Smaller Serving?
If you’re cooking for fewer people, you can easily halve the recipe. You can also shape the mixture into smaller meatballs for quicker cooking! Just reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes for meatballs at 350°F.
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 and warm individual pieces in the microwave or oven. If you want to freeze it, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes, adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini can enhance flavor and add moisture to your meatloaf. Just be sure to chop them small enough so they blend well into the mixture!
