This hearty dairy-free meatloaf is packed with flavor and made using ground meat and tasty veggies. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner that everyone will love!
I enjoy serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. It’s so comforting! Plus, it’s nice to have a dish that everyone can enjoy without dairy. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I usually go for a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor. However, you can easily use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep an eye on cooking times since lean meats may cook faster.
Breadcrumbs: I’ve used gluten-free breadcrumbs here for a dairy-free dish. If gluten isn’t a concern, regular breadcrumbs will work just as well. Panko adds extra crunch, so that’s a fun option too!
Dairy-Free Milk: Almond or oat milk both work great in this recipe. Soy milk is another good choice, but if you want to avoid soy, stick with almond. Coconut milk can also add a nice subtle flavor!
Ketchup: If you want to mix things up, homemade sauce or BBQ sauce can be great alternatives for the topping. They both add unique flavors that enhance the meatloaf!
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist and Tasty?
Keeping the meatloaf moist is key to a perfect texture. The combination of soaked breadcrumbs and dairy-free milk does half the job, but here are some additional tips:
- Don’t overmix! Once you combine the ingredients, mix just until everything is combined to keep it tender.
- Make sure to shape it gently. Pressing too hard can compact the meatloaf, making it dense.
- Let it rest after baking. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicier slice.
- If it feels dry, consider adding a bit more dairy-free milk or even some grated veggies for added moisture.
Following these tips will give you a delicious meatloaf that the whole family will love!
Dairy-Free Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (or regular if preferred)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk (such as almond or oat milk)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dairy-free meatloaf takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to bake it for around 1 hour total, which includes about 50 minutes for the initial bake and another 10-15 minutes to finish it off. Plus, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar to create the flavorful topping. Set this aside for later.
3. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a large mixing bowl, soak the gluten-free breadcrumbs in the dairy-free milk for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the meatloaf nice and moist!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the ground meat, chopped onion, mushrooms, minced garlic, eggs, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a nice loaf form. It doesn’t have to be perfect; just make sure it’s even!
6. Add the Topping:
Spread half of the ketchup mixture evenly on top of the meatloaf before baking.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. Make sure it smells great by then!
8. Top and Finish Baking:
After 50 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Carefully spread the remaining ketchup topping over the meatloaf.
9. Final Bake:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for accuracy.
10. Rest and Serve:
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing it. This allows the juices to settle, making it juicier. Serve with your favorite sides like steamed green beans and creamy mashed sweet potatoes for a perfect meal!
Enjoy your delicious, comforting dairy-free meatloaf! 😊
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it may cook a bit faster than beef. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can use regular breadcrumbs in the same amount. Alternatively, crushed crackers or oats can work as well, providing a different texture while still binding the ingredients together.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the meatloaf—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep well for about 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can enhance flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them small to ensure they cook through evenly. Sautéing them lightly before adding them to the mix can help reduce moisture too.