This Dairy-Free Meatloaf is hearty and full of flavor! Made with ground meat, veggies, and delicious spices, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any meal. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
I love that it’s dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worries. Pair it with some mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I often use a blend of beef and pork for added flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken works well too. For vegetarian options, consider lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs are fine, but you can swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. I sometimes use crushed oats for a healthier twist.
Almond Milk: Any dairy-free milk, like coconut or soy milk, can be a great substitute. I prefer unsweetened almond milk for its mild flavor, but just use what you enjoy!
Ketchup: To avoid added sugars, you can make your own with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices, or use a store-bought brand that’s labeled dairy-free.
How Do I Keep the Meatloaf Moist?
Moisture is key for a perfect meatloaf. Here are some tips:
- Mushrooms: Adding finely chopped mushrooms not only adds moisture but also enhances the flavor. If you skip them, consider grated zucchini or carrots.
- Dairy-Free Milk: Incorporate a generous amount of your dairy-free milk of choice. It keeps the mixture moist.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatloaf.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the meatloaf sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps retain moisture when slicing.
Dairy-Free Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (optional, for moisture)
- 1 cup gluten-free or regular breadcrumbs (ensure dairy-free)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or any dairy-free milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (check brand for dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Dairy-Free Meatloaf will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 60 minutes to bake. After baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour and 25 minutes to enjoy a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your loaf pan ready. You can either lightly grease it with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Combine the Meat and Veggies:
In a large bowl, add the ground meat. Then, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped mushrooms if you’re using them. Add the breadcrumbs next and give everything a good mix to combine the ingredients.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs, dairy-free milk, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. This will add great flavor and moisture to the meatloaf.
4. Combine Mixtures:
Pour the wet mixture into the meat mixture. Use your hands, a fork, or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly, but be gentle. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough, and we want it to be tender and delicious!
5. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press it in evenly and make sure the top is smooth. This helps it cook evenly.
6. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This glaze is what gives the meatloaf a beautiful and tasty topping. Spread it evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C).
8. Let It Rest:
When it’s done, take the meatloaf out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep all those tasty juices inside when you slice it.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your meatloaf and serve it hot. If you want, sprinkle some finely chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy it with your favorite sides like steamed green beans or fluffy mashed potatoes!
Bon appétit! Your hearty, flavorful, and dairy-free meatloaf is ready to be enjoyed!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, consider mashed lentils or chickpeas as a base.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you need a substitute, crushed oats or almond flour can work great. Just ensure they are dairy-free if that’s a concern, and adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly if needed.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze meatloaf slices for up to 3 months – just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Make This Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake it ahead of time, cool it, and then reheat when needed.