Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf

When you’re craving something hearty and nostalgic but want to keep it low on carbs, this Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf hits every mark. It’s tender, packed with flavor, and baked to perfection with a rich tomato glaze. Instead of breadcrumbs, it uses almond flour and grated veggies to lock in moisture without the extra carbs.

What sets this low-carb meatloaf apart is the texture—it’s never dry or crumbly. A mix of ground beef and pork gives it depth, while ingredients like garlic, onion, and Worcestershire sauce bring that classic comfort food flavor. It’s everything you love about traditional meatloaf, just with a lighter, low-carb twist.

I first made this Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf when I was experimenting with keto-style dinners, and I honestly didn’t expect to love it as much as I did. But the first bite was juicy, savory, and had that nostalgic “Sunday dinner” feel. The best part? I didn’t miss the breadcrumbs at all. Even my carb-loving friends couldn’t tell the difference.

Now, this low-carb meatloaf is in regular rotation. I serve it with mashed cauliflower or a crisp side salad, and there are never leftovers. Whether you’re doing keto or just trying to eat a little cleaner, this Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf is that perfect balance of cozy and healthy. If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that won’t derail your dietary goals, this meatloaf is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf

• Moist and Flavorful – No dry slices here—this meatloaf stays juicy throughout
• Keto-Friendly – Completely grain-free and perfect for low-carb diets
• Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples and easy-to-find veggies
• Make-Ahead Magic – Preps easily and holds up beautifully for leftovers
• Classic Taste – All the nostalgic flavor of traditional meatloaf, minus the carbs

Health Benefits of Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf

It’s not just delicious—it supports your goals too:

• High Protein – Supports muscle repair and keeps you full longer
• Low-Carb Veggies – Hidden grated zucchini or mushrooms add fiber and nutrients
• Healthy Fats – Balanced with fats from eggs and quality meats
• No Added Sugars – Made without sugary ketchup or sauces
• Gluten-Free – Completely free of gluten-containing ingredients

When to Make Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf

This meatloaf works for any weeknight or meal prep plan:

• Busy Weeknights – Easy to throw together and pop in the oven
• Meal Prep Wins – Keeps well and slices easily for future meals
• Family Dinners – A crowd-pleaser even for picky eaters
• Low-Carb Living – Great for keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets
• Cozy Sunday Meals – Classic comfort food made lighter and healthier

Chef’s Notes: Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatloaf just until everything is combined to keep the texture tender and juicy.
• Rest is Best: Always let the loaf rest before slicing—this prevents it from falling apart and keeps it juicy.
• Grate for Greatness: Grated onion not only adds flavor but also boosts moisture—no need to sauté!
• Extra Glaze Love: For a glossy finish, brush with a second layer of glaze during the final 10 minutes of baking.
• Freezer Hero: Make a double batch—freeze one raw and bake straight from frozen (add 20 extra minutes).
• Use a Thermometer: Meatloaf is perfect at 160°F. An instant-read thermometer ensures it’s not over- or undercooked.
• Try Muffin Tins: Portion into muffin tins for mini meatloaves that cook in 25–30 minutes—great for meal prep!
• Greens on the Side: Serve with garlicky sautéed greens or roasted Brussels sprouts for a keto-friendly plate.
• Slick the Pan: If not lining with parchment, lightly oil your loaf pan to avoid sticking.
• Flavor Twists: Try Italian seasoning or a dash of Worcestershire sauce if you’re not strictly low-carb.

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Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Southern RecipesDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

Calories

570

kcal

Resting Time

10

minutes

Total time

1

hour 

20

minutes

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with this show‑stopper keto meatloaf! Imagine savoring a tender, extra‑juicy loaf slathered in a tangy, sugar‑free glaze that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. Bursting with flavor from grated onion, fresh garlic, and herbs, this low‑carb marvel cooks in under an hour and uses pantry‑friendly ingredients. It’s the perfect healthy comfort food that even non‑keto eaters will adore—let’s dive in and make your dinner table the star of the night!

Ingredients

• Meatloaf Base

• 1 lb 80/20 ground beef gently warmed to room temperature

• 1 small yellow onion coarsely grated to lock in moisture

• 1 clove garlic finely minced for aromatic depth

• 1 large egg lightly beaten to bind ingredients

• 2 tbsp sugar‑free ketchup for tangy sweetness

• 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk adds juiciness

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped bright and herbaceous

• 6 tbsp almond meal replaces traditional breadcrumbs

• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt enhances all flavors

• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper mild heat

• Sweet‑Tangy Glaze

• 6 tbsp sugar‑free ketchup silky and rich

• 3/4 tsp white vinegar for a bright zip

• 1 tbsp brown sugar substitute caramel‑like sweetness

• Alternative Ingredients

• Ground turkey – replaces beef for leaner protein

• Flaxseed meal – swap for almond meal for nut‑free option

• Coconut cream – instead of almond milk for dairy alternative

• Tomato paste + stevia – in place of sugar‑free ketchup

• Pork rind crumbs – use if you can’t find almond meal

• Chia egg 1 tbsp chia + 3 tbsp water – egg substitute for vegans

• Cilantro – instead of parsley for a citrusy twist

• Apple cider vinegar – sub for white vinegar for more depth

• Monk fruit sweetener – varies brown sugar alternative

• Red onion – use instead of yellow for sharper bite

Directions

• Prep Pan – Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×5 loaf pan with oil or line with parchment (2–3 minutes). This step ensures the meatloaf releases cleanly after baking.
• Mix Filling – In a large bowl, combine ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, ketchup, almond milk, parsley, almond meal, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to fold everything gently until uniform, about 5 minutes. Tip: Overmixing can toughen the loaf, so stop once ingredients are just combined.
• Bake Loaf – Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan, shaping into a smooth top. Place on the middle rack and bake for 40 minutes. Note: Internal temperature should reach 160°F for safe serving. Optional: insert an instant‑read thermometer to confirm.
• Glaze Brown – While the loaf bakes, whisk together glaze ingredients in a small bowl (3 minutes). After the initial 40 minutes, remove the loaf and brush the top generously with glaze. Return to oven and bake 15–20 more minutes to caramelize the topping.
• Rest Slice – Let the meatloaf stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets juices redistribute, keeping each slice moist. Serve drizzled with any pan juices and a sprinkle of parsley.

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons
• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• box grater

Notes

• • For extra flavor, stir 1 tsp smoked paprika into the mix.
  • Serve with a side of roasted green beans or mashed cauliflower.
  • Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 5 days and freeze beautifully.
  • Swap in diced bell pepper for onion to change up textures.
  • Brush with extra glaze halfway through the final bake for an even shinier crust.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 570kcal
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 215mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Potassium: 650mg
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 33g
• Vitamin A: 600IU
• Vitamin C: 5mg
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 4.5mg

FAQs: Juicy Low-Carb Meatloaf

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