This Dairy-Free Meatloaf is a comforting dish that is soft and tasty! Made with ground meat and packed with veggies, it’s perfect for family dinners.
Who knew meatloaf could be so cozy? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with mashed potatoes and a side of veggies for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I like using a mix of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor, but turkey or chicken are lighter options. If you’re plant-based, try using lentils or a meat substitute for a hearty texture.
Oats: Rolled oats act as a great binder instead of breadcrumbs, perfect for a dairy-free recipe. If oats aren’t available, almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers work too.
Dairy-Free Milk: Almond or oat milk are my go-to choices. If you have a nut allergy, coconut milk can be used too, but keep in mind it can add a bit of a coconut flavor. Rice milk is another mild option.
Worcestershire Sauce: Always check the label to ensure it’s dairy-free. If you can’t find it, coconut aminos provide a nice alternative, though slightly sweeter.
Glaze: Using ketchup is common, but you can swap in your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile. Balsamic glaze is a fun twist if you’re looking for something tangy.
How Do You Ensure Your Meatloaf Stays Moist and Flavorful?
To keep your meatloaf moist, follow this simple technique.
- Soaking the oats in dairy-free milk helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture. Don’t skip this step!
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture. This prevents the meatloaf from becoming tough. Just mix until everything is combined.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This ensures your meatloaf is cooked properly without drying out.
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing helps the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy. Happy cooking!
Dairy-Free Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meat and Vegetables:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mixture with ground pork or turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Binder:
- 1 cup rolled oats (as a binder, instead of breadcrumbs)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk (such as almond or oat milk)
- 2 large eggs
Herbs and Flavoring:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (make sure it’s dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
For Topping:
- 1 cup ketchup or tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for the glaze)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for the glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Dairy-Free Meatloaf recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 1 hour to cook. You’ll be enjoying this delicious dinner in just over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier later on.
2. Soak the Oats:
In a small bowl, pour the unsweetened dairy-free milk over the rolled oats. Let them soak for about 5 minutes to become soft and ready to mix into your meatloaf.
3. Mix the Meat and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, soaked oats, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is well combined, but be careful not to overmix!
4. Shape Into a Loaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s evenly shaped for even cooking.
5. Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup (or tomato sauce), brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. This tasty glaze will add flavor and moisture to your meatloaf.
6. Spread the Glaze:
Spread half of the ketchup glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. It will caramelize beautifully as it bakes.
7. Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake the meatloaf uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
8. Finish Baking:
After 45 minutes, remove it from the oven, spread the remaining glaze on top, and return it to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes. It’s done when a meat thermometer inserted into the center reads 160°F (71°C).
9. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy! Serve warm with your choice of vegetables, like delicious steamed green beans.
Enjoy your comforting and tasty dairy-free meatloaf!
Can I Use Different Types of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of meats. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may result in a slightly drier meatloaf, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Use a Different Glaze?
Yes! If you prefer, you can use BBQ sauce, a balsamic glaze, or even a simple mixture of mustard and honey. Feel free to get creative with flavors that you enjoy!