A delicious meatloaf recipe 🥩 specially crafted for kidney-friendly diets! Low in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus, this savory dish 😋 is perfect for taking care of your health while enjoying a hearty meal 🍽️.

What Side Dishes go with this Low Carb Meatloaf Recipe?

Here are some kidney-friendly and low-carb side dish ideas that pair perfectly with this meatloaf:

Steamed or Roasted Vegetables:
Opt for non-starchy, kidney-friendly vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, or cauliflower. Light seasoning with herbs and a touch of olive oil makes them a healthy complement.
Cauliflower Mash:
A creamy alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is low in carbs and gentle on the kidneys.
Salads with Low-Sodium Dressing:
A simple salad with leafy greens, cucumber, and a low-sodium vinaigrette is both refreshing and kidney-friendly.
Spaghetti Squash or Zoodles:
Serve with a side of spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles for a satisfying, nutrient-rich accompaniment.

What can I use Instead of Breadcrumbs for Keto Meatloaf?

For a low-carb and kidney-friendly meatloaf, consider these alternatives to traditional breadcrumbs:

Crushed Pork Rinds:
These are a zero-carb option that adds a nice texture and flavor.
Almond Flour:
A common keto-friendly binder that keeps the meatloaf moist without adding too many carbs.
Ground Flaxseed:
Acts as both a binder and a source of fiber.
Rolled Oats (if allowed in moderation):
While slightly higher in carbs, oats can be kidney-friendly in small amounts depending on individual dietary needs.

What do You Put in Meatloaf to Keep it From Falling Apart?

A successful meatloaf requires the right combination of ingredients to bind it together and maintain its shape. Here’s what you need:

Eggs:
Eggs are a primary binding agent that holds the meat and other ingredients together.
Moisture:
Add moisture with ingredients like low-sodium tomato sauce, unsweetened almond milk, or a kidney-friendly vegetable puree (e.g., zucchini or cauliflower).
Binder:
Use a low-carb binder such as almond flour, pork rinds, or ground flaxseed.
Don’t Overmix:
Gently mix the ingredients just until combined to prevent the meatloaf from becoming too dense and prone to breaking apart.

With these tips, you can enjoy a delicious, kidney-friendly meatloaf that’s easy to slice and serve!

Ingredients for the Loaf

1.2 pounds ground beef, I use 85%
0.4 cup grated parmesan cheese
0.4 cup sugar-free ketchup, divided
0.3 cup onion, minced
0.3 cup almond flour
1.8 cloves garlic, minced
1.2 whole eggs, beaten
1.2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
0.6 tablespoon homemade ranch seasoning, or 2 teaspoons of store bought
1.2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1.2 teaspoons brown monk fruit/allulose, or Brown Swerve
0.15 teaspoon smoked paprika

Ingredients for the Topping

Low-sodium tomato sauce or homemade reduced-sodium ketchup
Optional: Brown sugar for a sweet finish.

Special Equipment

A loaf pan
Mixing bowls
A spatula or wooden spoon for mixing

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine half of the ketchup and all the other ingredients except the ground beef, brown sweetener, and smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Add the ground beef to the bowl and mix gently until the ingredients are just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the meatloaf dense and tough.

Shape and Bake:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down gently to shape evenly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes.
Prepare the Glaze:
- While the meatloaf is baking, mix the remaining ketchup, brown sweetener, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.

Apply the Glaze:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 35 minutes. Spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Optional: For a full glaze coverage, carefully remove the meatloaf from the pan and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread the glaze over all sides.
Finish Baking:
- Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help retain its shape and juices.

Notes

Handle the meatloaf gently when removing it from the pan to avoid breakage.
Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Enjoy your perfectly glazed and flavorful meatloaf!