There’s nothing quite like a comforting meatloaf for dinner, is it? It’s a classic dish that brings warmth to any table. I love how versatile it is, and today, I’m sharing two fantastic meatloaf recipes that you’ll definitely want to try.
Whether you need a quick dinner solution or are sticking to a low-carb eating plan, I have you covered. Let’s make some tasty meatloaf!
Jump to Recipe:
Instant Pot Meatloaf: Easy Weeknight Meal
I love how quickly the Instant Pot makes dinner. This meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy nights when you still want a hearty, homemade meal.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Instant Pot Meatloaf
- Ground Beef Choice: I like to use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture. It cooks up nicely in the pressure cooker.
- Classic Tomato Glaze: A simple mix of ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar makes a familiar and delicious topping for your meatloaf.
- Use a Trivet: Always use a trivet in your Instant Pot. This keeps the meatloaf out of the liquid, helping it cook evenly and preventing it from getting soggy.
What You Need for Instant Pot Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth (for the Instant Pot)
- For the Glaze: 1/2 cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
⏱️ Time: 45 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make Instant Pot Meatloaf
Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your meatloaf tough. Form the mixture into a compact loaf shape.
Step 2: Prepare the Instant Pot for Cooking
Pour 1 cup of beef broth into the bottom of your Instant Pot insert. Place the metal trivet inside the pot. Carefully set your shaped meatloaf on top of the trivet. This ensures it cooks above the liquid.
Step 3: Pressure Cook and Glaze
Close the Instant Pot lid and make sure the sealing valve is set to “Sealing.” Select Manual or Pressure Cook on High for 25 minutes. Once cooking is done, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. While the meatloaf rests, mix your glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Carefully remove the meatloaf, spread the glaze over it, and serve warm.
📝 Final Note
This Instant Pot meatloaf makes wonderful leftovers! Slice it thin for sandwiches the next day, or reheat gently for another meal.
Keto Meatloaf: Low-Carb Comfort Food
If you’re looking for a delicious low-carb dinner, this keto meatloaf is a fantastic option. It’s packed with flavor and fits perfectly into your eating plan.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Keto Meatloaf
- Pork Rinds for Binding: Crushed pork rinds are your best friend here! They replace traditional breadcrumbs, keeping the meatloaf low-carb and adding a nice texture.
- Sugar-Free Ketchup is Key: For both mixing into the meat and for the glaze, make sure you use a good quality sugar-free ketchup to keep the carb count low. Always check labels.
- Optional Almond Flour: A small amount of almond flour can help bind the meatloaf mixture without adding many carbs. It’s a great alternative if you want extra firmness.
What You Need for Keto Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp almond flour (optional, for extra binding)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, omit for stricter keto)
- 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup (for mixing into meat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the Glaze: 1/2 cup sugar-free ketchup, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make Keto Meatloaf
Step 1: Combine the Keto Meatloaf Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed pork rinds, egg, almond flour (if using), chopped onion (if using), 1/4 cup sugar-free ketchup, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix the meat.
Step 2: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Shape the mixture into a compact loaf. You can place it directly into a loaf pan, or for a crispier exterior, shape it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 3: Glaze and Finish Baking
About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done baking, prepare your glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup sugar-free ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and keto-friendly sweetener. Spread this glaze over the meatloaf and return it to the oven for the remaining 10 minutes. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after baking before slicing and serving.
📝 Final Note
To make this a complete low-carb meal, I like to serve this keto meatloaf with simple steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a creamy cauliflower mash.
