Meatloaf for dinner? I love a good meatloaf, and I know you do too. It’s the ultimate comfort food for any night of the week. Today, I’m sharing two fantastic meatloaf recipes that I think you’ll really enjoy, making weeknight meals simple and delicious.
Whether you need a quick dinner solution or something that fits a keto lifestyle, I have you covered. These recipes are staples in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try them!
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Instant Pot Meatloaf for Quick Dinner
This Instant Pot meatloaf recipe is a game-changer for busy nights. It cooks up quickly and comes out perfectly tender every time.
You’ll love how easy it is to make, and it’s fantastic with a simple side of mashed potatoes or green beans.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Instant Pot Cooking
- Ground Meat Choice: I often use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and moisture, but you can use leaner if you prefer.
- Moisture is Key: Adding a bit of milk or broth to the mixture helps keep the meatloaf super tender when cooking under pressure.
What You Need for Instant Pot Meatloaf
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup for glaze
⏱️ Time: 45 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6 servings
How to Make Instant Pot Meatloaf
Step 1: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your meatloaf tough.
Step 2: Form and Prepare
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf. Place a trivet in your Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water to the bottom. Carefully place the meatloaf on the trivet. I like to shape it directly on a piece of aluminum foil to easily lift it in and out.
Step 3: Cook and Glaze
Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, let it natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Carefully remove the meatloaf, spread ketchup over the top, and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
📝 Final Note
Leftover Instant Pot meatloaf slices are wonderful in sandwiches the next day, or reheated for another quick meal.
Keto Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re following a keto diet, this meatloaf recipe is for you. It’s packed with flavor and uses low-carb binders to keep it compliant.
You won’t even miss the breadcrumbs, and the rich, comforting taste makes it perfect for a family dinner.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Keto Meatloaf
- Low-Carb Binder: Instead of breadcrumbs, I use crushed pork rinds or almond flour. They work perfectly to hold the meatloaf together.
- Sugar-Free Glaze: For a keto-friendly topping, mix sugar-free ketchup with a little apple cider vinegar and a pinch of erythritol.
What You Need for Keto Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 or 70/30)
- 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds or almond flour
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (check for sugar-free)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the glaze: 1/2 cup sugar-free ketchup, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp erythritol
⏱️ Time: 1 hour 15 minutes🍽️ Yields: 8 servings
How to Make Keto Meatloaf
Step 1: Prep Oven and Mix Meat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed pork rinds (or almond flour), eggs, heavy cream, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined.
Step 2: Form Loaf and Bake
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 3: Make and Apply Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, prepare the keto glaze by mixing the sugar-free ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and erythritol in a small bowl. After 45 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven, spread the glaze generously over the top, and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is slightly caramelized and the meatloaf is fully cooked.
📝 Final Note
This keto meatloaf pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad for a complete low-carb meal.
