Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (2024)

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Apr 10, 2023

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My Gluten Free Classic Meatloaf recipe is tender and flavorful, made with juicy ground beef, savory onions, and a handful of basic seasonings. Topped with a sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze, this recipe is family-favorite comfort food that I just know you’ll love, too.

Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (3)

Table of Contents

  • Easy Gluten Free Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze
  • What You’ll Need
  • How to Make Gluten Free Classic Meatloaf
  • Tips for Success
  • Variation Ideas
  • Make It a Meal
  • How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
  • Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
  • Things You’ll Need
  • Get the Recipe

Easy Gluten Free Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

Growing up, I never fully appreciated meatloaf, and how it made a food budget go that much further. It’s really a genius way to stretch inexpensive ground beef with equally affordable fillers like eggs and breadcrumbs.

Of course, sometimes, what was gained back budget-wise was lost in the flavor department. In recent years, I’ve set out to remedy this with recipes like my French Onion Stuffed Meatloaf and Mozzarella Stuffed Meatloaf. But at the end of the day, I thought it was time to revamp a classic.

If you’re someone who has nothing but dry, crumbly memories of classic meatloaf, I’m here to encourage you to give this recipe for gluten-free meatloaf a shot. I promise it will blow you away!

This tender glazed meatloaf is flavorful and juicy, made with savory ground beef and basic seasonings. This is good old-fashioned comfort food, topped with a tangy brown sugar glaze that locks in all the flavor.

Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (4)

What You’ll Need

The ingredients you’ll need to make this easy gluten-free meatloaf are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. This recipe is truly a classic in every sense of the word! Below is a short overview of the ingredients, with the full amounts available in the recipe card:

  • Ground Beef: I recommend using either 85% or 90% lean ground beef, so the meatloaf doesn’t turn out too greasy.
  • Ketchup: Classic ketchup adds a subtly sweet and tangy tomato flavor.
  • Milk and Egg: Our binding ingredients, along with breadcrumbs. Milk adds moisture to the loaf while an egg helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: I love the hint of umami that Worcestershire sauce brings to the beef. You don’t need a lot, and it really deepens the flavors.
  • Mustard: Regular yellow mustard works great, or you can use another preferred kind, like Dijon or even hot mustard.
  • Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Same as in homemade meatballs, breadcrumbs in this recipe work with the eggs to give the loaf structure. Use your favorite brand of gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Onion: Diced yellow onion caramelizes inside the meatloaf while it bakes, for another layer of flavor.
  • Parsley: I mix in dried or fresh parsley, along with salt and pepper for seasoning.
  • Glaze: For this homemade meatloaf, I whip up a simple and savory glaze made by whisking together ketchup and mustard with a bit of brown sugar.
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (5)

Can I Substitute the Breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs absorb the fats and juices that would otherwise seep out of the meatloaf while it bakes. So while you can’t skip them, you can substitute them.

Old-fashioned oats are a handy alternative to gluten-free breadcrumbs. I recommend pulsing the oats in a blender or food processor a couple of times to grind them a bit. Also, make sure to use certified gluten-free old-fashioned oats and not instant or quick oats, as these varieties absorb moisture too quickly.

For more information, read Are Oats Gluten Free?

How to Make Gluten Free Classic Meatloaf

My family always had ground beef in the fridge or freezer, and meatloaf was a meal that would often be made on the fly on busy weeknights. This classic meatloaf recipe takes it back to the basics, and it couldn’t be easier to make:

  • Combine the Ingredients: Add all the meatloaf ingredients to a large bowl, and give them a gentle mix. I like to use my hands, to avoid overworking the meat.
  • Bake: Next, gently press the meat mixture evenly into a parchment-lined loaf pan. Bake the loaf at 350ºF for about 40 minutes.
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (6)
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (7)
  • Glaze: Meanwhile, whisk together the glaze ingredients. Spread this over the meatloaf (you can use a butter knife or a brush) and then place it back into the oven for another 15-20 minutes. Then, slice and serve!
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (8)
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (9)
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (10)

Tips for Success

Classic meatloaf is one of those retro recipes that’s nearly failproof. These are my tips to ensure that this gluten-free recipe comes together as seamlessly as possible:

  • Don’t overwork the meat. Make sure to only mix the meat mixture until the ingredients are just combined, and do your best to not overwork it. Overworked meatloaf will turn out tough, not tender.
  • Avoid packing the meat into the pan. Following the previous tip, don’t press the meat too firmly into the baking pan. Press it just enough to flatten the top, but packing it down will yield a dense, tough loaf.
  • To test the flavor of your meatloaf, take a spoonful of the finished meat mixture and cook it in a pan on the stovetop. This way you can test the flavor before you bake the whole thing.
  • Check the temperature. Your meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reads 160ºF on an instant-read thermometer.
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (11)

Variation Ideas

There’s more than one way to adapt this meatloaf to your family’s tastes. Here are some easy ways to switch up ingredients and add-ins:

  • Different Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and parsley are a good start, and you can swap in or add more seasonings if you’d like. Try paprika for a bit of smokiness, cayenne for a spicy kick, or Italian seasoning in place of parsley.
  • Different Meat: Instead of all ground beef, you can make this gluten-free meatloaf with half beef/half ground pork, or use leaner ground meat like chicken or turkey.
  • Add Veggies: You can always up the nutrition of your meatloaf by incorporating pureed roasted or sauteed vegetables into the meat mixture (like I do in my Roasted Vegetable Meatloaf recipe). Or, sautee diced onion, carrots, and celery to add to the mix. This is a fantastic way to sneak in some hidden veggies while using up leftovers.
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (12)

Make It a Meal

There are so many tasty sides that go great with hot-from-the-oven meatloaf. We’ll serve thick slices alongside Mashed Potatoes and a healthy side of Roasted Broccoli or Easy Roasted Butternut Squash. Cozy dinners don’t get much better!

For a lighter meal, enjoy gluten-free meatloaf served with a fresh green salad topped with Maple Dijon Dressing. My kids also love their meatloaf with Gluten Free Stovetop Mac and Cheese a drizzle of homemade Balsamic Ketchup.

For a stick-to-your-ribs dinner, serve meatloaf with a Baked Potato or Italian Seasoned Oven Fries and gravy. Or, bulk up a meal with Gluten-Free Garlic Breadsticks.

And don’t forget some of my favorite veggie side dishes for meatloaf:

  • Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
  • Honey Roasted Carrots
  • Creamy Green Beans and Mushrooms
  • Oven Roasted Asparagus
Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (13)

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftover gluten-free meatloaf can be stored airtight in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. We love using leftover slices in meatloaf sandwiches! To reheat meatloaf, warm it

Can I Freeze Meatloaf?

Absolutely! Beef meatloaf freezes well, either whole or in slices. For individual servings, I’ll wrap slices in plastic wrap and store them all together in a resealable freezer bag. Or, the whole loaf can be wrapped and frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost the meatloaf in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (14)

Things You’ll Need

As mentioned earlier, I like to make this meatloaf in a 9-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper. This keeps it in a perfect loaf shape that you can easily lift out of the pan using the paper.

    Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (16)

    5 from 5 votes

    Gluten Free Classic Meatloaf

    This homemade Gluten Free Classic Meatloaf recipe is so tender and juicy! It's classic comfort food made with savory ground beef and a handful of seasonings, plus a sweet-tangy brown sugar glaze.

    Prep: 10 minutes mins

    Cook: 1 hour hr

    Total: 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

    Ingredients

    For the meatloaf:

    • 2 lbs 85% or 90% lean ground beef
    • 1/2 cup ketchup
    • 1/3 cup milk
    • 1 large egg
    • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 teaspoons prepared yellow mustard
    • 3/4 cup plain gluten free bread crumbs
    • 1/4 cup finely diced onion
    • 1 teaspoon dried parsley or 1 Tablespoon minced fresh parsley
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • Minced fresh parsley , optional

    For the glaze:

    • 1/2 cup ketchup
    • 2 Tablespoons brown sugar
    • 1 Tablespoon prepared yellow mustard

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

    • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ketchup, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, bread crumbs, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently mix together until just combined.

    • Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan and gently press down and even out the top.

    • Bake the meatloaf at 350°F for 40 minutes.

    • While it bakes, in a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread it over the top of the meatloaf and return to the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 160°F in the middle.

    Nutrition Facts

    Gluten Free Classic Meatloaf

    Amount Per Serving

    Calories 292Calories from Fat 117

    % Daily Value*

    Fat 13g20%

    Saturated Fat 5g25%

    Trans Fat 1g

    Polyunsaturated Fat 1g

    Monounsaturated Fat 5g

    Cholesterol 98mg33%

    Sodium 714mg30%

    Potassium 506mg14%

    Carbohydrates 19g6%

    Fiber 1g4%

    Sugar 10g11%

    Protein 25g50%

    Vitamin A 203IU4%

    Vitamin C 2mg2%

    Calcium 42mg4%

    Iron 3mg17%

    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

    Author: Brianne @ Cupcakes & Kale Chips

    Course: Dinner, Main

    Cuisine: American

    Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (17)

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    Categories:

    • Dinner
    • Family Friendly
    • Gluten Free
    • Mains
    • Recipes

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    Gluten-Free Classic Meatloaf Recipe - The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf! (2024)

    FAQs

    What is a gluten free substitute for breadcrumbs in meatloaf? ›

    What is a gluten-free substitute for breadcrumbs in meatloaf? As seen in this meatloaf with breadcrumbs, I use almond flour and pork panko. These are excellent gluten-free substitutes that are also low-carb and keto friendly.

    What ingredient keeps meatloaf from falling apart? ›

    When this happens, it's because you didn't use enough. Next time, try adding in an extra egg and/or some more breadcrumbs. Alternatively, rice, barley, corn flakes, crackers, and dried soup mix can also stand in as binding ingredients as well. Including larger quantities of these items should help solve the problem.

    What can I use as a binder in meatloaf instead of breadcrumbs? ›

    If you don't have any bread, you can substitute it for breadcrumbs, crackers, cereal grains, oatmeal, instant rice, instant barley, or even potato flakes!

    Should I cook my meatloaf covered or uncovered? ›

    Should I cook my meatloaf covered or uncovered? The meatloaf can be cooked uncovered. However, if you are concerned about it burning, you can cover the meatloaf with foil for the first 45 minutes and uncover it for the final 15 minutes to allow the meatloaf to brown on top.

    Can I use almond flour instead of bread crumbs? ›

    Almond flour has a nutty taste and a course texture, which makes it an easy sub for bread crumbs. It's also gluten-free, so if you have a sensitivity or diet need, this is a great option. "It's used in a lot of keto recipes as a sub for breadcrumbs," Xie said, adding that it'll work as a binder or a topping.

    What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs gluten-free? ›

    Crushed potato chips make a great substitution for panko bread crumbs and are an ingredient most people have in their cabinets already. As an added plus, they're naturally gluten-free, depending on the type used. Chips are already crispy, so there's no need to toast them before substituting.

    Why do you put milk in meatloaf? ›

    Milk and other dairy products, like heavy cream and buttermilk, contain both water and fat, adding two types of moisture to our meatloaf. There's a long-held theory that milk can tenderize ground meat, and this is the reason often cited for cooking ground meat in milk to make a Bolognese-style ragù.

    What happens if you put too many eggs in meatloaf? ›

    Fewer eggs will create a denser and firmer meatloaf that will be more compact and easier to slice, but more eggs can create a more tender and light texture that allows the meatloaf to melt in your mouth.

    What is the best binder for meatloaf? ›

    The most traditional meatloaf binder is probably torn up bread soaked in milk, but you can also use bread crumbs, Panko, dehydrated potato (instant mashed potatoes), or just about any other grain.

    How do you make meatloaf hold together? ›

    To help your meatloaf stay together add things such as eggs, bread, crushed croutons, oatmeal, crackers, and breadcrumbs, these are all key ingredients that help meat stick together.

    Is oatmeal better than bread crumbs in meatloaf? ›

    Oats are the perfect substitutes for breadcrumbs in meatballs or meatloaf. While they aren't ideal for a crispy coating, they add the right amount of texture to bind meat, eggs and flavorings together into a delicious Italian-inspired feast.

    What is a gluten free substitute for breadcrumbs in meatballs? ›

    Rolled oats are the perfect gluten-free binding ingredient, replacing breadcrumbs in meatballs or meatloaf and many more recipes when you need to bind meat and eggs. Rolled oats are best not used as a coating agent as they tend to go soggy.

    Is it better to cook meatloaf at 350 or 375? ›

    The oven temperature is typically set at 350 degrees F for making meatloaf. That's the temperature you want to be sure to use so the meatloaf cooks and doesn't dry out. Too high, and the outer crust will burn before the interior is cooked all the way, too low and you don't get that delicious crust.

    What is the basic meatloaf formula? ›

    In essence, it boils down to a few simple steps: Combine ground meat, eggs, breadcrumbs, and other flavorful ingredients of your choice. Put this mixture in a lightly greased loaf pan and bake it until it's cooked through.

    Do you have to put ketchup on top of meatloaf? ›

    Luckily, there are plenty of options for a meatloaf glaze that doesn't include ketchup and adds new and unique flavors to a classic dish. Some popular substitutions include: Barbecue sauce.

    What can I use instead of breadcrumbs in meatballs gluten-free? ›

    Rolled oats are the perfect gluten-free binding ingredient, replacing breadcrumbs in meatballs or meatloaf and many more recipes when you need to bind meat and eggs. Rolled oats are best not used as a coating agent as they tend to go soggy.

    What is a good gluten-free substitute for breadcrumbs? ›

    Substitution / Alternatives For Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs
    • Homemade almond flour or almond meal.
    • Corn flakes (not all corn flakes are gluten free, so be sure to check ingredients)
    • Gluten-free crackers.
    • Rolled oats (used certified gluten free)
    • Crushed nuts.
    • Gluten free pretzels.
    • Potato chips.
    • Rice or Corn Chex cereal.
    Apr 22, 2020

    What is a gluten-free bread crumb substitute for meatballs? ›

    Rolled Oats. Oats are a hearty grain that isn't just for breakfast. A breadcrumb substitute for all things sweet, savory, and everything in between, rolled oats are minimally processed. They have the perfect texture for every recipe, including these flavorful Gluten Free Turkey Meatballs.

    What can I use to bind instead of breadcrumbs? ›

    Nuts Or Seeds

    Sunflower seeds, almonds, and sesame seeds are all great breadcrumb alternatives. Chop larger nuts finely in a food processor. Seeds like sesame are already small enough and can be used as is. Use a variety of nuts as a coating for chicken, fish, or pork; just pulse them finely so they will stick.

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