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If you think meatloaf is boring, think again. This Keto Savory Spiced Meatloaf is flavorful, juicy, and anything but ordinary. Made with a perfect balance of ground meats, aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and keto-friendly binders, this dish transforms a classic comfort food into a satisfying, low-carb masterpiece.
Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or even freezing for future meals, this meatloaf holds together beautifully, slices cleanly, and keeps you full without weighing you down. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, hearty enough for guests, and flexible enough to customize to your preferences. Whether you’re new to keto or a long-time follower, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.
Why Make This Keto Savory Spiced Meatloaf?
There’s a reason this recipe has earned a permanent place in so many keto kitchens. Unlike traditional meatloaf recipes loaded with breadcrumbs, sugary ketchup, and carb-heavy fillers, this version uses wholesome, low-carb ingredients without compromising on taste or texture. Here’s what makes it so popular:
1. Incredible Flavor
With ingredients like fresh garlic, parsley, onion, smoked paprika, and ground cumin, this meatloaf has layers of savory depth in every bite. The seasoning blend adds a rich, aromatic complexity that elevates the entire dish.
2. Perfect Texture
The combination of ground beef and ground pork provides the ideal balance of fat and flavor. The meat stays juicy while holding together nicely, even without breadcrumbs.
3. Low in Carbs, High in Protein
At only 2.5 grams of net carbs per serving, this recipe is perfect for anyone on a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s also high in protein, helping you stay satisfied for hours.
4. Family-Friendly and Budget-Friendly
Even picky eaters love this recipe, making it a great option for mixed-diet households. It’s also an affordable dish that uses everyday ingredients you likely already have.
5. Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly
Prepare it on a Sunday and enjoy effortless lunches and dinners throughout the week. It also freezes exceptionally well, so you can always have a keto-friendly meal ready to go.
For more easy, low-carb comfort foods like this, download your FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes and discover flavorful meals that fit your lifestyle without sacrificing the foods you love.
Ingredients List
Each ingredient in this recipe serves a purpose—whether it’s binding the meat, adding moisture, or building flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect keto meatloaf:
For the Meatloaf:
1½ pounds ground beef (80/20) – This ratio ensures a moist and flavorful loaf.
½ pound ground pork – Adds richness and tenderness.
2 large eggs, beaten – Helps bind the mixture.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – A low-carb substitute for breadcrumbs that adds saltiness and helps with texture.
¼ cup finely chopped onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens the flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – For savory depth.
1 tablespoon tomato paste (sugar-free) – Adds umami and moisture.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a slightly smoky, warm flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – Provides earthy complexity.
1 teaspoon sea salt – Essential for seasoning.
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Optional Glaze:
2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
¼ teaspoon paprika or cayenne (optional for heat)
Ingredient Note: If you are dairy-free, you can replace the Parmesan cheese with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Read More: Keto Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed steps for the best texture and flavor. Take your time and don’t rush the mixing—it’s the secret to a meatloaf that holds together perfectly and doesn’t dry out.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a loaf pan with parchment paper, or lightly grease it with oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the beaten eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, parsley, garlic, tomato paste, and all the herbs and spices.
Use clean hands or a large spoon to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to a dense, tough texture.
Step 3: Shape the Loaf
Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan. Gently press it down into an even layer, shaping it with your hands to ensure uniform cooking. If not using a pan, you can also shape the mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Add the Glaze (Optional)
If you’re using the optional glaze, mix together the sugar-free ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and paprika. Spread it evenly over the top of the loaf using a spoon or brush. This adds a tangy, slightly sweet finish without the sugar crash.
Step 5: Bake
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for food safety.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Use a sharp knife to slice into thick or thin portions, depending on how you’re serving it. Serve hot with your favorite low-carb sides.
Want more step-by-step recipes with easy instructions like this? Get your hands on the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes and start cooking smarter, not harder.
Tips and Substitutions
Helpful Tips:
Do Not Overmix: Light mixing keeps the texture soft and tender.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs and meat can make the mixture harder to combine.
Customize the Glaze: Try sugar-free barbecue sauce or mustard instead of ketchup.
Test Seasoning: For best results, cook a small patty of the mixture in a skillet to taste before baking the whole loaf.
Substitution Ideas:
No Parmesan? Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
Ground Turkey or Chicken? These can be used in place of beef and pork but may need a little olive oil for added moisture.
Extra Veggies? Finely grated zucchini or chopped mushrooms can be added for bulk and nutrients.
Read More: Cheesy Baked Chicken Enchiladas
Recipe Variations
Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf: Wrap slices of uncooked bacon around the loaf before baking for extra flavor and crisp texture.
Italian-Style Meatloaf: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese for a Mediterranean spin.
Spicy Tex-Mex Version: Mix in diced jalapeños, chili powder, and shredded cheddar for bold, spicy flavor.
These variations are a great way to keep dinner fresh while staying within your keto goals.
For more macro-friendly meals like this, grab your FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes and take control of your nutrition without compromising on flavor.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – 1 of 8 slices)
Calories: 320
Fat: 24 grams
Protein: 22 grams
Carbohydrates: 3 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams
Net Carbs: 2.5 grams
Sugar: Less than 1 gram
This meal is ideal for anyone tracking macros on a keto or low-carb diet. High in protein, rich in flavor, and low in carbs—exactly what your body needs for fat-burning fuel.
Read More: Curry Chicken Salad
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage:
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Slice and wrap individual portions in parchment or foil, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 1–2 minutes.
Oven: Reheat at 300°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Serving Ideas:
Pair with mashed cauliflower, roasted green beans, or steamed broccoli.
Serve cold slices over a salad with ranch or Caesar dressing.
Make keto-friendly meatloaf sandwiches with cloud bread or chaffles.
Looking for more ideas to keep your weekly meals interesting? The FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes offers creative sides and main courses that will keep your menu rotating.
Common Questions
Can I use only ground beef?
Yes, ground beef alone works fine. Use 80/20 beef to ensure enough fat content for moisture and flavor.
Is the glaze necessary?
Not at all. The meatloaf is flavorful enough on its own, but the glaze adds a nice finish and visual appeal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble the meatloaf, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What if I don’t have tomato paste?
Sugar-free ketchup or a spoonful of no-sugar-added marinara sauce can work in a pinch.
Can I make it in muffin tins?
Yes! Bake mini meatloaves in muffin tins for about 20–25 minutes. Great for portion control and freezing.
Conclusion
Keto eating doesn’t have to be restrictive, and this Keto Savory Spiced Meatloaf is the perfect example. It’s hearty, comforting, low in carbs, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re looking to feed your family, prep your meals, or simply enjoy a cozy dinner, this recipe has you covered.
If you’ve been craving familiar comfort foods but want to stay within your health goals, this meatloaf offers the best of both worlds. And once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a keto staple.
