Slow-Cooker Keto-Friendly Meatloaf

Slow-Cooker Keto-Friendly Meatloaf

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 6 hours on low

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended for best flavor)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup blanched almond flour (not almond meal)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons sugar-free ketchup (ensure it’s truly sugar-free, e.g., brand such as Primal Kitchen or Heinz No Sugar Added)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• Optional: Non-stick cooking spray or a sling of aluminum foil for easier removal

Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely diced onion, minced garlic, almond flour, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
   • Pro-Tip: Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough meatloaf.
2. Shape and Place: Shape the mixture into an oval or rectangular loaf that fits comfortably in the bottom of your slow cooker.
   • Optional for easy removal: You can line your slow cooker with a piece of parchment paper or create an aluminum foil sling that extends up the sides, allowing you to lift the meatloaf out easily after cooking.
3. Add Topping: Evenly spread the sugar-free ketchup over the top of the meatloaf.
4. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours.
   • Note: Cooking times can vary slightly depending on your slow cooker. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C) when fully cooked.
5. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.
6. Serve: Slice and serve warm with your favorite roasted vegetables, a fresh side salad, or cauliflower mashed potatoes.
   

   Recipe Analysis & Dietary Classification

   This meatloaf is a fantastic addition to a health-conscious recipe collection!

   • Low-Carb: Yes, this recipe is low-carb. By substituting breadcrumbs with almond flour and using sugar-free ketchup, you’ve significantly reduced the carbohydrate content compared to traditional meatloaf recipes.
   • Keto: Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly.
     • Ground Beef: Naturally keto.
     • Onion & Garlic: In the quantities used, these are well within keto limits.
     • Almond Flour: A perfect keto substitute for breadcrumbs.
     • Parmesan Cheese & Egg: Both keto-friendly binders.
     • Sugar-Free Ketchup: This is the key ingredient to ensure it’s keto. As mentioned in the ingredients, it’s vital to choose a brand that is genuinely sugar-free and low in net carbs. Some “sugar-free” options may still contain high-carb sweeteners.
   • High Protein: Absolutely, this recipe is high protein. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, making this meal very filling and beneficial for satiety and muscle maintenance, especially important for weight loss.