Over the last four years, our family has switched from plastic to glass containers, gone from traditional household cleaners to all-natural, plant-based versions and are eating foods we had never heard of before. We kind of feel like a lot of these changes are steps back to the way things used to be; free of processing, harmful additives and “helpful” conveniences that many believe are the root of some more common health conditions, including auto-immune disorders, increased rates in food allergies and asthma, autism, ADHD and more.
And while some things have changed quite a bit for our little family, we still find ourselves craving some of the same old comfort foods. Like meatloaf.
I grew up on meatloaf; we had it once a week, and I was always a big fan. A perfectly warm, juicy slice of meatloaf with a sweet(ish) glaze for dinner that turned into a cold meatloaf sandwich the next day (if you were lucky enough to have any left over). Fast forward to my grown up, gluten-free, Paleo version and I still love it! My son is a fan too, which is always a good sign since he is sometimes a picky (8 year old) eater.
Since I’m avoiding grains, dairy and eggs, this updated meatloaf calls for an egg replacer and uses apples to help keep the meal moist, and add some healthy carbs to the dish. I also love to add a touch of Coconut Aminos to give this dish an ever-so-slight but delicious flavor twist.
Alongside our meatloaf, we love a warm Roasted Fig and Pistachio salad and grilled asparagus or lightly steamed carrots with ghee. Feel free to play around with the spices to suit your tastes, and remember this pairs perfectly with our Paleo BBQ Sauce or Ketchup. Leftovers? Just like meatloaf of my past, this version makes a yummy cold sandwhich on top of gluten free bread, or wrapped in lettuce wrap as I prefer it.
Easy, healthy and delish. My 3 fave food requirements 🙂
Enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (Organic or grass fed preferred)
- 1/2 small red apple, diced (skin removed)
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1 Tsp chopped garlic
- Oregano, salt & pepper to taste
- 1 large egg or egg replacer
- Dash of Coconut Aminos (optional)
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in large bowl except egg, making sure to mix well.
- Whisk egg and fold into meat mixture.
- Shake about 5-6 shakes of Coconut Aminos into mixture (approx 1 tsp)
- Form into a loaf and place in glass or metal loaf pan.
- Bake on 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes (times and temp vary by oven).
- Remove and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Options: top with Paleo BBQ sauce or Ketchup recipes found here
Thank you for this! I just started being gluten free (trying for 2 weeks) to see how it goes. I love looking at recipes, so this is perfect. I was also just at Whole Foods yesterday trying to figure out what sauces I could get (ketchup in particular) and then gave up so your post is super timely. Look forward to reading more!
Hi Karen,
I find many store-bought ketchups to be gluten free, but not paleo, so if you’re following a gluten-free diet, look for the organic/natural brands which should contain tomato puree, sugar and some spices. Of course, if you don’t mind making your own, that’s always best! Welcome to gluten-freedom 🙂
Jennifer, The bread crumbs are just a filler, the egg is what holds it together. The apple is in place of the bread/oatmeal to help be a filler and give you some natural carbs without eating grains.
I grew-up with meatloaf too:)
Hi Carol,
I think most of us did! I was worried about how it would hold together without bread crumbs, but it turns out this version holds up just fine. I hope you like it 🙂
@conqueredthesky here’s a link to a Paleo meatloaf. Don’t know if it’s any good, but no bread crumbs http://t.co/raFEHomf
Thanks! It’s in the oven as I type….can’t wait to try it!
Hope you loved them! I just posted a similar recipe for meatballs that you might like too 🙂 Enjoy!
Making this for the second time tonight! My husband was disappointed that he has closing shift and so can't eat it with us. Which is amazing because he has been against meatloaf until your recipe!
So glad you like it! It’s great to have meatloaf again 🙂 thanks for letting me know!!