Whole30 Meatloaf Recipe

Meatloaf can sometimes feel heavy, over-processed, or loaded with breadcrumbs and additives—and that’s why this version stands out. This Whole30-compliant recipe uses grass-fed ground beef, chopped mushrooms, grated onion, fresh parsley, almond flour, and Whole30-compliant ketchup to reinvent the classic meatloaf into a clean, modern dinner that still delivers comfort.

Because there’s no wheat-based filler or bread crumbs, and the binding comes from almond flour and eggs (rather than flour), this whole30 meatloaf qualifies as gluten-free when you choose all certified ingredients. The omission of dairy and use of ghee also keeps it dairy-free–friendly. It’s an ideal main course when you want something hearty and meat-forward yet aligned with cleaner-eating goals.

With about 15 minutes of active prep and around two hours total (including bake and rest time), this loaf is weeknight approachable yet special enough for a Sunday dinner. The mixture of mushrooms and spices deepens flavor, while the ketchup glaze layer gives the familiar “home-style” look and taste without compromising your ingredient standards.

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Whole30 Meatloaf

Recipe Details

Yield: 6 to 8 servings
Active Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours

Whole30 Meatloaf Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons ghee
• 1 medium onion, grated
• 1 cup mushrooms, coarsely chopped
• 2 ½ teaspoons sea salt, divided
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 eggs
• ⅓ cup almond flour
• ½ cup Whole30-compliant ketchup, divided
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Whole30 Meatloaf

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Melt ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté for 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and 1 teaspoon salt, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes more, or until onions are soft and mushrooms have browned; let cool.
3. Add ground beef, eggs, almond flour, ¼ cup ketchup, parsley, black pepper, red pepper flakes, 1 ½ teaspoons salt, and cooled vegetables. Gently mix with your hands until incorporated; don’t overmix.
4. Place the mixture into a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove and baste with remaining ¼ cup ketchup. Return to oven for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until center reaches 160°F.
6. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing, and sprinkle with additional parsley before serving.

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Whole30 Meatloaf Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 8 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1/8 of meatloaf
Calories	≈ 400 kcal
Protein	≈ 30 g
Carbs	≈ 10 g
Sugar	≈ 5 g
Fiber	≈ 2 g
Fat	≈ 27 g

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Meatloaf Variations & Tips

• Mix in veggies: Finely dice bell pepper or carrot and add into the meat mixture for color and extra nutrients.
• Nut-free alternative: Replace almond flour with sunflower-seed flour to keep the loaf nut-free while maintaining texture.
• Spice uplift: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the mix if you like a subtle smoky edge.
• Glaze tweak: Use a sugar-free, compliant barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a tangier finish.
• Make ahead: Mix the loaf the night before, keep covered in loaf pan, and bake fresh the next day—flavors will mature while resting.
• Rest time matters: Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing so juices redistribute and slices hold together beautifully.

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Best Meatloaf Pairings

• Mashed cauliflower or mashed sweet potato: A low-carb but creamy side that echoes classic meatloaf pairings.
• Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts: Green vegetables lighten the plate and add crunch or char.
• Simple mixed-leaf salad with lemon vinaigrette: Bright acidity helps balance the richness of the loaf.
• Gluten-free dinner rolls or slices of gluten-free bread: Ideal for sopping up any glaze or juices.
• Chilled white wine or a light red (like Pinot Noir): Complements the beef and mushroom depth without overpowering.

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When to Make Meatloaf

• Weeknight family dinners: Simple, wholesome and satisfying—ideal when you want comfort food done well.
• Casual Sunday supper: Feel-good, rustic and flavorful—perfect for gathering around the table with ease.
• Gluten-free or clean-eating menus: A centerpiece main that fits dietary needs without feeling “light.”
• Leftover lunches: Slice and use in wraps or salads for next-day meals that stay interesting.
• Potluck dinners: Transport slices, re-warm gently, and bring a home-style dish that stands out without relying on heavy carbs.

Recipe credit: Angela Gaines