Paleo diet recipes are all about natural, whole foods that help keep you feeling satisfied without grains, dairy, or processed ingredients. If you’re craving a hearty dinner that fits the bill, this easy paleo meatloaf might just be the star of your weekly meal rotation. It comes together with staples like ground meat, fresh veggies, and a few smart substitutes for breadcrumbs. You’ll get a moist, flavorful loaf that satisfies without the fuss. Let’s dig into how to make it.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to gather:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey if you prefer)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup diced mushrooms (optional but adds moisture)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup almond flour (replaces breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (look for sugar-free to keep it Paleo-friendly)
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (a good substitute for soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (helps bind everything together)
If you like a little kick, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika. Feel free to experiment with herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for extra aroma.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grab a loaf pan or line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, mushrooms, garlic, almond flour, and all seasonings. Add the tomato paste, coconut aminos, and egg.
- Use clean hands to gently incorporate all ingredients. Avoid overmixing or the loaf can turn dense.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared pan or on the lined tray.
- Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices and makes slicing cleaner.
Nutrition Facts
Below is an approximate breakdown per serving (based on six servings):
| Nutrient | Approx. Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Protein | ~20g |
| Fat | ~14g |
| Carbohydrates | ~6g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
| Sugar | ~2g |
Keep in mind, your exact numbers may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use and whether you choose add-ons like mushrooms.
Final Thoughts
This loaf is a prime example of how flavor and simplicity can coexist in Paleo diet recipes. Just a few powerful spices, healthy add-ins, and the right baking temperature create a delicious meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. You can pair it with roasted veggies, cauliflower mash, or a fresh salad to keep things 100% Paleo-friendly. If you have leftover slices, they make a quick lunch option the next day—just reheat or enjoy them cold in a lettuce wrap.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different binder if I don’t have almond flour?
- Absolutely. Coconut flour can work, but use a little less since it’s more absorbent. You can also try ground flaxseed or even finely chopped nuts.
Do I need to add mushrooms?
- No, mushrooms are optional. They boost the moisture factor, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave them out.
How long does this meatloaf last?
- Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it typically keeps for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for about two months.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prep the loaf the night before and bake it the next day. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to pop it in the oven.
Paleo Diet Recipes for Easy Paleo Meatloaf
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey if you prefer)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup diced mushrooms (optional but adds moisture)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup almond flour (replaces breadcrumbs)
2 tablespoons tomato paste (look for sugar-free to keep it Paleo-friendly)
1 tablespoon coconut aminos (a good substitute for soy sauce)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg (helps bind everything together)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grab a loaf pan or line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onion, mushrooms, garlic, almond flour, and all seasonings. Add the tomato paste, coconut aminos, and egg.
- Use clean hands to gently incorporate all ingredients. Avoid overmixing or the loaf can turn dense.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared pan or on the lined tray.
- Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let the meatloaf rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices and makes slicing cleaner.