This gluten-free meatloaf is perfectly spiced, juicy and tender. This traditional meatloaf recipe is just like mom used to make with a sweet and tangy glaze topping. The recipe also has a dairy-free option.
Gluten-Free Meatloaf
Gluten-Free Meatloaf is one of my family’s favorite meals! (especially my oldest son) Meatloaf was one of the meals that my Mom made all of the time, and it was one of my favorite meals too.
I have been making meatloaf since I was a teen, and I am happy to share my tried and true recipe for classic meatloaf made gluten-free with you.
My gluten-free meatloaf recipe is super easy to make. It’s perfectly seasoned and topped with a sweet and tangy glaze. You won’t get a dry and flavorless meatloaf with my recipe!
You can see just how easy this gluten-free meatloaf is to make in the recipe video.
How To Make Gluten-Free Meatloaf
There are only a few easy steps to make this gluten-free meatloaf!
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Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8 x 4-inch glass loaf pan with parchment paper if you do not want to slice the meatloaf in the pan.
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In a large bowl, stir together the whisked egg, breadcrumbs, seasoning mix, Worcestershire sauce, and milk and let sit for 2-3 minutes. (photo 1)
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Add the ground beef to the breadcrumb mixture, and use your hands to together to fully combine. Do not overmix the meat or the meatloaf will be tough. (photo 2)
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Add the meat mixture to a loaf pan. Pat the meat down into an even layer. (photo 3)
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In a small bowl, stir together the glaze ingredients. (photo 4)
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Pour the glaze on top of the meatloaf and spread it into an even layer. (photo 5)
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Bake on the middle rack for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°.
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Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before serving.
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Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.
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The meatloaf can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
What Type Of Pan Is Best To Cook The Meatloaf In?
My mom cooked her meatloaf in an 8 x 4-inch glass loaf pan, so that’s the type of loaf pan I have always cooked my meatloaf in. I also tested this gluten-free meatloaf recipe in a 9 x 5-inch metal loaf pan. I preferred the results of the 8 x 4-inch glass loaf pan.
If you are going to use a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan, please check your meatloaf after cooking for 1-hour. The 9 x 5-inch loaf pan makes a wider, but flatter loaf and it may need less cooking time. My husband likes his meatloaf well done, so I still cook it for the full 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Can I Make The Meatloaf On A Baking Sheet?
I have tested this recipe baking on a lined baking sheet and in a loaf pan. I prefer to use a loaf pan.
I like my meatloaf to taste a look just like the meatloaf my mom made, so the loaf pan works best for that. I feel that the loaf pan keeps all the glaze in place perfectly and that the meat is juicier baked in the loaf pan.
If you want to bake your meatloaf on a baking sheet, shape the meatloaf into a loaf shape, top with the glaze, and bake as normal.
What Are The Best Type Of Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs To Use For The Meatloaf?
Since this meatloaf has it’s own seasoning blend, I like using unseasoned gluten-free bread crumbs. You can even use gluten-free Panko bread crumbs in this recipe.
Tips For Making The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf
- Use 90% or leaner ground beef. The leaner ground beef will help keep your meatloaf from being too greasy.
- Allow the breadcrumb mixture to sit for 2-3 minutes before adding the beef. This step helps keep your meatloaf from being too dry.
- If you do not want to cut the meatloaf in the pan, line the loaf pan with a folded piece of parchment paper. (see recipe video)
Can I Make The Meatloaf Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatloaf as directed except for adding the glaze. Cover the meatloaf with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. When ready, remove for the refrigerator, add the glaze to the top of the loaf and bake as directed.
Can I Freeze The Meatloaf?
You can freeze the meatloaf before you bake it or after it is finished baking.
If you are freezing the meatloaf unbaked, wrap with foil or plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. The meatloaf can be frozen up to 3 months. Allow the meatloaf to defrost in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It’s best to add the glaze topping before baking.
If you are freezing the meatloaf after it is baked, do not wrap the loaf until it is completely cooled. Once completely cooled, wrap with foil or plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
The meatloaf can be frozen up to 3 months. Allow the meatloaf to defrost in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or oven.
Why Does Meatloaf Fall Apart?
It’s important to use gluten-free breadcrumbs as the binding ingredient in this recipe. I have not tested this recipe with gluten-free oats.
Also, if you sliced it while it was still too hot, it may fall apart. I always let my meatloaf cool for 10 minutes before slicing it.
How Can I Tell When The Meatloaf Is Done?
The meatloaf is fully cooked when the internal temperature of 160°F. If your meatloaf a little pink but is 160°F, the meatloaf is ready to eat.
Dairy-Free Cooking
I have included a dairy-free option for this gluten-free meatloaf recipe. My husband, myself and my youngest son are also dairy-free. So, now you too can enjoy a gluten-free and dairy-free meatloaf.
For the dairy-free option, I used gluten-free and dairy-free breadcrumbs and coconut milk beverage (carton, not canned). Milk is added in this meatloaf recipe to soak up the bread crumbs, and it adds moisture to the meatloaf.
I promise this gluten-free meatloaf is just as moist using a dairy-free milk subsite like almond, cashew or coconut milk.
Some of my favorite dairy-free alternatives that I like to cook with are almond, cashew or coconut milk. I also like cooking with olive oil, coconut oil or Smart Balance butter.
What Can I Serve With Gluten-Free Meatloaf?
Here are some of my favorite side dishes to serve with meatloaf.
- Gluten-Free Mashed Potatoes
- Sweet peas
- Green beans
- Easy Gluten-Free Stuffing {Dairy-Free}
- Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls {Dairy-Free Option}
More Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes To Try!
- Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings {Dairy-Free Option}
- Crispy Chicken Thighs One-Pan Meal {Gluten-Free, Paleo, Whole30, AIP}
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★Did you make this recipe? Please give it a star rating below in the comments!★
Gluten-Free Meatloaf {Dairy-Free Option}
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef (90% or leaner)
- 1 large egg, whisked
- 1 cup gluten-free bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free Worcestershire sauce (I use Lea & Perrins)
- ¼ cup milk (, dairy-free use almond, cashew or coconut milk)
Seasoning Blend
- 2 tablespoons dried chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Glaze
- ¾ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x4-inch loaf pan with parchment paper if you do not want to slice the meatloaf in the pan.
- In a large bowl stir together the whisked egg, breadcrumbs, seasoning mix, Worcestershire sauce, and milk and let sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the breadcrumb mixture, and use your hands to together to fully combine. Do not overmix the meat or the meatloaf will be tough.
- Add the meat mixture to a loaf pan. Pat the meat down into an even layer.
- In a small bowl stir together the glaze ingredients. Pour the glaze on top of the meatloaf and spread it into an even layer.
- Bake on the middle rack for 1 hour and 15 minutes for an 8x4. or until the internal temperature reaches 160°.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before cutting and serving.
- Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. The meatloaf can be reheated in the oven or microwave. The meatloaf can also be frozen.
Video
Notes
- If you are going to use a 9x5-inch loaf pan, please check your meatloaf after cooking for 1-hour.
- Store leftovers in an air-tight container in the refrigerator.
- The meatloaf can also be frozen. Defrost in the refigerator overnight. Reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Mama says, "Always check your labels!"
Jim Mann says
I am new to no wheat and gluten free diet, and your Gluten Free Meatloaf with a dairy free option was a good find. Enjoyed the meatloaf, and am glad to find a recipe that tastes good and helps me get my footing. You give me hope I can enjoy cooking delicious food on my new diet.
Brandis says
Excellent! Will be my go to recipe. I used ripple unsweetened plain milk instead of dairy milk
Jade says
Delicious meatloaf recipe, everyone loved it!
I made it using my GF sliced bread, torn into small pieces for the bread crumbs and a “flax egg”.
Amanda says
I had no GF bread crumbs, so I tried oats. Worked perfectly. Everyone loved it! Thank you!
Ruth Eggert says
Yes…My Mom never used anything else but oats…the old fashioned kind. Just make sure that your oats is made in a gluten free facility….also, notice you let it soak in the liquid, 2-3 minutes, do not skip this step…and I have used oat milk also…this is a great recipe…if you are taking it to serve to others…only thing that I would change is only 1 TBSp of onion flakes and use the tsp of onion powder and the rest of spices…this is a great recipe…you can use barbaque sauce on top for a different twist…I have also made it in a 9×13 pan…doubled the recipe for a crowd…and cut in squares…easy to serve…but the cooking time will change, because it is not as high…check at 40 minutes w/your thermometer…
Sarah says
I haven’t made this yet but planning to. is there an onion seasoning alternative? my family doesn’t like the taste of onion.
Audrey says
Hi Sarah! You can just leave out the onion seasoning. Or you can use just a little onion powder, as it is not a strong onion flavor.
Mzopatti says
My husband made this last night. It was delicious! My guests could not believe it was gluten free. We used Cauli Crunch cauliflower crumbs because the store did not have gluten free bread crumbs. Although the were pricy, it was definitely a “do again” dish. Thanks for the recipe!
Ruth Eggert says
You can use old fashioned oats, My Mom never used anything else!!…Make sure it is made in a factory that is nongluten…I like to break it up a bit in the blender and throw it in the almond milk or oat milk to soak a bit while I am gathering the other ingredients….you can also use in meatballs….I have seen people use almond flour also,,,,the gluten free bread crumbs can be expensive…you can also use the quick cook oatmeal…no need to knock it down in the blender….
Suzy says
The absolute best meatloaf that I have ever tasted and made! I followed the instructions exactly and I added GF Panko. My teen boys couldn’t believe that this was actually meatloaf and that I had made it, including the simple and flavourful sauce that goes on top. So moist! Thank you for an amazing and simple recipe!
Janice says
The best meatloaf we’ve ever had! Thank you for the delicious recipe.
Barb McKewin says
I love this meatloaf! The recipe is easy and it tastes delicious. I have served it to friends and family and they were surprised when I said “gluten-free.” Thank you for an easy recipe a beginner CAN do that tastes great!!
Brittany says
So good! My gluten/dairy eating husband said this was his favorite meatloaf we’ve ever had!
Barb McKewin says
I love this recipe and your cookbook! You give easy, especially for a beginner cook, directions. AND the food tasted GREAT! THANK YOU!!
Kristy says
I typically don’t take the time to comment on recipes but this awesome meatloaf! I have a celiac and a dairy allergy in my house. The only thing I did different is used oat milk. The recipe is perfect!
Renee Stockton says
I have made this a few times. I’m the only one in my family who is gluten-free, and staying with my sister and her family is quite the challenge as far as food. They are the pickiest eaters. Last time and tonight I used gf crackers, as I had no bread. Forgot to add the milk, so fingers crossed. It smells delicious and my boyfriend has even commented on how good it smells.
Ry says
Easy and delicious. Followed exactly but didn’t have dehydrated onions.
MaryAnn Fleury says
Used very little sugar in the glaze. The recipe is delicious. Thank you
Chris says
This was great. Used Splenda brown sugar blend and no sugar added catsup in the glaze. Served with fresh mashed potatoes and gluten free brown gravy mix with English peas. Very tasty and moist.
Stacey says
I’m not a huge fan of meatloaf and made this at the request of another. Delicious!! I can’t remember the last time I had meatloaf (maybe 20 years ago?) but I’m glad I broke that trend with this recipe. Made it with MKGF macaroni and cheese… A quality meal.
Barbara-Helen Hill says
Best meatloaf and meatballs and chicken and dumplings I’ve ever made. Thank you
Ivy Hudson says
Oh my gosh! I made this meatloaf this evening and myself and my family LOVED it! We nearly ate the entire thing! Thank you. My husband said, twice, this is a keeper recipe!
Christina says
The meatloaf was a huge hit! Absolutely scrumptious!
P Charlton says
Best Meatloaf in our lives!
Made dairy and gluten free. Glaze was amazing and I am usually not crazy about glaze. Would never leave this out again. The seasoning mix looked daunting but everyone needed. The flavor was so incredible we could not stop before seconds. I had no gluten free Worcestershire sauce so I made my own. That turned out so great that I am now considering making my own condiments. I wanted to add some crackers vs bread but only had 3|4 cup. Added 1/4 GF Pablo crumbs. Cooled for 10 minutes but still had slices break apart. Will follow your tip about using only bread next time. We din’t care. Delish!
Pat says
The best meatloaf recipe we’ve had. My husband who is not gluten free is always happy when we have this.
Shirleen Ensor says
Yummy from Hubby and for myself I made the same using Quorn intead of beef this works as well as I can’t eat alot of meat the stomach doesn’t like it .
Jennifer McKeogh says
I am currently making this recipe for the second time in a week. It is by far the BEST meatloaf recipe (gluten free or regular) that I have ever tasted! My husband has celiac disease (diagnosed at 45) and we have to modify everything we eat. The first time I made this, he said “this is one of the best things I have ever eaten in my life!”. I am lactose intolerant so we modified the recipe by using beef stock instead of milk and it was unreal. Thank you so much for this recipe! Jenn and John
Rose Bradley says
Your recipes are the greatest.. I’ve tried quite a few and I’ve never been disappointed. Thank you.
Angelica says
This recipe is a favorite in our house. I’m actually making it again tonight for dinner. We’re a family of 5 and I have been gluten-free and dairy-free since 2014 so it can be a challenge to make meals that the whole family will enjoy. I’m looking forward to trying more of your recipes. The crispy chicken thighs and Meatballs is next on my list. Thank you so much, Audrey!
Pat says
I just recently discovered this recipe and boy, is it good!! I’ve never been able to get the spices just right or the moisture just right until now. Even my husband had seconds, and he’s always suspicious of meatloaf! 🙂 Oh!! I also just ordered your cookbook and I can’t wait for it to be delivered! Thank you so so much!!
Pat says
I just discovered this gem of a recipe for meatloaf!! I could never get the seasonings right, etc. This was fantastic! Even my husband, who isn’t too sure about meatloaf, had seconds!! YAY! And, I have extra for meatloaf sandwiches for lunch. 🙂 Thank you, thank you!!
Diane Ryan says
This is fantastic! Even my picky eaters love it. Thank you!
Heather says
Excellent recipe! It was good and easy—can’t beat that!! I made some tweaks based on our eating plans and it worked beautifully!! Thank you!!
-in place of egg I used 3tbsp egg beaters
-in place of breadcrumbs, used chickpea crumbs
-in place of milk, almond milk
-in place of Worcestershire sauce, coco aminos
-for ketchup, used a sugar free ketchup
-for brown sugar, used coconut brown sugar
Taylor says
Hi Audrey (: This recipe ROCKS!! I make this often. It’s so quick to put together and always tastes amazing in the end every time!
Peggy says
I don’t eat Beef. Can I use ground chicken or turkey for the Meatloaf
Peggy
Audrey says
Hi Peggy! Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken with my recipe. You may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture because the turkey and chicken are much leaner than the beef. I hope you enjoy it!
H.L. says
This is the most flavorful meatloaf I’ve ever had! We’re not gluten free and I used plain panko breadcrumbs. I used oat milk and it worked well. My 5 year-old approved this and had seconds!
Audrey says
Thank you so much H.L. for the awesome 5-star recipe review! I am so happy that you all enjoyed the meatloaf. Thank you for sharing that you used panko breadcrumbs and oat milk, as I know it will help others. Thank you again!
Alyssa says
I make this recipe ALOT. It’s one of the easiest thing to make for dinner and everyone loves it. I use a ceramic casserole dish to cook my turkey in, I use what I have BUT I follow her recipe all the way through and it comes out great! I could eat the whole dish if I’m not careful. One of the tweaks I do though is for the top glaze sauce, I really love bbq sauce and I mixed my Sweet and tangy Stubbs bbq sauce with tomatoes paste. It comes out really good. Thanks for the recipe!
Audrey says
Thank you so much Alyssa for the awesome 5-star recipe review, it really made my day! I am so happy that you make this recipe a lot and everyone loves it. Thank you for sharing the bbq sauce tip, as I know it will help others. I like meatloaf with bbq sauce too. You are so welcome, I love sharing what I make for my family. Thank you again!
Cindy says
Hi Audrey, love this meatloaf recipe, I can’t use Worcestershire sauce I’m allergic to it so I use bbq sauce and comes out great thx
Audrey says
Thank you so much Cindy for the awesome 5-star recipe review! I am so happy that you love the meatloaf recipe. Thank you for sharing what you use in place of the Worcestershire sauce, as I know it will help others. Thanks again!
Tanna says
Full on Bliss!
Audrey says
Thank you so much Tanna for the awesome 5-star recipe review! I am so happy that you enjoyed the meatloaf. Thanks again!