How to Make a Mouth-Watering Paleo-Friendly Meatloaf with Grass-Fed Beef
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re someone who cares deeply about what goes into your body. You know that eating healthily isn’t just a trend; it’s a lifestyle. When it comes to whipping up a delicious, nutritious meal, few things beat the classic comfort of a meatloaf. But not just any meatloaf – a Paleo-friendly version that swaps out the traditional ingredients for choices that align with a Paleo lifestyle.
What’s the twist? Grass-fed beef. It’s leaner, packed with more nutrients, and comes from cows that graze freely (happy cows indeed!). Plus, considering that Paleo emphasizes eating like our ancestors, choosing grass-fed beef gets you as close to their diet as possible.
Without further ado, let’s dive into making this scrumptious dish that’ll delight your taste buds without breaking the Paleo code.
Ingredients
To start, gather up the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of grass-fed ground beef: The star of the show. Grass-fed beef is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A and E.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds texture and flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings in that aromatic punch.
- 1 cup of almond flour: Unlike traditional bread crumbs, almond flour is gluten-free and Paleo-approved, adding great texture.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder to hold our loaf together.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk: Keeps the meatloaf moist without adding dairy.
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For that subtle kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: A nod to the herby, earthy flavors our ancestors loved.
- A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Brings freshness and color.
Instructions
Now that we’re all set with our ingredients, it’s time to get our hands dirty (figuratively speaking, of course!). Follow these simple steps:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a roaring hot start for our meatloaf, locking in flavors.
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Mix the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, garlic, almond flour, eggs, almond milk, tomato paste, sea salt, black pepper, and thyme. If you’re including parsley, toss that in too. Mix everything well until it’s just combined. Avoid overmixing, as that could lead to a tough meatloaf.
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Shape & Pan. Grab your favorite loaf pan and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Transfer your meat mixture into the pan, shaping it into a loaf. Remember, meatloaf is rustic, so it doesn’t need to be perfect. It’s the imperfections that add to the charm!
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Bake! Slide your pan into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the meatloaf feels firm to the touch and has a beautiful golden color. For those who like precision, a meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) when inserted into the center.
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Rest & Serve. After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This short waiting game lets the juices redistribute, making every slice moist and flavorful. Then, slice it up, garnish if desired, and serve!
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Enjoy. Pair your Paleo-friendly meatloaf with some steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal. And, of course, enjoy every healthful, hearty bite!
Conclusion
Who said following a Paleo lifestyle means missing out on comfort foods? This Paleo-friendly meatloaf is a testament to how delicious and satisfying eating healthy can be. It’s proof that with a few tweaks, traditional dishes can be transformed into modern healthful meals that align with your well-being goals.
This grass-fed beef meatloaf packs not just flavor but a hefty nutritional punch, proving that you don’t have to compromise on taste for health. So, give this recipe a whirl, and let your dining table be a place where the past meets the present in the most delicious way possible. Bon Appétit!
