The Best Gluten-Free Meatloaf Recipe
Introduction
This gluten-free meatloaf is a hearty and comforting classic made with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for family dinners and delivers rich flavor without gluten-containing ingredients. The tangy ketchup glaze adds a delicious finishing touch that everyone will love.

Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅔ cup certified gluten-free oats
- 2 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup + 3 Tbsp. gluten-free ketchup, divided
- 1 Tbsp. gluten-free Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 ½ tsp. ground mustard, divided
- ¾ tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- 1 Tbsp. brown sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a 9 x 5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, allowing an overhang on the long sides for easy removal. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and diced onion. Sauté, stirring often, until the onion is translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then remove from heat and let cool for 5-10 minutes.
- Step 3: Pulse the gluten-free oats a few times in a food processor until coarsely ground. Transfer oats to a large bowl along with the cooled onion mixture, ground beef, egg, 3 tablespoons of gluten-free ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 4: Using your hands, mix everything until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, stir together the remaining ⅓ cup gluten-free ketchup, brown sugar, and remaining ½ teaspoon ground mustard to make the glaze. Set aside.
- Step 6: Bake the meatloaf for 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes, or until cooked through. Let cool for 10 minutes before lifting out using the parchment paper handles.
Tips & Variations
- For added moisture, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground pork or turkey.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of oats if preferred.
- Add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to boost flavor and nutrition.
- Glaze can be adjusted for sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar.
Storage
Store leftover meatloaf covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe does not contain any dairy ingredients, making it naturally dairy-free and suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
What is a good side dish to serve with gluten-free meatloaf?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad pair perfectly with meatloaf to complete a comforting meal.
