Description
This kidney‐friendly ground beef meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Made with lean ground beef, low‐sodium ingredients, and a medley of carefully chosen vegetables, it’s crafted to support kidney health without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy a moist, well‐seasoned meatloaf paired with your favorite kidney-friendly sides.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb lean ground beef (preferably 90% lean)
- 1/2 cup low‐sodium breadcrumbs (or homemade low‐sodium bread crumbs)
- 1 small egg (or substitute with egg white)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (for moisture)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional; reduce if sensitive)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp salt‐free seasoning blend
- 1 tbsp low‐sodium Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- For the glaze:
- 2 tbsp low‐sodium ketchup
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- A pinch of dried oregano
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, applesauce, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, basil, thyme, black pepper, salt‐free seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Mix gently until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
- Form the Loaf: Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
- Apply Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and oregano. Evenly spread this glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake: Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Rest & Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Moisture Boost: If the meat mixture feels too dry, add a splash of low‐sodium beef broth.
- Seasoning Adjustments: Taste and adjust herbs if needed, but avoid adding extra salt.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with kidney-friendly sides such as steamed green beans, cauliflower rice, or a fresh mixed salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: kidney-friendly, meatloaf, ground beef, low sodium, kidney diet