Kidney Friendly Ground Beef Meatloaf

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Kidney Friendly Ground Beef Meatloaf is perfect for a comforting, healthy meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

• Gentle on your kidneys: Made with low-sodium ingredients to keep it kidney-friendly.
• Simple and quick: Uses everyday ingredients and comes together without a fuss.
• Family-approved: A tasty dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Recipe

Kidney-friendly ground beef meatloaf is a delicious and nutritious option for those managing kidney health. This recipe is designed to be low in sodium, phosphorus, and potassium, making it suitable for a renal diet while still being flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 1/2 cup low-sodium breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, if allowed)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (as a binder)
• 1 large egg (or egg substitute)
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup low-sodium ketchup (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion (if using), applesauce, egg, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a baking sheet.
4. If desired, spread low-sodium ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes:

• Adjust portion sizes based on individual dietary needs.
• Consult with a dietitian to confirm this recipe fits your specific kidney health plan.

Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Serving: 6

Calories: Approximately 200 per serving

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

This kidney-friendly meatloaf is a nutritious option for those managing kidney health. It provides essential nutrients while being mindful of sodium and potassium levels.

What To Serve With It

I always pair my kidney-friendly meatloaf with vibrant vegetable sides, like roasted zucchini or steamed green beans, to keep things colorful and healthy. Adding a scoop of healthy grains, such as quinoa or brown rice, gives the meal a satisfying, balanced feel. It’s a simple way to make dinner feel complete without overcomplicating things.

Vegetable Sides

When I’m serving up a hearty kidney-friendly meatloaf, I always love pairing it with vibrant veggie sides that bring color, flavor, and balance to the plate. I focus on vegetable combinations that are both tasty and nutritious, like roasted carrots with a hint of thyme or steamed green beans tossed with a squeeze of lemon. Seasonal vegetables are my go-to—think zucchini in summer or roasted Brussels sprouts in fall. They’re fresh, easy to prepare, and add a pop of color to the meal. Plus, they’re a great way to keep things light and kidney-friendly while still feeling satisfying.

Healthy Grains

Pairing kidney-friendly meatloaf with healthy grains can turn a simple meal into something truly satisfying. I love using whole grains like brown rice or quinoa because they’re packed with nutrients and add a nice texture to the plate. Ancient grains, such as farro or millet, are also great options—they’re hearty and bring a unique flavor that complements the meatloaf perfectly. I often cook them with a pinch of herbs or a splash of broth for extra taste. These grains not only make the meal more filling but also keep it balanced and kidney-friendly, which is always a win in my book!