This Slow Cooker Meatloaf is a cozy comfort dish, packed with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and tasty spices. It cooks slowly, making it juicy and full of flavor. Yum!
I love how the house smells while it’s cooking. Plus, you just toss everything in and forget about it! Perfect for busy days when you want a warm meal waiting for you.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 85% lean for a good balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking to cut fat, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though it may be a bit drier.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but feel free to use Italian breadcrumbs for a flavor boost. For gluten-free options, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
Ketchup: This adds sweetness and moisture. If you prefer, BBQ sauce can be used instead for a different flavor profile, or a homemade tomato sauce could work too!
Onions & Garlic: Fresh is best, but you can use garlic powder and onion powder if you’re short on fresh ingredients. Just adjust the quantities to your taste.
How Do You Ensure the Meatloaf Stays Tender?
Mixing the ingredients gently is key! Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf. Just combine until everything is nicely mixed. Another trick is to include moisture—like milk or eggs, which help keep the loaf tender.
- Choose the right ground meat and don’t overwork the mixture.
- Let it rest before slicing; this helps keep the juices in.
- If possible, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 160°F (71°C).
These steps help you achieve a deliciously tender and flavorful meatloaf every time! Serve your creation with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
Slow Cooker Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably 85% lean)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup ketchup, plus extra for topping
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for glaze)
Time Estimate
You will need about 15 minutes for preparation and then either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for cooking in the slow cooker. So, it’s perfect to set it and forget it while you go about your day!
Instructions
1. Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, eggs, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, parsley, thyme, and oregano. Gently mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your meatloaf tender!
2. Shape the Meatloaf
With the mixture assembled, shape it into a loaf that will fit well into your slow cooker. Make sure it’s not too tall, or it won’t cook evenly.
3. Cooking the Meatloaf
Place your formed meatloaf into the slow cooker. Now, let’s prepare the glaze! In a small bowl, mix together about 1/3 cup of ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard until smooth, then spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
4. Set It to Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Check that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Serve
Once cooked, carefully lift the meatloaf out of the slow cooker using a spatula and transfer it to a serving plate. Allow it to rest for about 5 to 10 minutes before slicing, as this will help it hold together better.
6. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve your delicious meatloaf with sides like creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans, garnished with fresh parsley or rosemary for a touch of color. Enjoy this comforting family meal!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for This Meatloaf?
Yes! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey and chicken may result in a drier meatloaf, so adding a bit more moisture, like extra milk or even some grated vegetables, can help.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Without Eggs?
Absolutely! If you need to avoid eggs, you can use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a binder. Alternatively, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or mashed potato can work too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual slices or warm it up in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze meatloaf either cooked or uncooked. If freezing cooked, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It should be good for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it as mentioned above.
