Imagine coming home to a house filled with the mouthwatering aroma of homemade meatloaf simmering away in your slow cooker. This slow cooker meatloaf with gravy is more than just a meal; it’s the ultimate comfort food made easy.
With minimal prep, you get a flavorful, tender meatloaf that practically melts in your mouth, thanks to the slow cooker doing its magic. The gravy, made from the savoury juices of the meatloaf, adds an extra layer of richness that transforms a simple dinner into something special.
This easy slow cooker meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy days or cozy weekends. It’s the best slow cooker meatloaf you’ll make, with a perfect balance of seasonings and a texture that’s both juicy and hearty. Pair it with Creamy Mashed Potatoes or a fresh Garden Salad for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- The slow cooker makes this homemade meatloaf incredibly easy to prepare with minimal fuss.
- The meatloaf turns out perfectly tender every time, thanks to the slow cooking method.
- The rich gravy adds a delicious finishing touch that enhances the overall flavor.
- This recipe is great for busy days when you want a comforting meal without spending much time in the kitchen.
Overview: How To Make Slow Cooker Meatloaf Recipe?
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 pound of ground pork, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion, 1/4 cup of finely chopped bell pepper (optional), 1 large egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined, but avoid overmixing.
Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf
Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it into the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of ketchup with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 4: Cook the Meatloaf
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and it is no longer pink in the center.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the meatloaf hold its shape and makes it easier to cut.
Step 6: Enjoy
Serve the meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal!
Slow Cooker Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Ground beef
- 1 Small onion diced
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp Parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Ketchup
For the Glaze:
- 3/4 cup Ketchup
- 3/4 cup Brown sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, garlic, milk, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, pepper, and 1/4 cup of ketchup. Mix gently with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape and Cook: Line your crockpot with tinfoil for easy cleanup. Place the meat mixture into the crockpot and shape it into a loaf. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 6 hours.
- Add the Glaze: Once the meatloaf is cooked, drain off any grease. Carefully lift the meatloaf out of the crockpot using the tinfoil and place it on a baking sheet.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf (you might have some left over for dipping).
- Broil for Perfection: Place the meatloaf under the broiler for a few minutes until the glaze is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Fat Content: For best results, use ground beef with at least 80/20 or 85/15 fat content. Higher fat ratios can produce more grease and cause the meatloaf to shrink.
- Meat Variations: Feel free to mix up your meats—try turkey, a blend of ground beef and pork, or Italian sausage for different flavors.
- Mixing Tip: Be gentle when combining the meat mixture. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough and chewy.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 645 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 54g |
| Protein | 33g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Cholesterol | 165mg |
| Sodium | 649mg |
| Potassium | 692mg |
Delicious Sides to Enjoy with Slow-Cooker Meatloaf!
- Crispy Roasted Breakfast Potatoes
- Mashed Lentils
- Million Dollar Mashed Potatoes
- Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread
Frequently Asked Questions for Sausage Rolls Recipe!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Yes, you can use different types of meat in your meatloaf. Ground beef is common, but you can also mix ground pork, turkey, or chicken for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure the meat is well combined and seasoned.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Meatloaf in a Slow Cooker?
Cooking meatloaf in a slow cooker typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (70°C) when it’s fully cooked.
Can I Prepare Meatloaf in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare meatloaf in advance. Shape it and place it in the slow cooker insert, then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Just add a little extra time if cooking from chilled.
How Do I Prevent Meatloaf from Getting Too Greasy?
To prevent meatloaf from getting too greasy, you can use lean ground meat and drain any excess fat during the cooking process. Additionally, you can place a few paper towels under the meatloaf in the slow cooker to absorb extra grease.