Description
This Crockpot Meatloaf is a comforting and hearty meal that cooks itself slowly to deliver a tender, juicy loaf packed with classic flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines simple ingredients with the convenience of a slow cooker, making it a family-friendly dish that’s easy to customize and enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
- 1 cup bread crumbs (or almond flour/gluten-free panko for gluten-free)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, diced onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently and thoroughly to evenly distribute ingredients without overworking the meat to maintain tenderness.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape that fits snugly into your crockpot insert for even cooking and moisture retention.
- Add Sauce Topping: Spread an additional layer of ketchup or your favorite meatloaf sauce over the top of the loaf to create a glossy, tangy finish as it cooks.
- Cook Low and Slow: Place the crockpot on low heat and cook the meatloaf for 6 to 8 hours, allowing it to become juicy and tender without needing to flip.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the meatloaf rest, covered in the crockpot, for 10 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute for moist, flavorful slices.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and fat balance.
- Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough meatloaf.
- Ensure your crockpot size fits the meatloaf snugly for even cooking.
- Adding a sauce topping creates a sticky, flavorful glaze on top.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 160°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of loaf)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 110mg