Crockpot Meatloaf Recipe

The most amazing crockpot meatloaf recipe, made effortlessly in your slow cooker! No more waiting over an hour for dinner after a long day at work. This moist and tender meatloaf is the perfect family-friendly comfort food, packed with flavor and easy to make!

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Why This Is The Best Crockpot Meatloaf Recipe

Cooking meatloaf in the crockpot isn’t just easy; it makes it juicy and flavorful every single time. If you’ve ever struggled with dry or overcooked meatloaf, this method is a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Set it and forget it: Perfect for busy weeknights.

Ultra-tender texture: Slow cooking keeps the meatloaf from drying out.

Easy cleanup: Lining the crockpot with foil makes removal and cleaning a breeze.

Family-approved: Even picky eaters will love this classic comfort food!

Ingredients for Crockpot Meatloaf

Meatloaf:

2 lbs. ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended)
1 large yellow onion, finely minced
2 boxes (6 oz each) dried stuffing mix (savory herbs variety)
1 1/3 – 1 1/2 cups whole milk
2 large eggs
2 Tbsp glaze (see below)
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Brown Sugar Ketchup Glaze:

1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/4 cup light brown sugar
2 Tbsp finely minced onion
1 Tbsp yellow mustard
2 tsp white vinegar
1/2 tsp black pepper

How to Make Meatloaf in a Crockpot

Line the crockpot with heavy-duty aluminum foil, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the glaze: Mix all glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, minced onion, stuffing mix, milk, eggs, 2 Tbsp of glaze, salt, and pepper. Mix with your hands until just combined.
Shape the loaf: Form the mixture into an oval loaf and place it inside the crockpot.
Add glaze: Spread 1/2 cup of the glaze over the top.
Cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Broil for a crispy top: Lift the meatloaf out using the foil, place it on a baking sheet, and brush with 2/3 cup of glaze. Broil for 3-5 minutes until caramelized.
Serve with mashed potatoes and extra glaze!

Serving Suggestions

This crockpot meatloaf is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, try it with buttered corn on the cob or garlic bread. Leftovers make delicious sandwiches the next day!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Crockpot Meatloaf

Use beef with some fat: 80/20 or 85/15 works best. Leaner beef can result in a drier meatloaf.

Avoid over-mixing: Mix the meat until just combined. Over-mixing can make it tough and dense.

Use your hands: It helps combine everything evenly. If you don’t like touching raw meat, wear disposable gloves.

Milk adds richness: If you can’t use dairy, substitute with non-dairy milk, chicken broth, or beef broth.

Don’t skip the glaze: The sweet and tangy glaze makes this meatloaf irresistible.

Can This Meatloaf Be Made in the Oven?

Yes! To bake in the oven:

Follow the same instructions to mix and shape the meatloaf.
Place it in a greased meatloaf pan or baking dish.
Spread the glaze on top.
Bake at 350°F for 60-70 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beef and pork. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may produce a drier texture, so adding a splash of milk or a bit of olive oil can help maintain moisture.

Why do you use stuffing mix instead of breadcrumbs?

Stuffing mix adds extra flavor and acts as a binder to hold the meatloaf together. Since it’s already seasoned, it simplifies the recipe. If you prefer, you can use breadcrumbs, but consider adding extra seasonings to enhance the taste.

Can I cook this meatloaf on HIGH instead of LOW?

Yes, but LOW for 6 hours is recommended for the best texture. If you’re short on time, you can cook it on HIGH for 3–4 hours, but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Do I need to line the crockpot with foil?

Lining the crockpot with foil helps you easily lift the meatloaf out without breaking it apart. It also makes cleanup easier. If you prefer not to use foil, you can lightly grease the crockpot and shape the meatloaf directly inside, but be extra careful when removing it.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatloaf the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. The next day, place it in the slow cooker and cook as directed. You can also freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months just thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What side dishes go well with crockpot meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs beautifully with classic comfort sides:
. Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
. Cheesy Broccoli
. Cheesy Bacon Brussels Sprouts
. Sheet Pan Roasted Vegetables
. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Conclusion

This crockpot meatloaf recipe is the ultimate comfort food for a stress-free dinner. It’s tender, flavorful, and family-friendly, making it the best meatloaf dinner for busy nights. Whether you use ground beef, breadcrumbs, or stuffing mix, this easy crockpot recipe guarantees delicious results. Try it today and enjoy a hearty slow-cooked meal with minimal effort!

Easy Crockpot Meatloaf Juicy Full of Flavor

Easy Crockpot Meatloaf Recipe – Tender Juicy Every Time

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