Meatloaf is a classic comfort food, loved for its hearty, savory flavor and satisfying texture. While traditional oven-baked meatloaf is delicious, using a slow cooker takes it to the next level—ensuring a moist, tender, and flavorful dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, Slow Cooker Meatloaf is a game-changer.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the perfect Slow Cooker Meatloaf, from ingredients and preparation to cooking tips and serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!
Why Make Meatloaf in a Slow Cooker?
Using a slow cooker to prepare meatloaf has several benefits:
- Extra Moist and Juicy – The slow cooking process prevents the meat from drying out, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
- Hands-Off Cooking – Simply mix, shape, and let the slow cooker do the work while you focus on other tasks.
- Even Cooking – Unlike oven-baked meatloaf, which can sometimes cook unevenly, a slow cooker ensures even heat distribution for perfect results.
- Better Flavor Infusion – Slow cooking allows all the seasonings and spices to meld together, enhancing the taste.
- No Overheating the Kitchen – Ideal for hot summer days when you want a hearty meal without turning on the oven.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Meatloaf
To make the best Slow Cooker Meatloaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Meatloaf Mixture:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend for best texture)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk (keeps the meatloaf moist)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds richness)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Use clean hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together until well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
2. Shape the Meatloaf
Place a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil inside the slow cooker to help lift the meatloaf out easily after cooking. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the slow cooker.
3. Prepare and Apply the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Spread half of the glaze over the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.
4. Cook the Meatloaf
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Apply More Glaze and Broil (Optional)
For a caramelized glaze, carefully transfer the cooked meatloaf to a baking sheet, brush with the remaining glaze, and broil in the oven for 3-5 minutes until slightly browned.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each slice tender and moist.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Meatloaf
- Use a meat thermometer – Ensuring an internal temperature of 160°F guarantees doneness without overcooking.
- Don’t skip the breadcrumbs and milk – These ingredients work together to bind the meatloaf and keep it moist.
- Shape the loaf properly – A compact but not overly packed shape ensures even cooking.
- Avoid excess grease – Placing a few slices of bread at the bottom of the slow cooker absorbs excess fat.
Variations to Try
1. Turkey Meatloaf
Swap ground beef for ground turkey and use chicken broth instead of milk for a leaner option.
2. Cheesy Meatloaf
Add a layer of shredded cheese in the center of the meatloaf before shaping it for a gooey surprise.
3. Spicy BBQ Meatloaf
Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce and add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Low-Carb/Keto Meatloaf
Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and heavy cream instead of milk for a keto-friendly version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Slow Cooker Meatloaf with classic sides such as:
- Mashed potatoes – Creamy and buttery for the perfect comfort meal.
- Steamed vegetables – A healthy balance to the richness of meatloaf.
- Mac and cheese – For a decadent Southern-style dinner.
- Green salad – Adds freshness and crunch to your plate.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—effortless, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless variations, you’ll never get tired of this classic dish!
Slow Cooker Meatloaf
Description
This Slow Cooker Meatloaf is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make! Perfectly seasoned ground beef slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender and moist meatloaf. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, this hassle-free recipe brings comfort food straight to your table.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
For the Glaze:
Instructions
Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and oregano. Mix until well combined but do not overwork the meat.
Shape the Meatloaf
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a sheet of parchment paper or foil for easy transfer.
Place in Slow Cooker
- Transfer the shaped meatloaf into the slow cooker. Spread 1/4 cup of ketchup over the top.
Cook on Low
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours (or high for 3-4 hours) until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Add the Glaze
- Mix ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Spread the glaze over the meatloaf and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Rest and Serve
- Remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 355.24kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18.49g29%
- Saturated Fat 6.87g35%
- Trans Fat 0.89g
- Cholesterol 117.7mg40%
- Sodium 590.11mg25%
- Potassium 458.94mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 28.37g10%
- Dietary Fiber 1.41g6%
- Sugars 12.71g
- Protein 18.83g38%
- Vitamin A 52.1 IU
- Vitamin C 3.27 mg
- Calcium 101.28 mg
- Iron 3.24 mg
- Vitamin D 0.67 IU
- Vitamin E 0.86 IU
- Vitamin K 4.79 mcg
- Thiamin 0.24 mg
- Riboflavin 0.36 mg
- Niacin 4.95 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.38 mg
- Folate 24.9 mcg
- Vitamin B12 1.92 mcg
- Phosphorus 219.85 mg
- Magnesium 33.34 mg
- Zinc 3.83 mg
* Nutrition information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate based on available ingredients and serving sizes. Variations in ingredients and portion sizes may affect the actual values. Always consult a nutritionist or healthcare provider for specific dietary advice.
Note
Notes:
- For extra moisture, add 1/4 cup grated zucchini or carrots.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture.
- To store, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
