Imagine coming home to a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen with the promise of a hearty, delicious meal. This isn't just any meatloaf - it's a game-changing recipe that elevates the classic comfort food to a whole new level. By incorporating rich, umami-packed shiitake mushrooms and using the magic of slow cooking, we've transformed the humble meatloaf into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family begging for seconds. Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with this incredibly easy and irresistibly tasty slow cooker meatloaf!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the shiitake mushrooms and onion into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped shiitake mushrooms, breadcrumbs, ketchup, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until they are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Once the mixture is combined, shape it into a loaf form. You can make it as long or as short as you prefer, but aim for a uniform shape to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare your slow cooker by lightly greasing the bottom and sides with cooking spray or a small amount of oil. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Place the shaped meatloaf into the slow cooker. If desired, you can spread a little extra ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture during cooking.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and the meatloaf to become tender.
- After 8 hours, check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption. If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, checking periodically.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker using a spatula or tongs. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier meatloaf.
- Slice the meatloaf into servings and serve warm. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Make sure your ground beef is cold when mixing to help the ingredients bind better and create a more tender texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overworking the meat can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Line Your Slow Cooker: For even easier cleanup, consider using a slow cooker liner or parchment paper.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different mushroom varieties or add herbs like thyme or parsley for extra depth of flavor.
- Freezer-Friendly: This meatloaf freezes beautifully, so don't hesitate to make a double batch for future easy meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
