Imagine a meatloaf so tender, so juicy, and so packed with unexpected flavor that it transforms your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Slow Cooker Applesauce Meatloaf is not just another recipe – it's a game-changing dish that combines the classic comfort of traditional meatloaf with a sweet and tangy twist that will have your family begging for seconds. Forget dry, boring meatloaves of the past – this recipe is about to revolutionize your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 1 lb of ground beef, 1 cup of applesauce, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of chopped onion, 1 egg, 1 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of pepper, 1/2 tsp of garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp of Worcestershire sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, applesauce, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Using your hands or a spatula, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into a loaf form. You can make it as thick or as thin as you prefer, but a standard thickness is about 2 inches.
- Prepare your slow cooker by spraying the inside with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Place the shaped meatloaf into the slow cooker, ensuring it fits comfortably without touching the sides.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the meatloaf to cook for approximately 6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the lid and check the meatloaf for doneness. If it’s not fully cooked, cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- When the meatloaf is done, carefully lift it out of the slow cooker using a spatula or tongs. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve the slow cooker applesauce meatloaf warm, and enjoy it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: Use ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) to ensure your meatloaf stays moist and flavorful.
- Don't Overmix: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep the texture light and tender. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough and dense.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Enhance the Flavor: Consider adding a glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking. A mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce can add an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Prep Ahead: You can mix the meatloaf ingredients the night before and refrigerate, making dinner preparation even easier.
- Let it Rest: Always let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Slow Cooker Liner Hack: Use a slow cooker liner or parchment paper sling for easy removal and cleanup.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
