Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of perfectly cooked meatloaf, without spending hours in the kitchen. This Crock Pot Meatloaf is your ticket to an effortless, delicious meal that will have your family begging for seconds! Forget about dry, bland meatloaf – this recipe is a game-changer that combines convenience with incredible flavor, making weeknight dinners a breeze and turning even the pickiest eaters into meatloaf enthusiasts.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, finely chopped onion, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a large spoon until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that will fit comfortably inside your crock pot. Ensure the loaf is compact and evenly formed to promote consistent cooking.
- Line the bottom of the crock pot with aluminum foil or use a crock pot liner to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Carefully place the shaped meatloaf into the crock pot, ensuring it sits centrally and is not touching the sides.
- Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf, creating a glossy, flavorful topping.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set to low heat setting. Cook for 6 hours, which allows the meat to become tender and fully cooked through.
- Check the internal temperature of the meatloaf using a meat thermometer. It should reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the crock pot using the foil or liner. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice the meatloaf into 1-inch thick portions and serve hot with your preferred side dishes.
Tips
- Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense meatloaf.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and recently purchased breadcrumbs will ensure the best flavor and texture.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Foil Trick: Lining the crock pot with foil or using a liner makes removal and cleanup incredibly easy.
- Customize Your Topping: While ketchup is classic, feel free to experiment with BBQ sauce or a homemade glaze for variety.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This meatloaf can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before cooking, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 243kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
