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Slow Cooker Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 97 reviews

This Slow Cooker Meatloaf recipe offers a hearty, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and full of classic flavors. Combining ground beef with a mix of veggies, seasonings, and a tangy homemade ketchup glaze, this meatloaf cooks low and slow in your crockpot, ensuring tender, juicy results with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a traditional American favorite without heating up the oven.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup diced white onion
  • 1 cup diced red or green bell pepper
  • ⅓ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 25 saltine crackers, crushed
  • 2 lbs ground beef (7% – 10% fat)

Glaze/Sauce

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine the eggs, diced onion, diced bell pepper, ⅓ cup ketchup, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the crushed saltine crackers and mix everything together thoroughly using clean hands. Next, add the ground beef and gently mix until all ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overwork the meat.
  2. Shape and place in slow cooker: Lightly spray the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it carefully in the slow cooker. The mixture should hold its shape without falling apart; add more crushed saltines if it feels too wet.
  3. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW heat for 5 to 6 hours. Do not lift the lid during the cooking time, as this can slow down the cooking process.
  4. Remove excess fat: When cooking time is complete, carefully scoop out and discard any excess fat that has pooled on top of the meatloaf.
  5. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Spoon this glaze evenly over the meatloaf in the slow cooker.
  6. Heat the glaze: Cover the slow cooker again and cook on LOW for an additional 30 minutes to warm through the glaze and meld the flavors.
  7. Serve: Once finished, carefully remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy your tender, flavorful slow cooker meatloaf!

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
  • If the meat mixture is too loose, add a few more crushed saltine crackers to bind it better.
  • Do not open the slow cooker lid during cooking, as it can extend cooking time.
  • Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • For a lower fat option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
  • The glaze is customizable—try adding a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Keywords: slow cooker meatloaf, crockpot meatloaf, easy meatloaf recipe, comfort food, ground beef meatloaf

Find it online: https://ellaeatsdaily.com/slow-cooker-meatloaf-recipe/