Here’s a simple and delicious slow cooker meatloaf recipe that’s tender, flavorful, and easy to make 🍽️
🥩 Slow Cooker Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (or mix beef + pork for extra flavor)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the meatloaf mixture
- In a large bowl, combine: ground meat, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, milk, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
- Mix gently until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep meatloaf tender).
2. Shape and place in slow cooker
- Form mixture into a loaf shape that fits your slow cooker.
- Place the meatloaf in the slow cooker insert (you can line with parchment paper for easier cleanup).
3. Add topping
- Spread 2 tbsp of ketchup over the top of the loaf.
- Optional: drizzle a little brown sugar or barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
4. Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Serve
- Carefully remove meatloaf from slow cooker.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or your favorite side.
Tips for Success
- Avoid opening the lid too often—the slow cooker loses heat, increasing cooking time.
- For extra flavor, saute onions and garlic before adding to the mix.
- If you like a crispy top, briefly broil the meatloaf in the oven for 3–5 minutes after cooking.
If you want, I can make a quick 4-ingredient version of slow cooker meatloaf that’s ready with minimal prep and still tastes amazing.
Do you want me to do that?
