Classic Slow Cooker Meatloaf
This classic slow cooker meatloaf recipe delivers a tender and flavorful meatloaf with minimal effort. Using a slow cooker ensures a moist result every time, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Large Bowl
- Small Bowl
- Whisk
- Instant-Read Thermometer
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- ½ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Glaze
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare Slow Cooker
- Line your slow cooker with a slow cooker liner or spray it with non-stick spray. Create a foil sling or use crumpled aluminum foil balls to elevate the meatloaf slightly.
Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, ¼ cup ketchup, ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Form and Place Loaf
- Shape the meat mixture into an oblong loaf and carefully place it on top of the foil sling or balls in the slow cooker.
Make Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ¼ cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until smooth.
Glaze and Cook
- Pour or spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Final Glaze (Optional)
- About 30 minutes before cooking ends, spread the remaining glaze over the meatloaf for a fresher, more vibrant topping.
Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, turn off the slow cooker and let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before carefully removing and slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
For easy cleanup, always use a slow cooker liner or spray the pot well. Do not overmix the meatloaf mixture to ensure a tender result. The foil sling or crumpled foil balls are crucial for preventing the meatloaf from cooking in its own grease and for easier removal.