Meat Loaf In Crock-Pot
A hearty and comforting slow-cooked meatloaf packed with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners. The tender ground beef is combined with eggs, bread, and milk to create a moist loaf, then cooked with vegetables and topped with barbecue sauce for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that suits all tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ground beef in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whip one egg for each pound of meat.
- Add broken-up bread pieces to the whipped eggs.
- Mix in 1/2 cup of milk for each pound of meat into the egg mixture.
- Combine the liquid mixture with the ground beef and shape into a loaf.
- Place the meatloaf in the middle of the crock-pot.
- Add desired vegetables such as carrots and potatoes around the loaf.
- Cook in the crock-pot until the meatloaf is cooked through, approximately 4 hours.
- Optional: Serve with Kraft barbecue sauce on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful meatloaf, consider adding finely chopped onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the ground beef mixture. If you're out of bread, crushed crackers or oats can serve as a substitute. To enhance the taste, try incorporating spices like Worcestershire sauce or Italian seasoning. Using lean ground beef will yield a healthier meatloaf, and feel free to experiment with different types of barbecue sauce for varied flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. For an extra touch, serve it with a drizzle of Kraft barbecue sauce on top. You can also slice it for sandwiches the next day, making it a great option for lunch. Consider browsing more American recipes for complementary side dishes to complete your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and place it on a microwave-safe plate, covering it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave in short intervals until heated through. Alternatively, reheat slices in a skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf In Crock-Pot contains roughly 203 calories, with 5g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, pork, or chicken can be used as alternatives to beef. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as leaner meats may require adjustments. Additionally, mixing meats can create a unique flavor profile—try blending ground beef with ground pork for a delicious twist.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the meatloaf is done is by using a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the center; the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink meat. Cooking times can vary based on the size of the loaf, so always check.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld for an even tastier dish. You can also freeze the uncooked meatloaf; just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).