Meat Loaf In Slow Cooker
Tender and flavorful, this slow-cooked meat loaf is a comforting classic that combines ground beef with savory vegetables and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, it pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes, making it a hearty meal that satisfies every appetite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except potatoes in a large bowl.
- Shape mixture into a loaf.
- Grease the crock-pot.
- Wrap potatoes in foil and place them in the bottom of the crock-pot.
- Cut the potatoes in half, but do not peel.
- Place the meat loaf on top of the rack in the crock-pot.
- To make a full meal, use an aluminum pie pan that fits on top and add your vegetables.
- Add butter to the vegetables and wrap the pie tin in foil.
- Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you lack cracker crumbs, crushed breadcrumbs or oats can work as a substitute. To enhance the taste, mix in some Worcestershire sauce or barbecue sauce into the meat mixture. Remember to keep an eye on the cooking time, as slow cooker models can vary. This meat loaf pairs beautifully with Angie Weis' Prize Winning Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meat loaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Mashed potatoes or a creamy coleslaw also complement this dish nicely. For a comforting twist, try serving it with Vegetable Stock Soup. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meat loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered to retain moisture. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Loaf In Slow Cooker contains roughly 912 calories, with 15g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (81% of the Daily Value), potassium (63% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1316mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
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 meats instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats for different flavor profiles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as leaner meats may cook faster.
What can I do if I don't have a slow cooker?
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can bake the meat loaf in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until fully cooked. Just place the wrapped potatoes in a separate baking dish.
How do I know when the meat loaf is done?
The meat loaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). A meat thermometer is the best tool for this. Additionally, it should be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center.
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).