Crockpot Meatloaf Recipe – Easy, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

Meatloaf has earned its place at the heart of American comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. But baking it in the oven isn’t always convenient, especially on busy weeknights. That’s where the crockpot comes to the rescue. A slow cooker allows all those rich flavors to meld together while keeping the meatloaf moist and tender. No more worrying about dry meat or babysitting the oven. Just set it and forget it.

Cooking meatloaf in a crockpot brings out deep, homestyle flavor and makes cleanup a breeze. It also gives you more time to focus on other things, whether you’re juggling work, chasing kids, or just trying to relax after a long day. What’s great is that the slow-cooked version of meatloaf tastes just as good — if not better — than the traditional oven-baked kind. It’s juicy, flavorful, and develops a beautiful glaze that soaks into every slice.

Whether you’re new to slow cooking or looking for a new twist on a family favorite, this crockpot meatloaf recipe is sure to earn a permanent spot on your dinner rotation. It’s simple, flexible, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients Needed

To make a classic crockpot meatloaf, you’ll need everyday pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Below is a helpful table outlining what you’ll need, along with an approximate calorie count per serving.

Ingredient	Amount	Calories
Ground beef (85% lean)	2 pounds	1700
Onion (finely chopped)	1 medium	45
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	10
Eggs	2 large	140
Milk	½ cup	60
Bread crumbs	1 cup	120
Worcestershire sauce	2 tablespoons	20
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	0
Ketchup (for mix)	¼ cup	60
Ketchup (for glaze)	½ cup	120
Brown sugar (for glaze)	2 tablespoons	100
Dijon mustard (optional)	1 tablespoon	15

Estimated total calories (for entire meatloaf): 2390
Per serving (based on 6 servings): approx. 400 calories

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the meat mixture

Start by placing the ground beef in a large mixing bowl. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, eggs, milk, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.

2. Shape the loaf

Tear off a large piece of aluminum foil and shape the meat mixture into a loaf on top of it. The foil will help you lift the meatloaf out of the crockpot later and keep it from falling apart. Fold the sides of the foil upward to create a cradle or sling.

3. Place in the slow cooker

Transfer the foil-wrapped loaf into your slow cooker, making sure it fits snugly. If your crockpot is round, gently shape the loaf into a more compact oval to match the shape.

4. Make the glaze

In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. This sweet and tangy glaze gives the meatloaf a beautiful, sticky coating. Spread half of the glaze over the top of the loaf.

5. Cook

Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

6. Finish and serve

About 30 minutes before the end of the cook time, spread the remaining glaze on top. Let it finish cooking uncovered if your slow cooker allows it. Once done, carefully lift the meatloaf out using the foil. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Making meatloaf in the crockpot leaves plenty of room for creativity. Here are some ways you can change things up:

Swap the protein
Ground turkey or a mix of ground beef and sausage can work just as well. Turkey makes a lighter version, while sausage adds extra richness.

Add vegetables
Finely grated carrots, zucchini, or even chopped mushrooms can be mixed in with the meat. This adds nutrition and keeps the loaf moist.

Change the glaze
Try barbecue sauce instead of ketchup for a smokier flavor. You could even use a honey-mustard blend for a sweet and tangy twist.

Go gluten-free
Substitute oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a version safe for those avoiding gluten.

Make it spicy
Add a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you like a kick.

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Nutritional Information

A single serving of crockpot meatloaf (about one-sixth of the recipe) offers a good balance of protein, fats, and carbs. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 500mg

These numbers will vary based on your specific ingredients and portion size, but this gives you a general idea. It’s hearty enough to satisfy, yet balanced enough to fit into most meal plans.

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Serving Suggestions

Crockpot meatloaf pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. To keep that cozy comfort food vibe going, consider these serving ideas:

Mashed potatoes
The classic side. Creamy mashed potatoes with butter and a touch of garlic make a perfect match.

Steamed green beans
Adds color and freshness to the plate. A squeeze of lemon or sprinkle of almonds can take them up a notch.

Mac and cheese
For an ultra-comforting meal, serve your meatloaf with rich, cheesy macaroni.

Roasted vegetables
Roast some carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes in the oven for a healthier and colorful option.

Gravy on the side
Even with the glaze, some like an extra bit of savory gravy poured over each slice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes. You can mix and shape the meatloaf a day ahead. Store it in the fridge wrapped in foil, then place it in the crockpot when ready to cook.

Is it safe to cook meatloaf in a crockpot?
Absolutely. As long as the internal temperature reaches 160°F, it’s perfectly safe and thoroughly cooked.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Once cooled, wrap leftover slices in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

What kind of ground beef is best?
An 85% lean ground beef works well. It’s fatty enough to stay moist but not so greasy that the meatloaf falls apart.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from getting soggy?
Using the foil sling helps with this. You can also place a few crumpled balls of foil or an upside-down ramekin under the loaf to lift it slightly away from any juices.

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Conclusion

Few things beat the comfort of a homemade meatloaf, and using a crockpot makes the process even better. You end up with a tender, juicy, flavorful loaf that tastes like you’ve been working in the kitchen all day, even if you haven’t. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving something warm and familiar, this crockpot meatloaf delivers every time.