I still remember the first time I pulled a steaming meatloaf out of my slow cooker—it filled the kitchen with a cozy, homey aroma that made everyone gather around the table. Inspired by my love for simple, family-friendly meals, this slow cooker meatloaf recipe is quick, easy, and fully customizable. With options like potatoes, onion soup mix, or a savory glaze, it’s the perfect comfort dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This slow cooker meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food that brings ease and flavor together in one hearty dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow cooker meatloaf cooks slowly to stay juicy, tender, and packed with savory goodness. You can customize it with onion soup mix, a ketchup glaze, or even layer in potatoes for a complete meal. Families love this slow cooker meatloaf because it’s simple to prepare, hands-off, and delivers consistent results every time.
The beauty of this slow cooker meatloaf is its versatility—you can make it classic, cheesy, or loaded with vegetables, making it ideal for picky eaters or those craving a wholesome, filling dinner. From beginner cooks to seasoned home chefs, this slow cooker meatloaf is forgiving, practical, and incredibly satisfying. Once you try this slow cooker meatloaf, it will become a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, and special occasions, proving that slow cooking delivers convenience without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients for This Recipe
The ingredients for this slow cooker meatloaf are simple, accessible, and designed to create a moist, flavorful meal. Ground beef provides a rich base, while breadcrumbs and eggs bind the loaf together, keeping it tender during slow cooking. Onion and optional onion soup mix add savory depth, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce and ketchup brings classic flavor and glaze. Optional vegetables like potatoes and carrots cook alongside the meatloaf, absorbing juices for a complete one-pot meal. For finishing, the pan juices can be turned into a simple gravy, enhancing the hearty slow cooker meatloaf experience.
🛒 Ingredients (for 6–8 servings)
For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs ground beef (or half beef, half pork for extra flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
Optional Vegetables:
3–4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
2 carrots, sliced
For Gravy (Optional):
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
Pan juices from slow cooker
This combination ensures your slow cooker meatloaf is flavorful, tender, and easy to customize for your family’s tastes.
How to Make This Recipe
Making this slow cooker meatloaf is easy, hands-off, and perfect for anyone who wants a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss. Using simple ingredients like ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and onion soup mix, this slow cooker meatloaf stays moist and flavorful while cooking low and slow. Adding optional vegetables like potatoes and carrots makes it a complete one-pot meal. Top with ketchup or a glaze for that classic slow cooker meatloaf finish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family dinner, this slow cooker meatloaf delivers consistent, juicy results every time.
🛒 Steps:
Step 1: Prep the Meatloaf
Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, eggs, onion soup mix, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup in a large bowl. Mix gently and shape into a loaf.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Grease the slow cooker. Optional: layer potatoes and carrots on the bottom, then place the meatloaf on top. Spread extra ketchup on top.
Step 3: Cook the Meatloaf
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Step 4: Make Gravy (Optional)
Remove meatloaf. Mix cornstarch with cold water, stir into pan juices, and cook on high until thickened. Serve over slices of slow cooker meatloaf.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the slow cooker meatloaf, pour over gravy if desired, and enjoy a classic, flavorful, family-friendly meal.
Expert Cooking Tips
Creating the perfect slow cooker meatloaf is all about choosing the right ingredients and using simple techniques to maximize flavor and tenderness. Ground beef combined with eggs and breadcrumbs ensures a moist, cohesive meatloaf, while onion soup mix or chopped onions add savory depth. Optional vegetables like potatoes and carrots not only round out the meal but also absorb the rich juices for extra flavor. Using a glaze or topping of ketchup enhances the classic slow cooker meatloaf taste. These tips help you achieve a juicy, flavorful, and foolproof slow cooker meatloaf every time.
💡 Expert Tips:
Choose the Right Meat
Use 80/20 ground beef or a mix of beef and pork for a juicy slow cooker meatloaf. Avoid lean meat only, which can dry out.
Don’t Overmix
Combine ingredients gently—overmixing can make your slow cooker meatloaf dense.
Layer Vegetables
Place potatoes and carrots at the bottom to absorb juices, keeping your slow cooker meatloaf flavorful.
Use a Glaze
Spread ketchup or a glaze on top for a sweet, tangy finish that enhances the slow cooker meatloaf flavor.
Check Internal Temperature
Cook until the slow cooker meatloaf reaches 160°F for safe, perfectly cooked results.
Optional Gravy
Turn pan juices into gravy to pour over slices of slow cooker meatloaf for added richness.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook slow cooker meatloaf?
Slow cooker meatloaf typically cooks for 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high, depending on the size of the loaf. Cooking low and slow ensures the meatloaf stays tender and juicy.
Can I add vegetables like potatoes or carrots to slow cooker meatloaf?
Yes! Layering potatoes or carrots under the meatloaf allows them to cook in the flavorful juices, making your slow cooker meatloaf a complete, one-pot meal.
Do I need onion soup mix for slow cooker meatloaf?
Onion soup mix is optional but highly recommended for adding savory depth to your slow cooker meatloaf without extra prep. It enhances flavor while keeping the meatloaf moist.
How can I make gravy with slow cooker meatloaf?
After cooking, remove the meatloaf and mix cornstarch with cold water, then stir into the juices left in the slow cooker. Cook until thickened for a rich, flavorful gravy to serve over slow cooker meatloaf.
What is the best way to ensure my slow cooker meatloaf stays moist?
Use a mix of ground beef and pork, avoid overmixing, and cook on low for a longer period. Adding a glaze or ketchup topping also helps keep the slow cooker meatloaf juicy.
Want more sweet and savory recipes like this? Follow us on Facebook for daily dinner ideas, cooking tips, and behind-the-scenes moments from Eminent Recipes.
See how others are plating this dish on Instagram! Tag your version with #Eminentrecipes and get featured.
Love collecting recipes? Don’t miss our latest pins on Pinterest—perfect for saving your favorite meals in one spot.
Honey Sriracha Salmon Bowls – Sweet, Spicy, and Healthy
Shrimps in Culichi Salsa Recipe – Creamy, Zesty, and Family-Friendly
Shrimps in Culichi Salsa – Authentic Culichi Mexico Flavors
Easy Taco Pasta Salad – Creamy, Cheesy, and Quick
This slow cooker meatloaf is a family-friendly, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that brings comfort and convenience together in one dish. Using simple ingredients like ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, and optional onion soup mix, you can create a juicy slow cooker meatloaf that everyone will love. Adding vegetables or turning the pan juices into gravy makes it a complete one-pot dinner. Whether for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this slow cooker meatloaf is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Print
Slow Cooker Meatloaf
- Total Time: ~6 hours 20 minutes (low)
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
A moist, flavorful meatloaf cooked slowly in your crockpot, perfect for easy weeknight dinners. This version can include classic onion soup mix, potatoes, and gravy for a comforting, hands-off meal that serves the whole family.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for 6–8 servings):
For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs ground beef (or half beef, half pork for extra flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup milk
2 large eggs
1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix (optional)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
Optional Vegetables:
3–4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
2 carrots, sliced
For Gravy (Optional):
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 cup cold water
Pan juices from slow cooker
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, milk, eggs, onion soup mix, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix gently until combined (don’t overmix). Shape into a loaf.
Step 2: Prepare Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the slow cooker. If using vegetables, layer potatoes and carrots at the bottom. Place meatloaf on top. Spread additional ketchup on top for a glaze.
Step 3: Cook Meatloaf
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Optional Gravy
Remove meatloaf from slow cooker and cover to keep warm. Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the juices left in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 5–10 minutes until thickened. Serve gravy over slices of meatloaf.
Notes
- Cheesy Variation: Add a layer of shredded cheese in the middle before cooking.
- Make Ahead: Prep meatloaf in the morning; slow cook while at work for a ready dinner.
- Vegetable Tip: Root vegetables work best—avoid watery veggies like zucchini unless you want extra juice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Category: Main Dish / Comfort Food
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American