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Easy Slow Cooker Meatloaf

Easy Slow Cooker Meatloaf

This set-and-forget slow cooker meatloaf turns out tender, juicy, and flavorful with a sweet-tangy glaze. Perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lb ground beef (about 85% lean)
  • 0.9 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 3.5 oz beaten eggs
  • 0.75 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1.5 tsp minced garlic
  • 0.33 cup ketchup for the meat mixture
  • 1.5 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1.25 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • 0.5 tbsp neutral oil for greasing
  • 0.5 cup ketchup for glaze
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar for glaze
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard for glaze
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar for glaze

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Crumple foil into balls for a trivet and oil the slow cooker lightly.
  • Stir breadcrumbs and milk in a large bowl; let sit 5 minutes.
  • Whisk in eggs, ketchup, Worcestershire, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  • Add ground beef and mix gently with your hands until just combined.
  • Shape into a tight loaf, about 8 inches long, without overworking.
  • Set the foil trivet in the cooker and place the loaf on top.
  • Whisk ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar to make the glaze.
  • Brush the loaf with half the glaze.
  • Cook covered on Low 5 hours or High 3–4 hours, to 160°F internal.
  • Brush with remaining glaze and cover 15 minutes to set.
  • Lift out, rest 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

Variation: Swap half the beef for ground turkey for a lighter loaf, or add 1/2 cup finely diced mushrooms for moisture. Tip: For a sticky, caramelized finish, broil slices on a sheet pan for 2–3 minutes before serving. Storage: Refrigerate slices in an airtight container up to 4 days, or freeze up to 2 months.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Slow Cooker Meatloaf flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.