Hearty, incredibly easy, and undeniably delicious, our Best Crock Pot Meatloaf recipe redefines comfort food. This classic dish is cooked low and slow to perfection, crowned with an irresistible sweet and tangy glaze that will have your family asking for seconds. It’s truly a delicious and satisfying family meal, perfect for any night of the week!
Homemade Meatloaf in the Slow Cooker: The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re searching for a dinner that offers maximum comfort with minimal effort, look no further than this fantastic Crock Pot Meatloaf. Meatloaf has long been a beloved staple in many households, and for good reason – it’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Our slow cooker version takes all the classic appeal of traditional meatloaf and makes it even easier to prepare. Imagine coming home to the savory aroma of a perfectly cooked meatloaf, ready to be served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of fresh mixed vegetables, all without ever needing to turn on your oven.
The beauty of cooking meatloaf in a crock pot lies in its “set it and forget it” nature. This method ensures your meatloaf remains incredibly moist and tender, absorbing all the wonderful flavors of its ingredients over several hours. The low and slow cooking process allows the spices, seasonings, and signature glaze to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a dish that’s rich in flavor and wonderfully comforting. It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a home-cooked meal without being tied to the kitchen.
Delicious, Brandie, thank you. A special thanks for putting the notes at the end of the recipe!!
– Phyllis
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Meatloaf
- Do I need to use panko breadcrumbs?
- Not at all! While panko breadcrumbs offer a light and airy texture, you can easily substitute them with regular breadcrumbs. For a truly homemade touch, you can even use about 3 slices of small, torn-up pieces of day-old bread. The goal is to bind the meat mixture and add moisture.
- What type of ground beef should I use?
- For optimal results in a slow cooker, we highly recommend using a leaner ground beef, such as an 85/15 blend or even higher (e.g., 90/10). Leaner meat produces significantly less grease during the slow cooking process, meaning you won’t have to drain off excess fat later, resulting in a cleaner and tastier meatloaf. If you use fattier ground beef, you might notice more grease pooling in the bottom of your crock pot.
- Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
- Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent alternatives for a lighter version of this meatloaf. They cook beautifully in the slow cooker and absorb the flavors just as well. For an intriguing Italian-inspired twist, consider mixing a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage – the sausage adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a hint of spice.
- Can this meatloaf be made in the oven, Instant Pot, or Air Fryer?
- Yes, this versatile meatloaf recipe adapts wonderfully to various cooking methods! You can certainly bake it in the oven for a more traditional preparation, achieve quicker results with an Instant Pot, or even get a crispy exterior using an Air Fryer. Each method offers a slightly different texture and cooking time, so be sure to click on the respective links for detailed instructions tailored to those appliances.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Storing leftovers is simple. Place any remaining Crock Pot Meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place your desired portion on a microwave-safe plate and microwave in 30-second increments until it’s heated through. For longer storage, this meatloaf freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last in the freezer for up to 6 months. To reheat from frozen, the quickest method is to microwave it on a microwave-safe plate, using short intervals until it’s thoroughly warmed.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Crock Pot Meatloaf and Glaze
Creating this delicious slow cooker meatloaf requires a selection of fresh and pantry staples. The combination of these ingredients ensures a moist, flavorful meatloaf with a perfectly balanced sweet and tangy glaze.
- Sweet Onion: We recommend finely grating the onion. This ensures that its flavor is evenly distributed throughout the meatloaf without leaving larger, noticeable chunks, which some prefer. However, dicing it finely is also an option if you enjoy a bit more texture.
- Milk: Adds moisture and helps to create a tender texture in the meatloaf. Whole milk is generally preferred for richness, but any milk will work.
- Eggs: Act as a crucial binding agent, holding the meatloaf mixture together. Lightly beating the eggs before adding them helps them incorporate more easily and evenly into the mixture, contributing to a cohesive loaf.
- Light Brown Sugar: A key component of both the meatloaf mixture and the glaze, providing a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it from the glaze entirely.
- Ketchup: Forms the tangy base for the classic meatloaf flavor and contributes significantly to the delicious glaze.
- BBQ Sauce: Adds a smoky, savory, and slightly sweet dimension to both the meatloaf and its glaze. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought brand, or elevate the flavor further with a Homemade BBQ Sauce. If BBQ sauce isn’t to your liking, you can simply leave it out and increase the ketchup slightly.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon for adding a deep, umami-rich flavor that enhances the beef and ties all the savory ingredients together. Don’t skip this!
- Garlic Powder: Provides a foundational aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients without being overpowering.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Known for their light, crispy texture, panko breadcrumbs absorb moisture and help keep the meatloaf tender and not too dense. Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a suitable substitute.
- Ground Beef: The star of the dish. As mentioned, an 85/15 blend is ideal for less grease in the slow cooker. You can also substitute with ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter meal, or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for a flavor twist.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out the best flavors in the meatloaf. Adjust to your personal taste.
How to Make The Best Crock Pot Meatloaf: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making a flavorful and tender meatloaf in your slow cooker is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a comforting meal that practically cooks itself.
Prepare Your Slow Cooker: Begin by lining a 4-6 quart crock pot with a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This step is optional but highly recommended as it makes lifting the cooked meatloaf out much easier and simplifies cleanup. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then set your crock pot aside.
Combine Wet Ingredients for the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated sweet onion, milk, lightly beaten eggs, 2 Tablespoons of packed light brown sugar, 1 Tablespoon of ketchup, 1 Tablespoon of BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk this mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are fully combined and the sugar has dissolved. This creates a flavorful liquid base for your meatloaf.
Add Breadcrumbs: Gently stir in the panko breadcrumbs (or your chosen alternative) into the wet mixture until they are well incorporated. The breadcrumbs will absorb some of the liquid, helping to bind the meat and keep it moist.
Incorporate Ground Beef: Add the 2 pounds of ground beef (preferably 85/15 lean) to the bowl with the breadcrumb mixture.
Mix the Meatloaf: Using clean hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until they are just combined. It’s crucial not to overmix the ground beef, as this can lead to a tough and dense meatloaf. Mix just enough until everything is evenly distributed.
Form the Loaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the foil-lined slow cooker. Shape it into a uniform, long oval or rectangular loaf. Ensuring an even shape helps the meatloaf cook consistently. Set it aside.
Prepare the Glaze: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup of ketchup, ½ cup of BBQ sauce, and ¼ cup of packed light brown sugar until smooth. This creates your luscious sweet and tangy glaze.
Apply Initial Glaze & Cook: Brush half of the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf in the slow cooker. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on the LOW setting for 6 hours. The meatloaf is done when its internal temperature, checked with a meat thermometer, reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
Finish with Remaining Glaze (Optional Broiling): Carefully lift the cooked meatloaf out of the crock pot using the foil as handles and transfer it to a sheet tray. Brush the remaining half of the glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf. For an extra touch, you can optionally broil it in your oven for a few minutes until the glaze becomes bubbly and slightly caramelized, adding a beautiful finish. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy: Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley (optional) for a pop of color and freshness. Slice into generous portions and serve hot with your favorite side dishes!
Craving More Comfort Food Recipes?
If you loved this Crock Pot Meatloaf, you’ll surely enjoy exploring more of our comforting and easy-to-make recipes. Whether you’re a fan of slow cooker meals or looking for different variations of classic dishes, we have something for everyone.
- Crock Pot Salisbury Steak: Another slow cooker classic for a hearty dinner.
- Crock Pot French Onion Meatloaf: A sophisticated twist on traditional meatloaf.
- Crock Pot Round Steak and Gravy: Tender steak simmered in rich gravy.
- Italian Meatloaf: Infused with herbs and flavors of Italy.
- Air Fryer Meatloaf: For a faster cook with a crispy crust.
- Crock Pot Lasagna: Layered pasta perfection made easy.
- Crock Pot Pork Loin: Juicy and tender pork loin with minimal effort.
- Meatloaf Patty Melts: A delicious way to use up leftover meatloaf.
- Instant Pot Meatloaf: Quick and convenient, with potatoes!
- Chicken Meatloaf: A lighter alternative to beef meatloaf.
- Momma’s Best Meatloaf: A timeless family recipe.
- Stovetop Stuffing Meatloaf: Uses stuffing mix for a unique flavor and texture.
- Crock Pot Meatloaf Meatballs: All the flavor of meatloaf in bite-sized form.
- Mozzarella Stuffed BBQ Meatloaf: An indulgent, cheesy, and smoky delight.
- Butter Swim Biscuits: Perfect side for any comforting meal.
- Stovetop Mashed Potatoes: A classic side to pair with meatloaf.
- 10 Crock Pot Mississippi Recipes: A collection of easy Southern-inspired slow cooker dishes.
Originally published: January 2021
Updated photos and republished: August 2025
Crock Pot Meatloaf
Hearty, easy and delicious, The Best Crock Pot Meatloaf is a true comfort meal that you cook low and slow with the perfect sweet and tangy glaze. No oven needed!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Author: Brandie Skibinski
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Ingredients
For the meatloaf:
- 1 small sweet onion, peeled and grated
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
- 1 Tablespoon ketchup
- 1 Tablespoon bbq sauce
- 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs
- 2 pounds (85/15) ground beef
For the glaze:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ½ cup bbq sauce
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Line a 4-6 quart crock pot with a large piece of heavy-duty foil, spray with cooking spray, and set aside.
- In a large bowl add 1 small sweet onion, peeled and grated, 1 cup whole milk, 2 large eggs, lightly beaten, 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar, packed, 1 Tablespoon ketchup, 1 Tablespoon bbq sauce, 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 Tablespoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Whisk this mixture until fully combined.
- Add in 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs. Stir in the breadcrumbs until mixed well.
- Next, add 2 pounds (85/15) ground beef.
- Using your clean hands, mix everything together until well combined but do not over mix.
- Add the mixture to the aluminum foil in the slow cooker, and form it into a long oval shape, set aside.
- In a small bowl add ½ cup ketchup, ½ cup bbq sauce and ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed. Whisk this mixture together to make the glaze.
- Brush half of the glaze on top of the meatloaf. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
- Take the meatloaf out of the crockpot using the foil to help lift it out. Place on a sheet tray and brush the remaining glaze on top.
- Optional: Broil in the oven until the glaze is bubbly and starts to brown slightly. Serve topped with fresh chopped parsley, for garnish.
Video
Notes
- Using a leaner meat such as an 85/15 blend for this recipe helps significantly with excess grease in the slow cooker.
- Do not overmix your meat mixture; overmixing will result in a tough, dense meatloaf rather than a tender one.
- If you prefer not to line your slow cooker with aluminum foil, you can skip it. However, the foil does make it considerably easier to lift the meatloaf out for slicing and serving.
- This Crock Pot Meatloaf recipe can also be adapted for oven cooking: mix all ingredients as directed, then shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 461 kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 25g | Sodium: 837mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 24g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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