Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies Recipe

Looking for a hearty, family-friendly meal that practically cooks itself? Then look no further! This Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies recipe is the answer. Tender, flavorful meatloaf nestled amongst a bed of perfectly cooked vegetables – all made in your slow cooker. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it recipe for busy weeknights!

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What is Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies?

Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies is a comforting and convenient one-pot meal, perfect for those who crave the classic meatloaf flavors without the fuss of baking. This recipe involves combining a traditional meatloaf mixture – typically ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings – and then slowly cooking it alongside a medley of fresh vegetables in a crockpot. The slow cooking process infuses the meatloaf and veggies with rich flavors and tenderizes the meatloaf to perfection and tenderizing the vegetables until they are perfectly cooked.

This method not only saves time and effort, but also results in a moist, flavourful meatloaf and perfectly cooked vegetables that are packed with nutrients. Forget standing over a hot oven for hours, let your crockpot do all the work. Give this mouthwatering recipe a try!

Key Ingredients for Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies:

For the Meatloaf:

Ground Beef: 2 pounds of lean ground beef (80/20 blend is recommended for flavor and moisture).
Breadcrumbs: 1 cup of plain breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs can be used for a crispier texture, but may absorb more moisture.
Egg: 1 large egg, lightly beaten, to bind the ingredients.
Onion: 1/2 cup of finely chopped yellow onion for flavor.
Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced, to enhance the savory taste.
Ketchup: 1/4 cup of ketchup to add moisture and sweetness.
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for umami depth.
Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning for aromatic flavor.
Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt to taste.
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to taste.

For the Glaze:

Ketchup: 1/2 cup of ketchup for the base of the glaze.
Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar for sweetness and caramelization.
Yellow Mustard: 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard for tanginess.

For the Vegetables:

Potatoes: 1.5 pound, peeled and chopped into 1-inch chunks. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well.
Carrots: 1 cup, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces.
Celery: 1 cup, chopped into 1-inch pieces.
Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, cut into wedges
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil to lightly coat the vegetables.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon of salt to taste.
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to taste.

How to Make Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies:

This Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies recipe is incredibly simple, delicious, and satisfying. It’s easy because you just mix, layer, and let the crockpot do its magic! The result is a tender, flavour that is cooked perfectly well, moist meatloaf and flavorful vegetables all in one go. The preparation time before cooking is only about 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

In a large bowl, toss the chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion wedges with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread the vegetables evenly on the bottom of your crockpot. This will act as a bed for the meatloaf and prevent it from sticking.

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Use your hands (or a sturdy spoon) to gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.

3. Shape the Meatloaf:

Gently form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape that will fit comfortably inside your crockpot on top of the vegetables.
Place the meatloaf on top of the bed of vegetables in the crockpot.

4. Prepare the Glaze:

In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/2 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard until well combined.

5. Glaze the Meatloaf:

Evenly spread the ketchup glaze over the top of the meatloaf. This will create a flavorful and slightly caramelized crust.

6. Cook in the Crockpot:

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and firm to the touch. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 160°F (71°C).
If you’re using a meat thermometer, insert it into the center of the meatloaf to check for doneness.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, you can remove the lid to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate and the glaze to thicken slightly. This step is optional but can enhance the overall texture and flavour.

7. Serve:

Once the meatloaf is cooked through, carefully remove it from the crockpot using a spatula.
Slice the meatloaf and serve it with the cooked vegetables from the crockpot.
Drizzle any remaining sauce from the crockpot over the meatloaf and vegetables for extra flavour.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies:

The main highlight of this Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies is undoubtedly its convenience. There’s no need to juggle multiple pots and pans, just throw everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic.
This recipe is also a fantastic way to save money on groceries. By making meatloaf at home, you control the ingredients and portions, avoiding the markups and additives found in store-bought alternatives. Plus you are getting a entire meal.
The secret ingredient is using Worcestershire sauce to impart a rich, savory flavour, elevating it beyond your average dish.

If you enjoy classic comfort food, you might also like Shepherd’s Pie, but if you are looking for ease and convenience, Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies is the way to go. So ditch the oven, embrace the ease of your slow cooker, and prepare to be amazed by this delicious and comforting meal!

What to Serve Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies With:

To complete your hearty meal, consider serving the Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies with:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that complements the meatloaf and gravy perfectly.
Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad provides a balance to the richness of the meatloaf.
Dinner Rolls: Warm, soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the crockpot.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the meal.
Corn on the Cob: A simple and seasonal side that pairs well with the meatloaf and vegetables.

Top Tips for Perfecting Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies:

Don’t overmix the meatloaf mixture: Overmixing can lead to a tough meatloaf. Mix until just combined.
Use the right blend of ground beef: A blend of 80/20 ground beef is recommended for flavour and moisture.
Adjust the cooking time based on your crockpot: Every crockpot cooks differently, so keep an eye on the meatloaf and vegetables.
Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef

5 Facts about Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies:

One-Pot Wonder:. This recipe minimizes cleanup by cooking everything in a single crockpot, saving you time.
Nutrient-Packed: Combining Meatloaf with a variety of vegetables creates a well-rounded, nutrient-rich meal, promoting overall health.
Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste preferences, making the recipe truly your own.
Budget-Friendly: This recipe is an economical way to feed a family, utilizing affordable ingredients and minimizing waste.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Preparing Crockpot Meatloaf in advance allows for easy meal planning, ensuring you have a delicious and healthy dinner ready when you need it.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Storing:

Refrigerate: Allow the meatloaf and vegetables to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, wrap individual slices of meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. The meatloaf can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. The vegetables can also be frozen, but their texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating:

Microwave: Reheat individual slices of meatloaf and vegetables in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf and vegetables in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Crockpot: For large portions, you can reheat the meatloaf and vegetables in the crockpot on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth to prevent drying out.

Final Thoughts:

This Crockpot Meatloaf & Veggies recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a classic comfort food dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a family-friendly, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The combination of flavorful meatloaf and tender vegetables makes for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your crockpot, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and hassle-free dinner!

try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest

Crockpot Meatloaf Faqs :

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or ground chicken as a substitute for ground beef to reduce fat content. Make sure to add a little extra olive oil or beef broth if the meat is too lean

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking.

Q: Can I make the meatloaf without breadcrumbs?
Yes, ground oats, almond flour, or crushed crackers (like Ritz) can be substituted for breadcrumbs to achieve a similar binding effect.

Q: How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

Adding ingredients with high moisture content, such as grated zucchini, shredded carrots enhances moisture in the meatloaf mixture.

Q: Can I add cheese to the meatloaf?
Yes, adding cheese to the meatloaf mixture can enhance its flavor and moisture;