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Slow Cooker Meatloaf Recipe Easy Comforting Dinner with Crispy Edges

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A comforting slow cooker meatloaf with a sweet and tangy glaze that creates crispy edges, perfect for cozy dinners and easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20, preferably grass-fed)
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (45g)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup ketchup, divided
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 2 garlic cloves (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, oats, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, 1/4 cup ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with a wooden spoon until just combined (3-4 minutes).
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf about 8×4 inches. Place in slow cooker liner or grease the slow cooker pot well.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to make the glaze.
  5. Brush half the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours. Halfway through cooking (around 3 hours), brush the remaining glaze on top.
  7. Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (71°C). If not, cook longer.
  8. Let the meatloaf rest in the slow cooker for 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. Optional: For extra crispy edges, transfer to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes after slow cooking.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid a tough meatloaf. Brush glaze twice during cooking for best crispy edges. Use slow cooker rack for extra crunch. Substitute almond flour for oats for gluten-free option. Ground turkey or chicken can be used but may be less juicy; add olive oil or mayonnaise to maintain moisture. Let meatloaf rest before slicing to hold shape better.

Nutrition

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