Savory Herb Crockpot Meatloaf

πŸ•’ Prep: 15 min
πŸ”₯ Cook: 7 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
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Crockpot meatloaf is a game-changer for busy days when you still want a homemade meal. This savory version, loaded with herbs and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, will elevate your usual meatloaf experience. Plus, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you go about your day.

Ingredients for Savory Herb Crockpot Meatloaf

Ground beef forms the hearty base of the meatloaf, providing richness and flavor. Choose 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatloaf and soak up juices, keeping it moist. The eggs act as a binder, holding everything together. Milk adds moisture and helps soften the breadcrumbs. Onion and garlic bring aromatic flavor to the mix, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami kick, and dried thyme lends an earthy note. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. The ketchup glaze, thinned with water, creates a tangy, sweet topping.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a crockpot liner for easier cleanup.
  • If you like a crispy crust, broil the meatloaf for a few minutes after cooking.
  • For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
  • Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to prevent crumbling.
  • Chop onions finely to ensure they cook thoroughly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this savory herb meatloaf with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would balance the richness perfectly. Leftovers make for an excellent meatloaf sandwich the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How can I tell if the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160Β°F.
Can I freeze the meatloaf?
Yes, cooked meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.

Savory Herb Crockpot Meatloaf Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Toss in your ground beef, then add the breadcrumbs, cracking the eggs right on top. Pour in the milk β€” this will keep everything nice and moist. Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Don't skip these; they make a world of difference in flavor.

Now, sprinkle in the parsley and drizzle the Worcestershire sauce over the mix. Add the thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently combine everything, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can make it tough.

Once the mixture is combined, shape it into a loaf and place it in your crockpot. In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup and water, then spread it over the top of the meatloaf for a sticky, flavorful glaze.

Cover the crockpot and set it on low. Let it cook for about 6-7 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160Β°F. When it’s done, carefully lift the meatloaf out and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those delicious juices inside.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy prep: Just mix, shape, and let the crockpot work its magic.
  • Consistent results: Slow cooking ensures a juicy, tender meatloaf every time.
  • Minimal cleanup: One bowl and a crockpot liner make for quick cleanup.
  • Flavorful herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme add a depth of flavor.
  • Adaptable: Easily tweak seasonings or ingredients to your taste.

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup ketchup
1/4 cup water

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, garlic, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the crockpot.
3. In a small bowl, mix ketchup and water, then spread the mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160Β°F.
5. Carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

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