Crockpot Meatloaf
Easy Crockpot Meatloaf Recipe with Bell Peppers and Potatoes
Introduction
Crockpot Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal hands-on time, making it a great option for those who want a delicious meal without a lot of effort.
History
Meatloaf has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, with variations of the dish appearing in cookbooks as far back as the late 19th century. The concept of mixing ground meat with seasonings and other ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful dish has stood the test of time, and crockpot meatloaf is a modern twist on this classic recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 lb (907 g) ground chuck
- 1 egg
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 cup cracker crumbs
- 1 package brown gravy mix
- 1 cup milk
- 3 – 4 small potatoes, quartered
How to prepare
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients, except for the potatoes.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape.
- Transfer the meat loaf into a crock pot.
- Cut the potatoes into quarters and arrange them around the sides of the meat loaf.
- Cook on high heat for 4 to 5 hours or on low heat for 8 to 10 hours.
Variations
- You can add diced carrots or celery to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicy kick, you can add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Instead of using ground beef, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the meatloaf holds together well.
- If you prefer a more tender meatloaf, you can add a splash of milk to the mixture.
- For a richer flavor, you can use ground beef with a higher fat content.
- To prevent the meatloaf from sticking to the crockpot, you can line the bottom with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad.
Cooking Techniques
Slow cooking the meatloaf in a crockpot allows the flavors to meld together and results in a tender and juicy dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have cracker crumbs, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook it.
Presentation Ideas
Slice the meatloaf and arrange it on a platter with the potatoes for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Crockpot meatloaf pairs well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the meatloaf in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of crockpot meatloaf contains approximately 400 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of crockpot meatloaf contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of crockpot meatloaf contains approximately 25 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of crockpot meatloaf contains approximately 30 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Crockpot meatloaf is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and vitamin A.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (milk) and gluten (cracker crumbs).
Summary
Crockpot meatloaf is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Crockpot meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful and hearty meal that the whole family will love.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had been rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I sifted through the yellowed and tattered papers, my eyes fell upon a handwritten note from my dear friend Martha. The note read, "Dear friend, I hope you enjoy this delicious crockpot meatloaf recipe. It's been a family favorite for generations!"
I smiled as I remembered Martha's warm smile and the countless hours we had spent together in the kitchen, sharing recipes and swapping cooking tips. She had always been a source of inspiration to me, and I knew that whatever recipe she had passed along would be a winner.
Excited to try something new, I gathered the ingredients listed on the note and set to work. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, onions, ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce were all mixed together in a large bowl, forming the base of the meatloaf. As I combined the ingredients, the scent of the spices filled the air, promising a delicious meal to come.
Once the mixture was well combined, I formed it into a loaf shape and placed it into the slow cooker. I poured a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard over the top, adding a sweet and tangy glaze that would caramelize as it cooked. I set the timer and waited patiently as the crockpot worked its magic, filling the house with the tantalizing aroma of meatloaf.
Hours later, I lifted the lid of the slow cooker to reveal a perfectly cooked meatloaf, its savory aroma wafting through the kitchen. I sliced into the tender loaf, marveling at how moist and flavorful it was. Each bite was a burst of savory goodness, the perfect comfort food for a cozy evening at home.
As I sat down to enjoy my meal, I couldn't help but think of Martha and the many memories we had shared in the kitchen. Her recipes had always been a source of comfort and joy for me, and this crockpot meatloaf was no exception. I knew that it would become a staple in my own recipe collection, a dish to be shared with family and friends for years to come.
With a satisfied smile, I savored each bite of the delicious meatloaf, grateful for the gift of friendship and the joy of discovering new recipes. As I finished my meal, I made a mental note to thank Martha for sharing this wonderful recipe with me, knowing that her legacy would live on in my kitchen for generations to come. And so, with a full belly and a happy heart, I closed my eyes and drifted off to sleep, dreaming of the many delicious meals that awaited me in the days ahead.
Categories
| American Recipes | Bell Pepper Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Crockpot Recipes | Egg Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Onion Recipes | Potato Recipes |