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The Magical Slow Cooker » Recipes » Dinner » Slow Cooker Meatloaf

Slow Cooker Meatloaf

by Sarah Olson on September 2, 2021 | Updated October 2, 2022 70 Comments

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Collage of meatloaf images with text of what ingredients are needed.
long image of meatloaf for pinterest

This slow cooker meatloaf is so moist and is pretty much fool-proof! Made with onions, bell pepper, and saltine crackers! This is the ultimate classic comfort food and is easy to make in the slow cooker. This is my mom’s recipe that I converted to the slow cooker.

cooked meat loaf in a slow cooker with sauce on top.

I don’t understand why some people hate meatloaf, were they fed awful meatloaf as a kid? My mom made the best meatloaf, and I wish I still lived at home and had my meals made for me! My mom made hers on a baking sheet; I love this updated way to make it!

How to make Meatloaf in the Crock Pot

Ingredients

ingredients for meatloaf on table
  • Ground beef – Use a very lean ground beef for meatloaf. I always get asked why is my meatloaf floating in grease? If you use a ground beef 7% – 10% fat, your meatloaf won’t be floating in grease.
  • Vegetables – Onions and bell pepper. Trust me on the bell pepper, it makes this recipe. Cut the onion and bell pepper into a small chop.
  • Seasonings – Onion powder, salt and pepper.
  • Ketchup – This helps moisten the meatloaf.
  • Milk – This also helps moisten the meatloaf and some say milk makes for a more tender loaf.
  • Crackers – Crush saltine crackers for the binder in this recipe.

Step by Step Directions

  • Step 1 – Make the meatloaf mixture in a large bowl, I like to add everything but the meat into the bowl first and combine that, then mix in the meat. I feel it’s easier to mix evenly that way and doesn’t overmix the meat. Overmixing the meat can cause a tough meatloaf.
how to mix meatloaf ingredients collage
  • Step 2 – Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray. Shape the meatloaf into a loaf into the slow cooker. If you have a round slow cooker, make a round shaped loaf.
shaped meatloaf uncooked in an oval slow cooker
  • Step 3 – Cover and cook on low for 5 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
  • Step 4 – Remove any fat from around the meatloaf before serving.
  • Step 5 -Use my sauce recipe to glaze the meatloaf if desired.
cooked meatloaf in a slow cooker with juices around the edges.

What do I top my meatloaf with?

  • A mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce is a classic sweet and tangy way to top meatloaf.
  • You can also use warm brown gravy, barbecue sauce, ketchup, or even a zesty salsa.
how to make meatloaf sauce collage

What to serve with meatloaf:

  • Mashed or baked potatoes (potatoes are a must if you can have them)
  • Slow Cooker Baked Beans
  • Corn or green vegetable
  • Green Salad
  • A sauce or gravy for topping the meatloaf.
collage of meatloaf and meatloaf tomato topping

Try one of these leftover meatloaf recipes:

  • Leftover Meatloaf Soup – Recipe by Food Network
  • Leftover Meatloaf Tater Tot Casserole – Recipe by Allrecipes
  • Leftover Meatloaf Quiche – Recipe by Kitchen Magpie
  • Leftover Meatloaf Chili – Recipe by Food.com
  • Leftover Meatloaf Baked Ziti – Recipe by Rachael Ray
  • Leftover Meatloaf Sandwiches – Recipe by Best Recipe Box
meatloaf cooked with tomato topping with corn and mashed potatoes on the side.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

How long does it take to cook meatloaf in the crockpot?

It takes 5 hours on low to cook a two-pound meatloaf in a crockpot.

Can I use ground turkey for meatloaf?

Yes, you can! You can use ground turkey for this recipe. Though you may need to add more crushed saltine crackers, ground turkey tends to be wetter than ground beef.

What variations can I make of meatloaf?

Add crumbled bacon and barbecue sauce instead of ketchup to this recipe. Or for an Italian twist and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the meatloaf mixture and top with warm marinara to finish off the dish.

What can I use instead of saltine crackers in my meatloaf?

You can use crushed Ritz Crackers instead of saltine in meatloaf. Or you can use bread crumbs or even oatmeal as a binder. I suggest about a cup for any of these substitutions.

Why is my meatloaf still pink?

Your meatloaf should have an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit and will be safe to eat. If it is still pink, it is from chemical changes due to myoglobin and heat.

sliced meatloaf in slow cooker

This slow cooker meatloaf is my new favorite comfort food; I’m going to put it on my weekly meal list every week.

sliced cooked meatloaf on a white plate with mashed potatoes and corn.

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sliced meatloaf in slow cooker

Slow Cooker Meatloaf

5 from 35 votes
Old-fashioned meatloaf made with saltine crackers cooked in the slow cooker.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 444kcal
Author: Sarah Olson

Equipment Needed:

  • Slow Cooker- 6 quart or larger

Ingredients:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup diced white onion
  • 1 cup diced red or green bell pepper
  • 1/3 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp. onion powder
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper
  • 25 saltine crackers
  • 2 lbs. 7% – 10% fat ground beef

For the Sauce

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tsp. mustard
  • 1 tsp. worcestershire sauce (optional)
US Customary – Metric

Instructions:

  • In a large bowl, add the eggs ,onion, bell pepper, ketchup, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Crush the saltine crackers in next, and mix this all together with clean hands. Add the meat next, only mixing everything until it just comes together.
  • Spray a 6-quart slow cooker with non-stick spray, and shape the meat into a loaf on the bottom of the slow cooker. Your meatloaf should hold into a loaf form without falling apart. Add more crushed saltines if the mixture seems too wet.
  • Cover, and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours, without opening the lid during cooking time.
  • Scoop out the fat with a spoon, discard.
  • Mix together the sauce ingredients, and spoon over meatloaf.
  • Cover and cook for 30 more minutes on LOW if you want the sauce heated. Serve and enjoy!
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How to Video:

Recipe Notes:

If you don’t have saltine crackers you can use 1 cup of crushed ritz crackers, oatmeal or breadcrumbs.
You can use ground turkey in place of beef for this recipe. Though you may need to add more crushed saltine crackers for ground turkey tends to be wetter than ground beef.
Topping variations:
  • Barbecue sauce
  • Warm brown gravy (can buy packets or jarred gravy)
  • Plain ketchup
  • Zesty salsa
Why is my meatloaf still pink? 
Your meatloaf should have an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit and will be safe to eat. If it is still pink, it is from chemical changes due to myoglobin and heat.

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 444kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 181mg | Sodium: 1156mg | Potassium: 824mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 1189IU | Vitamin C: 36mg | Calcium: 66mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutrition info is auto-generated. This information is an estimate; if you are on a special diet, please use your own calculations.

Made this recipe?I want to see your photos! Tag me on Instagram @themagicalslowcooker

Try my other Crock Pot Meatloaf Recipes:

  • Slow Cooker Turkey Stove-Top Stuffing Meatloaf
  • Slow Cooker Salsa Meatloaf
  • Slow Cooker Bacon Barbecue Meatloaf
  • Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes
  • Slow Cooker Lipton Onion Meatloaf
  • Slow Cooker Taco Meatloaf Stuffed Peppers
  • Slow Cooker Hobo Dinner (with meatloaf)

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    22635 shares
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    Filed Under: Beef, Dinner, Ground Beef, Meatloaf

    Comments

    1. Jayne says

      July 26, 2022 at 11:20 pm

      5 stars
      I have always liked the look of meatloaf but have never had it, not from USA. Made this yesterday and it was fab so tasty, really flavourful and moist, will definitely make again. Thank you for all your recipes I am new to slow cooker cooking and have now tried a few of your recipes and they all come out so so good.

      Reply
    2. Vivienne says

      June 3, 2022 at 2:25 pm

      Use no liquid to the meatloaf while cooking?

      Reply
      • Sarah Olson says

        June 3, 2022 at 2:29 pm

        No, it will keep itself moist with its own ingredients.

        Reply
    3. Barbi says

      January 7, 2022 at 5:24 pm

      Why aren’t the ingredient amounts listed?

      Reply
      • Sarah Olson says

        January 7, 2022 at 5:31 pm

        The amounts are in the recipe card, right above the comment section.

        Reply
      • Joe Berardo says

        January 14, 2022 at 10:45 am

        My mom and Grandma always used a can of tomato soup over the meatloaf and I can’t imagine it any other way. I make my meatloaf almost the same way but use bread crumbs and minced onions, 2 eggs , 1 and a half cup bread crumbs. No green pepper for my loaf because to me it takes over the flavor of the whole dish. I usually cook in the oven but am trying a crockpot because I have too much travel today. Try the can of tomato soup , mixed with one cup water and poor over loaf when half way done. Makes the best red gravy ever

        Reply
        • Deanne says

          February 28, 2022 at 8:27 pm

          I’ll be trying this with my next meatloaf! Thank you!

    4. Karen H. says

      October 12, 2021 at 11:34 am

      5 stars
      I made this last night with 1 pound ground beef and 1 pound ground turkey because that’s what I had. It was wonderful! The preparation was easy and the meatloaf was moist and flavorful. The sauce on top was really tasty too! My husband, sons and I really enjoyed it. Thank you for an excellent recipe!

      Reply
    5. Brenda says

      September 6, 2021 at 5:05 pm

      Excellent recipe. However I also like to add some chopped celery to the mix.

      Reply
    6. Kresann Hutman says

      April 28, 2021 at 7:01 pm

      5 stars
      I love meatloaf and could never get to turnout right.
      I tried this recipe and it was great. Now I cook it once every 2 weeks. Thanks for a great recipe. Love it.

      Reply
    7. Britni says

      January 18, 2021 at 10:22 am

      Can i cook this on high to make it in less time? And what time?

      Reply
      • Sarah Olson says

        January 18, 2021 at 12:06 pm

        I have not tested it on high, I apologize. It should do fine though, probably 3.5 -4 hours on high.

        Reply
    8. Linn says

      January 14, 2021 at 2:38 am

      5 stars
      Husband loved this meatloaf.

      Reply
    9. Deb says

      June 23, 2020 at 6:08 pm

      5 stars
      Can I pre make the meatloaf the nite before and put in crockpot in morning?

      Reply
    10. Penny Mearns says

      June 16, 2020 at 4:29 pm

      If you lay a strip of foil down one side, across the bottom and up the other side it’s much easier to lift the loaf out of the crock. Let the strips go out under the lid a little. Then you can deal with the fat, replace the loaf and make your sauce if wanted. (BYW, I always use ground turkey – not much fat!)

      Reply
    11. Hank says

      September 18, 2019 at 8:50 am

      Cannot believe the title went over my head “Ma…the meatloaf!” Will Ferrell in Wedding Crashers. So this is where you got the recipe. LOL

      Reply
      • Sarah Olson says

        September 18, 2019 at 9:06 am

        Yes! Your eye first one to notice. Lol

        Reply
    12. Anonymous says

      September 18, 2019 at 8:47 am

      I cannot believe the title went over my head. “Ma…the meatloaf!!” Will Ferrell, Wedding Crashers LOL!

      Reply
    13. Suzie says

      September 15, 2019 at 9:51 am

      how can you make this without so many carbs and what is a substitute if I cannot use Diary

      Reply
      • Sarah Olson says

        September 15, 2019 at 10:38 am

        Hi Suzie, a recipe similar to this may be better. And would work fine in the slow cooker on LOW for 5 hours. https://www.wholesomeyum.com/recipes/low-carb-meatloaf-paleo-gluten-free/

        Reply
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