Dinner just got easier. This slow cooker meatloaf and baby red potatoes recipe is a weeknight favorite that practically cooks itself. You mix, shape, and let the slow cooker handle the rest.
The meatloaf turns out moist and tender with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. The baby red potatoes soak up the savory juices and become soft, buttery, and full of flavor.
This recipe is beginner friendly. Plan about 15 minutes of prep, and then let the slow cooker do the work. It is a comforting, family-friendly meal that fits busy evenings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking from start to finish
- Budget-friendly ingredients you likely already have
- Comforting flavor the whole family enjoys
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Beginner friendly with simple steps
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (80/20 keeps the loaf juicy)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/4 cup finely diced yellow onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Potatoes
- 1 lb baby red potatoes, halved if larger than a golf ball
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Glaze
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
Kitchen Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl for the glaze
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Toss the halved baby red potatoes with olive oil and 1/2 tsp salt. Spread them in an even layer across the bottom of the slow cooker.
-
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Overmixing makes the loaf dense.
-
Shape the mixture into an oval loaf that fits on top of the potatoes. Place it gently in the center of the slow cooker.
-
In a small bowl, stir together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
-
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the meatloaf reaches 160 degrees F in the center and the potatoes are fork tender.
-
Turn off the slow cooker and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. Spoon off any excess fat from the surface, then slice and serve with the potatoes.
{“placeholder”:false}
Expert Tips
- Check the temperature: A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to confirm the loaf is fully cooked.
- Keep it moist: Avoid packing the meat tightly, and do not overmix.
- Choose the right potatoes: Baby red potatoes hold their shape well. Yukon Gold potatoes also work if you cut them into similar sizes.
- Watch the liquid: Slow cookers release steam, so the potatoes stay moist without added broth.
Variations
- Turkey version: Replace the beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Cheesy version: Stir 1/2 cup shredded cheddar into the meat mixture before shaping.
- Kid friendly: Use finely grated carrot or zucchini in the meat mixture to add vegetables without a strong taste.
- Low carb: Swap the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds and use extra potatoes or green beans as the side.
What to Serve With
- Steamed green beans or a simple side salad
- Buttered dinner rolls for soaking up the juices
- Iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink
- Apple crisp or vanilla pudding for dessert
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm slices in a covered dish in the microwave until hot in the center, or reheat in a 325 degrees F oven until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this meatloaf without breadcrumbs?
Yes. Rolled oats or crushed crackers work well and help keep the loaf tender.
Do I need to brown the meat first?
No. The slow cooker cooks the meatloaf fully, so browning is optional for this easy version.
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Thaw it completely in the refrigerator first. Frozen meat can cook unevenly in a slow cooker.
Why is my meatloaf watery?
Excess fat or liquid can collect in the pot. Drain the liquid before slicing and use leaner meat if needed.
Can I double the recipe?
A 6-quart slow cooker can handle a doubled meatloaf in a round shape, but check the internal temperature carefully before serving.
Can I cook this on high?
Yes. Cook on high for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours, checking that the center reaches 160 degrees F.
Nutrition
Estimated values per serving, based on 6 servings:
- Calories: about 380
- Protein: about 24 g
- Fat: about 22 g
- Carbs: about 22 g
- Fiber: about 2 g
- Sugar: about 7 g
- Sodium: about 780 mg
Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.
Conclusion
This slow cooker meatloaf and baby red potatoes dinner is easy, comforting, and ready when you are. Give it a try on your next busy evening. Leave a comment to tell us how it turned out, and rate the recipe so other home cooks can find it. Browse more recipes on our site for your next family dinner.
