This Crockpot Sloppy Joe Meatloaf is a fun twist on two classic meals! It’s juicy, filling, and packed with bold flavors, all made easy in your slow cooker.
Who knew meatloaf could be a party in the pot? I love how I can just let it cook while I catch up on my favorite show. Perfect for busy days, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 80/20 ground beef for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking to cut down on fat, lean ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help hold the meatloaf together. If you’re gluten-free, try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. I often use panko for a lighter texture!
Ketchup and BBQ Sauce: These add moisture and flavor. You can swap for a sugar-free or homemade version if you want to reduce sugar. I’ve also used sriracha for a spicy kick!
Cheese: Cheddar is optional but adds creaminess. Feel free to use mozzarella or even vegan cheese if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Stays Moist?
Keeping meatloaf juicy is key, and here are my handy tips:
- Don’t overmix: Combine just until blended to keep it tender.
- Egg & milk mix: The eggs and milk add moisture, so don’t skip these!
- Add sauce on top: A layer of ketchup or BBQ sauce before cooking helps lock in moisture.
- Let it rest: After cooking, resting helps redistribute juices, making each slice perfect.
Crockpot Sloppy Joe Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of preparation time and then cooks in the crockpot. You’ll spend roughly 6-7 hours on the low setting or 3-4 hours on high. It’s a great option for busy days when you want a homemade meal without all the fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, and minced garlic. This mix will give your meatloaf great flavor and texture!
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ketchup, tomato sauce, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
3. Combine and Mix:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the ground beef mixture. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Shape the combined mixture into a loaf that will fit inside your crockpot. This step is super important for even cooking!
5. Prepare the Crockpot:
Lightly grease the crockpot insert or line it with parchment paper. Place the shaped meatloaf inside.
6. Add Topping:
Spread a thin layer of ketchup or additional barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf. This adds extra moisture and flavor while it cooks!
7. Cook the Meatloaf:
Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
8. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This will allow it to melt and create a delicious cheesy topping.
9. Finish and Let Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a tastier slice!
10. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your meatloaf with sides like mashed potatoes and green beans for a hearty meal!
Enjoy your juicy, flavor-packed Crockpot Sloppy Joe Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just keep in mind that it may result in a slightly different texture, so ensure not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this meatloaf gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, check the sauces you use to ensure they’re gluten-free as well!
Can I Prepare the Meatloaf in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh.
What Should I Do If My Meatloaf Is Too Watery?
If you find the mixture too wet, try adding a bit more breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture. Alternatively, you can also reduce the amount of any liquid ingredients like milk or sauces in your next batch.
