If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug, the Crockpot Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. This luscious, tender meatloaf cooks low and slow in the crockpot, soaking up rich flavors from simple, pantry-friendly ingredients while the sweet glaze on top brings just the right amount of tangy-sweet magic. Whether you’re new to crockpot cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees a juicy, flavorful meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crockpot Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role. From the hearty ground beef to the combo of spices and gooey glaze, every element adds texture, moisture, and layers of unforgettable flavor.
- 2 pounds ground beef: The rich, meaty base for a juicy texture and satisfying bite.
- ½ onion (finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and moisture, keeping the meatloaf tender.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatloaf and soak up the juices for a perfect consistency.
- ¼ cup milk: Keeps the mixture moist and light.
- ¼ cup ketchup: Provides a tangy depth right in the meat mixture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and complexity.
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors naturally.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds aromatic herbs to brighten the dish.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: For a subtle but essential peppery kick.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses warmth throughout.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder, holding everything together perfectly.
- ¾ cup ketchup (for glaze): Forms the luscious base of the sweet glaze.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Brings caramelized sweetness to balance the tang.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds brightness and zing to the glaze.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for glaze): Deepens the glaze’s flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (for glaze): Rounds out the glaze with savory undertones.
How to Make Crockpot Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crockpot
Start by lining your crockpot with aluminum foil—this makes cleanup so much easier. Give it a good spray with nonstick spray to ensure your meatloaf doesn’t stick to the foil or sides while cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, and eggs. Mix everything thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until the ingredients are just blended—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf
Gather the meat mixture and gently form it into a loaf shape. The size should fit comfortably inside your crockpot and leave some space around the edges for even cooking.
Step 4: Transfer to the Crockpot
Carefully place your loaf into the crockpot, making sure it sits flat. This will help the meatloaf cook evenly.
Step 5: Cook the Meatloaf Low and Slow
Cover your crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 3 hours. The slow cooking process helps the flavors develop deeply and keeps the meatloaf beautifully moist.
Step 6: Prepare the Sweet Glaze
While the meatloaf is cooking, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. The glaze is where this recipe really shines—adding a sweet, tangy finish.
Step 7: Glaze and Finish Cooking
After 3 hours, remove the lid and spread the glaze evenly over the meatloaf. This sticky topping will caramelize and give the surface a gorgeous, irresistible shine.
Step 8: Optional Broil for Added Texture
If you want to add a bit of crispness to the glaze, carefully transfer the meatloaf to a baking sheet and broil it for 4 to 5 minutes. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn—this step adds a beautifully caramelized crust.
How to Serve Crockpot Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top lend a burst of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the meatloaf. A dollop of creamy mashed potatoes next to each slice is always a welcome touch.
Side Dishes
Classic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans perfectly complement this hearty meatloaf. For a little extra zing, try a crisp apple slaw or a simple side salad to keep things light and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn leftovers into sandwiches with some melted cheese and crunchy lettuce on a soft bun. Or serve thick slices on a buffet with toothpicks, perfect for parties or casual dinners. No matter the presentation, this Crockpot Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe always steals the show.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to keep it fresh and juicy.
Freezing
This meatloaf freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place slices in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months and make for an effortless future meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Adding a little extra glaze or a splash of water can help keep the meatloaf moist during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ground meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of beef and pork. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat’s fat content.
Do I need to line the crockpot with foil?
While it’s not mandatory, lining the crockpot with foil makes cleanup much easier and helps keep the meatloaf intact when removing it.
Can I make the glaze spicier?
Yes! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a zingy kick that complements the sweetness perfectly.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The crockpot cooking time of 3 hours on low usually cooks the meatloaf through. For extra assurance, use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Is broiling the glaze necessary?
Broiling adds a lovely caramelized finish and texture, but if you prefer to skip it, the glaze will still taste fantastic and sticky right from the crockpot.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like coming home to a hearty, flavorful Crockpot Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe simmering away, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. It’s easy, comforting, and utterly satisfying—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
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Crockpot Meatloaf with Sweet Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings (8 slices)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crockpot Meatloaf recipe offers a tender and flavorful comfort food classic, slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. Enhanced with a tangy and sweet ketchup-based glaze, it’s a hands-off meal that yields moist and delicious meatloaf slices, perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ½ onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 large eggs
Glaze
- ¾ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Prepare Crockpot: Line the Crockpot with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, and eggs thoroughly until evenly mixed.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape ensuring it is compact and even for uniform cooking.
- Place in Crockpot: Transfer the formed meatloaf to the prepared Crockpot, placing it gently to maintain its shape.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low heat for approximately 3 hours, allowing the meatloaf to cook evenly and become tender.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the meatloaf is cooking, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small dish until well combined.
- Apply the Glaze: Remove the lid from the Crockpot and spread the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, adding a sweet and tangy finish.
- Optional Broil for Finish: For a caramelized crust, carefully transfer the meatloaf to a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 4-5 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and slightly browned.
Notes
- Line the Crockpot with foil and spray with nonstick spray to make cleanup easier.
- You can substitute ground beef with a mixture of beef and pork for added flavor.
- The optional broiling step enhances the glaze’s texture and appearance but is not necessary.
- Ensure the meatloaf is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
- If your Crockpot runs hot, check the meatloaf at 2.5 hours to avoid overcooking.
