Slow Cooker Savory Meatloaf with Vegetables
Indulge in the hearty flavors of Slow Cooker Savory Meatloaf with Vegetables. This recipe enhances classic comfort food by combining a savory beef meatloaf with tender carrots and red potatoes, all cooked slowly in a crock pot to perfection. Whether you're looking for a fulfilling family dinner or a meal prep option for the week, this dish offers simplicity and satisfaction. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that warms the heart.
4
Servings
375
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
egg
1 (beaten)
milk
1/4 cup (none)
bread
2 slices (cubed, day old)
onion
1/4 cup (finely chopped)
green peppers
2 tablespoons (finely chopped)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
lean ground beef
1 1/2 lbs (none)
ketchup
1/4 cup (none)
carrots
8 medium (peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
red potatoes
8 small (peeled with a strip around each)
Instructions
1
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until well combined.
2
Add the cubed bread, finely chopped onion, green peppers, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix until evenly distributed.
3
Incorporate the lean ground beef into the bowl and mix thoroughly using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well combined.
4
Shape the mixture into a round loaf and place it into the bottom of a 5-quart crock pot.
5
Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf, coating it for added flavor and moisture.
6
Arrange the peeled and chunked carrots around the meatloaf in the crock pot.
7
Peel a strip around each small red potato, then place the potatoes on top of the carrots for an added layer of flavor.
8
Cover the crock pot with the lid and set the temperature to high for one hour to give the meal a strong initial start.
9
After one hour, reduce the temperature to low and continue cooking for 7-8 hours, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Nutrition Information
17.5
Fat
37.5
Carbs
20
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Slow Cooker Savory Meatloaf with Vegetables?
It is a hearty comfort food dish that combines a savory beef meatloaf with carrots and red potatoes, all slow-cooked in a crock pot.
What type of meat is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/2 lbs of lean ground beef.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This meatloaf recipe makes 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 375 calories.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 20 grams of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 17.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
Each serving contains 37.5 grams of carbohydrates.
What size slow cooker is required?
You should use a 5-quart crock pot for this recipe.
How long does the meatloaf need to cook?
Cook on high for 1 hour, then reduce the temperature to low and cook for an additional 7 to 8 hours.
Why is the slow cooker set to high for the first hour?
Setting the temperature to high initially gives the meal a strong start before finishing slowly on low heat.
What vegetables are included in this recipe?
The recipe includes 8 medium carrots and 8 small red potatoes.
How should I prepare the red potatoes?
You should peel a small strip around each red potato before placing them in the cooker.
How should the carrots be cut?
Peel the carrots and cut them into 1-inch chunks.
What kind of bread is best for the meatloaf mixture?
Use 2 slices of day-old bread, cubed, to help bind the meatloaf.
Can I substitute the milk in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of milk, but you could likely use a dairy-free alternative if needed.
What is the purpose of the egg?
The egg acts as a binder to help hold the meatloaf together during the long cooking process.
How much ketchup is needed?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of ketchup to spread over the top of the meatloaf.
Can I use green peppers in the meatloaf?
Yes, the recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of finely chopped green peppers for added flavor.
How should the onion be prepared?
The onion should be finely chopped; you will need about 1/4 cup.
Where should the vegetables be placed in the crock pot?
Arrange carrots around the meatloaf and place the potatoes on top of the carrots.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
While the recipe specifies lean ground beef, ground turkey can be used as a leaner substitute.
What seasonings are used in this meatloaf?
The meatloaf is seasoned simply with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
Is this a good meal prep option?
Yes, this dish is an excellent choice for meal prepping for the week.
What shape should the meatloaf be?
Shape the meat mixture into a round loaf that fits the bottom of your 5-quart crock pot.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, but ensure you don't overfill the crock pot so that everything cooks evenly.
Do I need to add water to the crock pot?
No extra water is needed as the meat and vegetables will release their own juices during the slow cooking process.
Is the meatloaf covered while cooking?
Yes, keep the lid on the crock pot throughout the entire cooking duration.
What flavor does the ketchup add?
The ketchup provides a tangy sweetness and helps keep the top of the meatloaf moist.
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Day-old bread is preferred because it absorbs liquid better, but fresh bread can be used if necessary.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
The meatloaf is done when it is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, usually after 8-9 total hours of cooking.