Get ready to elevate your dinner game with the mouthwatering Crockpot Brown Sugar Meatloaf! This classic American dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it also transforms into a tender, flavorful masterpiece as it slowly cooks in your crockpot. Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of a perfectly cooked meatloaf that practically melts in your mouth! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that will have your family asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover why this meatloaf is a must-try for busy weeknights!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup ketchup
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup of ketchup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, brown sugar, and the egg. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into a loaf. You can do this directly in your hands or on a clean surface. Aim for a uniform shape to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare your crockpot by lightly greasing the bottom with non-stick cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the shaped meatloaf into the crockpot. Make sure it fits comfortably without squishing it too much. If necessary, you can gently press down to ensure it’s in the right shape.
- In a small bowl, mix the ketchup with a tablespoon of brown sugar (optional) to create a glaze. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and the meatloaf to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the meatloaf using a meat thermometer. It should reach at least 160°F (70°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Once the meatloaf is cooked, carefully remove it from the crockpot using a spatula or tongs. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier meatloaf.
- Slice the meatloaf into portions and serve warm. You can pair it with your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf, so be gentle to keep it tender.
- Shape Matters: Aim for a uniform loaf shape to ensure even cooking. A well-shaped meatloaf will cook more evenly and look great when served.
- Grease the Crockpot: Lightly greasing the bottom of your crockpot with non-stick spray or oil will prevent the meatloaf from sticking, making it easier to remove once cooked.
- Glaze for Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, mix a tablespoon of brown sugar into your ketchup glaze before spreading it on top of the meatloaf. This adds a delightful sweetness that complements the savory meat.
- Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful slice.
- Pair with Sides: Serve your meatloaf with classic sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 290kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 70mg
