Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 4–6 hours (Low) | Servings: 6
Ingredients
- The Meat: 2 lbs lean ground beef.
- The Binders: * 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.
- 2 large eggs.
- 1/2 cup milk.
- The Flavorings:
- 1/2 onion, finely diced.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
- 1 tsp garlic powder.
- 1 tsp dried parsley.
- The Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup.
- 2 tbsp brown sugar.
- 1 tsp mustard.
- The Topping: 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese.
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
Instructions
- Mix: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, onion, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Mix by hand until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat.
- Shape: Line your slow cooker with parchment paper or a slow cooker liner for easy removal. Shape the meat mixture into a firm loaf and place it in the center.
- Glaze: Whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Spread about two-thirds of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours (or High for 3 hours) until the internal temperature reaches $160°F$.
- Finish: About 15 minutes before serving, spread the remaining glaze over the top and sprinkle generously with the shredded cheese.
- Melt: Cover the slow cooker again for a few minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Carefully lift the meatloaf out using the parchment paper. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure it stays juicy.