Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter – Easy and Delicious

Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter is a comforting, easy, and delicious one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy days. With tender meatloaf and creamy, flavorful potatoes, this dish brings all the cozy comfort food vibes while being simple to prepare. Just mix, set it, and forget it until dinner time—leaving you with a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this slow cooker recipe is sure to impress.

Why Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter is a Must-Try

This Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter is the epitome of convenience and flavor. You get a juicy, perfectly cooked meatloaf and creamy garlic butter potatoes all in one slow cooker. The slow-cooked method ensures that the meatloaf stays tender and juicy, while the garlic butter potatoes absorb all the rich flavors. What makes this recipe even better is its versatility—you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter

For the Meatloaf:
• Ground Beef: Provides the base for the meatloaf, giving it rich flavor and tenderness.
• Egg: Helps bind the meat mixture together, ensuring the meatloaf stays cohesive.
• Milk: Adds moisture to the meatloaf and keeps it juicy during cooking.
• Crushed Saltine Crackers: These act as a binder and help create a soft, light texture for the meatloaf.
• Onion: Adds savory depth and a subtle sweetness to the meatloaf.
• Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the meatloaf’s taste.
• Rubbed Sage: A fragrant herb that adds a hint of earthiness to the meatloaf.
• Dried Dill Weed: Imparts a fresh, slightly tangy flavor that complements the meat.

For the Potatoes:
• Baby Potatoes: Small, tender potatoes that cook quickly and absorb the garlic butter flavor beautifully.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps the garlic infuse into the potatoes.
• Garlic: Gives the potatoes a savory and aromatic boost.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the garlic butter potatoes.

For the Sauce:
• Ketchup: Forms the base of the sauce, providing a tangy and sweet flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and depth to the ketchup sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A savory ingredient that adds complexity to the sauce.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner option.
• Gluten-Free Cracker Option: If you need a gluten-free option, replace the saltine crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
• Vegan Substitutes: For a plant-based version, try a veggie-based loaf using lentils or tempeh as a substitute for ground beef. You can also use vegan butter for the potatoes and skip the Worcestershire sauce or find a vegan alternative.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk and butter to make this recipe completely dairy-free while still keeping the rich flavors intact.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter

1. Prepare the Meatloaf: In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the ground beef, beaten egg, milk, crushed saltine crackers, chopped onion, salt, sage, and dill. Stir until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to avoid a dense texture.
2. Shape the Meatloaf: Lay a large piece of foil on a flat surface and lightly spray it with cooking spray. Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the foil. Fold up the sides of the foil to create a dish, ensuring the walls are tall enough to keep the juices contained.
3. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Place them in the empty side of the slow cooker, drizzle with melted butter, and toss with minced garlic and salt.
4. Place in the Slow Cooker: Carefully place the foil-wrapped meatloaf into the slow cooker, next to the potatoes. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
5. Cook on Low: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours. Check for doneness at the 6-hour mark, ensuring that the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 170°F and the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Prepare the Sauce: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix the ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl. Spoon the sauce over the meatloaf, cover, and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the meatloaf is cooked through and the potatoes are tender, carefully remove them from the slow cooker. Slice the meatloaf and serve with the garlic butter potatoes.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes

• Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the ingredients for the meatloaf, be sure not to overwork the meat mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough meatloaf.
• Check the Potatoes: Potatoes can cook at different speeds depending on the size and your slow cooker. If they’re not fork-tender after 6 hours, let them cook longer.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the most accurate results, use a meat thermometer to check that the meatloaf has reached an internal temperature of 170°F.

• Add More Flavor: Feel free to add extra herbs or spices to the meatloaf mix for a personalized twist. A bit of Parmesan cheese or bacon bits can elevate the flavor of the meatloaf.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the meatloaf and potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter

Pair this meal with a light, fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the meatloaf and potatoes. A side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a tangy coleslaw would also complement the dish nicely. For a variation, you can experiment with different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes, for a slight sweetness to counterbalance the savory flavors.

If you’re looking to add extra flavor, consider topping the meatloaf with melted cheese or crispy fried onions. You can also serve it with a zesty dipping sauce like a spicy ketchup or ranch dressing.

Seasonal Benefits of Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter

Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter is the perfect meal for colder months, making it a great dish for cozy winter dinners. The hearty nature of meatloaf paired with the creamy potatoes makes it filling and satisfying. Plus, using baby potatoes during their peak season in fall and winter will enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. With its tender, juicy meatloaf and creamy garlic butter potatoes, this dish is an easy, family-friendly meal that requires minimal effort and delivers maximum satisfaction. The slow cooker makes it even more convenient, allowing you to prepare everything in advance and let the magic happen while you go about your day. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a comforting meal for guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter

More Relevant Recipes

• Slow Cooker Shepherd’s Pie: This hearty, comfort-filled meal features a savory beef filling with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Just like the slow cooker meatloaf and potatoes, it’s a one-pot dinner that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
• Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings: A perfect blend of comfort food flavors, this recipe features tender chicken and fluffy dumplings, making it an excellent option for those who enjoy easy, hearty slow cooker meals.
• Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes: Another slow-cooked favorite, this dish combines juicy chicken with crispy garlic parmesan potatoes. It’s a simple, flavorful meal similar in style and taste to the Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Potatoes with Garlic Butter.

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