Imagine coming home to a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen with the promise of a hearty, home-cooked meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. This crockpot meatloaf isn't just another dinner recipe – it's a game-changing culinary experience that transforms classic comfort food into a nutritious, stress-free feast. With perfectly tender meatloaf, roasted Brussels sprouts, and creamy cauliflower mash, this recipe is about to become your new family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 head cauliflower, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the meatloaf mixture by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, and ketchup in a large mixing bowl. Season with salt and pepper, and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that will fit comfortably in your crockpot, ensuring it's compact and even.
- Lightly grease the crockpot insert with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Place the formed meatloaf in the center of the crockpot.
- Wash and trim Brussels sprouts, cutting them in half. Chop the cauliflower into evenly sized florets.
- Arrange the Brussels sprouts around the meatloaf in the crockpot, ensuring they are in a single layer.
- Cover the crockpot and set to low heat. Cook for 6 hours, allowing the meatloaf to become tender and vegetables to roast.
- About 30 minutes before serving, steam the cauliflower florets until soft and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain the cauliflower and return to the pot. Add butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the meatloaf and Brussels sprouts from the crockpot.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts and cauliflower mash.
Tips
- Meat Mixing Magic: When combining your meatloaf ingredients, mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make it tough. Use your hands for the most even distribution.
- Shape Matters: Create a compact loaf that's slightly smaller than your crockpot's width, allowing heat to circulate evenly.
- Moisture is Key: The ketchup and egg help keep your meatloaf juicy. Don't skip these ingredients!
- Brussels Sprout Pro Tip: Cut sprouts in half for more caramelized edges and better flavor absorption.
- Cauliflower Mash Hack: For extra creaminess, warm your butter before mashing and consider adding a splash of milk or cream.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let your meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after cooking to help it retain its juices when slicing.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepped the night before and stored in the refrigerator, making busy weeknight dinners a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
