Crockpot Comfort Meatloaf with Potatoes and Carrots
Welcome to the cozy embrace of comfort food! This Crockpot Comfort Meatloaf with Potatoes and Carrots is the perfect antidote to a busy day. Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers away effortlessly in your slow cooker. Organic beef and veggies are seasoned to perfection, creating a savory dish garnished with love and tradition. So, roll up your sleeves and let this recipe wrap your dinner table in warmth and delight.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes – 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 2 lbs of organic ground beef
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup to help bind the meatloaf together
- Milk: 1/2 cup for moisture
- Egg: 1 for binding
- Onion Soup Mix: 1 packet for flavor
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp for taste
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tbsp for depth of flavor
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Potatoes: 4 medium, cut into quarters
- Carrots: 4 large, sliced
- Beef Broth: 1/2 cup for adding moisture
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion soup mix, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of your crockpot.
Step 3: Arrange the Vegetables
Arrange the potatoes and carrots around the meatloaf.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour the beef broth over the vegetables and meatloaf.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once done, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve alongside the carrots and potatoes for a heartwarming meal.
Notes
Choosing the Right Ground Beef
Choosing organic beef is not just a healthier option but also aligns with environmental sustainability. It is less processed and generally free from antibiotics and hormones, ensuring a healthier intake. Plus, it tends to have a more pronounced beef flavor, which complements this comfort dish beautifully.
Perfect Texture
The combination of breadcrumbs and milk is crucial to achieve a tender meatloaf. Breadcrumbs soak up moisture from the milk and hold it within the loaf as it cooks, preventing it from drying out. Make sure to use fresh breadcrumbs for better results.
Cooking on Low vs. High
Cooking this meatloaf on a low setting ensures that the meat and vegetables cook evenly, allowing the flavor to develop fully over time. While cooking on high might seem tempting to cut down time, it can lead to uneven cooking and a less flavorful result.
Adding Extra Veggies
If you have other vegetables like parsnips or turnips on hand, feel free to add them to this dish. They will absorb flavors over the cooking period and lend an extra layer of texture and taste to your meal.
Storing Leftovers
This dish is perfect for making ahead or having leftovers for the next day. Store the meatloaf and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture and flavor.