This Slow Cooker BBQ Meatloaf and Potatoes is juicy, tender, and topped with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. An easy crockpot comfort food recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
Slow Cooker BBQ Meatloaf and Potatoes Recipe
There are nights when I just want a comforting dinner that doesn’t require a sink full of dishes. This Slow Cooker BBQ Meatloaf and Potatoes has become one of my family’s favorite meals because it’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy. I usually prepare everything in the morning, and by dinner time the meatloaf is juicy, the potatoes are perfectly tender, and the kitchen smells amazing. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Potatoes
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
BBQ Glaze
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined.
Step 2: Shape the Loaves
Divide the mixture into six equal oval-shaped mini meatloaves.
Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes
Toss the baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Slow Cooker
Spread the seasoned potatoes across the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the mini meatloaves on top.
Step 5: Add the BBQ Glaze
Mix together the BBQ sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard. Brush generously over each meatloaf.
Step 6: Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 7: Serve
Brush with extra BBQ sauce if desired and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture or the meatloaf may become dense.
- Baby Yukon Gold potatoes stay tender without falling apart.
- Use your favorite smoky or honey BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
- For a caramelized glaze, place the cooked meatloaf under the broiler for 2–3 minutes before serving.
- Leftovers make fantastic sandwiches the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted broccoli
- Buttered corn
- Dinner rolls
- Coleslaw
- Garden salad
Nutrition Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: 540
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 31g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 720mg
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker BBQ Meatloaf and Potatoes is the ultimate comfort meal. Tender, juicy meatloaf paired with perfectly seasoned potatoes and a sticky BBQ glaze creates a dinner that’s both easy and satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well, though it may cook a little faster and be slightly leaner.
2. Can I prepare this the night before?
Absolutely. Assemble everything, refrigerate overnight, and start the slow cooker the next morning.
3. How do I know the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Store cooled meatloaf and potatoes in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
5. What BBQ sauce works best?
Any favorite BBQ sauce works well—smoky, honey, sweet, or spicy all taste delicious in this recipe.
