Name: Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs. 7% fat ground beef; 3 large eggs; 1 small white onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; ⅓ cup ketchup; ¼ cup milk; ½ tsp. garlic powder; 1 tsp. salt; ½ tsp. pepper; 25 saltine crackers, crushed; 5 Russet potatoes (small to medium sized)

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If there’s one meal that truly brings comfort and big flavor to the table with minimal fuss, it’s Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes. This dish combines a juicy, flavorful meatloaf with perfectly baked potatoes, all gently cooked together in your trusty slow cooker while you go about your day. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a hearty classic, this recipe makes dinnertime both effortless and seriously satisfying.

Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how basic ingredients come together to create a dinner that’s anything but ordinary. Every item here plays a crucial role in taste and texture, from keeping the meatloaf moist to giving those potatoes just the right fluffy bite.

Ground Beef (2 lbs., 7% fat): Go for a lean grind for the best blend of flavor and tenderness, without excessive grease.
Eggs (3 large): Essential for binding everything together and adding moisture.
White Onion (1 small, diced): Brings a gentle, sweet flavor that seeps through the meatloaf as it cooks.
Green Bell Pepper (1, diced): Adds a bright pop of color and a bit of fresh crunch.
Ketchup (⅓ cup): Gives both sweetness and a tangy depth—think of it as the secret sauce in your mix.
Milk (¼ cup): Moistens the breadcrumbs, or crackers, to keep texture soft and light.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp.): Layers in subtle savory notes without overpowering other flavors.
Salt (1 tsp.): Enhances every ingredient’s natural taste for balanced seasoning.
Pepper (½ tsp.): Just enough heat to round out the flavors.
Saltine Crackers (25, crushed): These act as the binder, holding moisture and lending a gentle saltiness as they dissolve.
Russet Potatoes (5 small to medium): The only potato for classic baked potatoes—fluffy on the inside, crisp on the outside.
Aluminum Foil: You’ll need this to individually wrap potatoes and ensure even cooking and soft skins.

How to Make Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

Start by grabbing your biggest mixing bowl and toss in the ground beef, eggs, onion, green bell pepper, ketchup, milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and crushed crackers. Dive in with a spoon or your (clean!) hands and combine until everything is just mixed. Don’t overwork the mixture; you want a tender meatloaf, not a dense brick. If the mix feels too dry, splash in a little more ketchup; too wet, crumble up another cracker or two. The perfect consistency will easily hold a loaf shape without sagging or crumbling.

Step 2: Form the Loaf in Your Slow Cooker

Scoop the meat mixture into your slow cooker, gently shaping it into an even, compact loaf right in the center. Leaving a little space around the edges will ensure good airflow and even cooking. This is where the magic of slow-cooking comes into play—no oven, no worries about overcooking, and so much juicy flavor.

Step 3: Prep and Add the Potatoes

Give those russet potatoes a thorough wash, then pat them dry. Wrap each potato individually in aluminum foil—this helps them cook evenly and keeps the skins nice and soft. Arrange them around the sides of the meatloaf, nestling them gently on top if space is tight. The slow cooker does double duty here: you’ll have perfectly tender baked potatoes side by side with your meatloaf.

Step 4: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic

Now comes the easy part! Secure the lid and set your slow cooker to low. Practice patience: do not open the lid for the full eight hours—trust me, it’s worth the wait. The result is Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes that are juicy, savory, and ready to greet you at dinnertime with zero last-minute stress.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the potatoes (use tongs—they’ll be hot!). Unwrap each, and then lift the meatloaf onto a platter. Slice it into thick, generous pieces and serve alongside those fluffy baked potatoes. This is the part where everyone gathers and digs in, eager for a classic that never goes out of style.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes

Garnishes

Don’t be shy with the finishes! Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the meatloaf for a burst of color, and keep plenty of extra ketchup, sour cream, or even a dollop of barbecue sauce handy for drizzling. For the potatoes, butter, shredded cheddar, chives, or crumbled bacon can turn them into a baked potato bar everyone will love.

Side Dishes

While Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes can shine on their own, they’re even better with a splash of green on the plate. Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a crisp garden salad for freshness that balances the meal. A basket of warm dinner rolls always gets rave reviews at our table, too!

Creative Ways to Present

Let dinnertime feel a little special by slicing the meatloaf and draping each piece over half a potato. Or try building “individual plates” with a slice of meatloaf resting right on top of each split potato—load on toppings, and you’ve got customizable, crave-worthy comfort food perfect for serving a crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes store beautifully. Cool everything to room temperature, then transfer the meatloaf slices and potatoes to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, and you’ll have effortless lunches or dinners ready at your fingertips.

Freezing

If you want to plan even further ahead, both the meatloaf and potatoes freeze well. Slice the cooked meatloaf, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap or foil, and pop them in a freezer bag. The potatoes can also be frozen—just unwrap, cool, and store in a separate bag. Everything keeps for up to 2 months, ready for a quick and comforting meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave meatloaf slices and potatoes until warmed through, or place them in a covered dish in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes. For extra moisture, drizzle a little ketchup or add a splash of broth to the meatloaf before heating. The potatoes can be revived with a short burst in the microwave or oven as well.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean options for Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes. Just make sure to watch the texture—since these meats are leaner, don’t be afraid to add a touch more milk or ketchup to keep everything moist.

Can I prep the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix up the meatloaf a day in advance. Cover tightly and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to form the loaf and cook. This actually helps the flavors deepen and meld together nicely.

Do I have to use russet potatoes?

Russets are perfect for this recipe because their high starch content gives you classic baked potato fluffiness. If you only have Yukon Golds or red potatoes, they’ll work, but expect a creamier texture instead of that signature airy bite.

What’s the best way to keep the meatloaf from getting soggy?

Shaping the meatloaf with a bit of space around it in the slow cooker helps, as does not overmixing. Be sure to follow the moisture tips in the recipe—balancing ketchup and crackers is key. When it’s time to serve, use a spatula to gently lift slices so excess juices stay behind.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

If you have an extra-large slow cooker, you can definitely double the meatloaf mixture. Just keep an eye on cook time—it may take an extra hour or two. Arrange the potatoes more closely around the loaf or even layer them on top if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a reliable, fuss-free dinner that everyone will love, it’s time to try Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Baked Potatoes. This dish fills your home with those irresistible, cozy aromas and turns any evening into something a little more special. I can’t wait for you to give this easy favorite a spot in your regular rotation and make family dinners both heartwarming and delicious!