Quick & Juicy Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf Recipe Everyone Loves

Comfort food reaches new heights with this hearty crock pot Mississippi meatloaf that promises to melt in your mouth.

Packed with robust flavors and tender textures, this classic dish brings southern charm to your dinner table.

Rich ground beef mingles with zesty seasonings and creates a mouthwatering meal everyone will adore.

The slow cooker method ensures each bite stays juicy and perfectly seasoned.

Tangy pepperoncini peppers and savory sauce add an unexpected twist to traditional meatloaf.

Simple ingredients transform into an extraordinary dinner that sparks conversation and fills hungry bellies.

Prepare to savor every delectable forkful of this crowd-pleasing comfort classic.

Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf: Set, Forget, Enjoy

• Dump ingredients into the crock pot and let it do the hard work, making meal preparation a breeze for busy home cooks.
• Combine ranch and au jus seasoning mixes with peperoncini peppers to create a zesty, mouth-watering meatloaf that stands out from traditional recipes.
• Deliver a hearty, home-style dish that brings families together with its rich, satisfying taste and tender meat texture.
• Use foil in the crock pot for easy removal and minimal washing, reducing kitchen mess and saving precious post-meal time.

All The Must-Haves For Mississippi Meatloaf Flavor

• Ground Beef: The primary protein that forms the base of the meatloaf and provides rich, hearty flavor.

• Milk, Eggs: Bind the meatloaf together and help create a tender, moist texture.
• Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

• Breadcrumbs: Help absorb moisture and provide structure to the meatloaf.
• Au Jus Gravy Mix, Ranch Seasoning Mix: Deliver complex, zesty flavor profiles to the dish.

• Peperoncini Peppers: Add a tangy, mild heat and distinctive pickled flavor to the meatloaf.
• Peperoncini Juice: Contributes additional zesty notes to the gravy.

• Cornstarch, Water: Create a smooth slurry to thicken the gravy and give it a glossy, rich consistency.

• Cold Water: Used to help mix seasonings and create the gravy base.
• Nonstick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy removal of the meatloaf from the crock pot.

Tools For The Perfect Crock Pot Meatloaf

• Large Bowl: Essential for mixing wet ingredients, ground beef, and seasonings.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending eggs, milk, seasonings, and creating smooth mixtures.
• Crock Pot (6-8 quart): Slow cooker is key for cooking the meatloaf evenly.
• Aluminum Foil: Helps with easy removal and prevents sticking.
• Cooking Spray: Ensures nonstick surface for smooth meatloaf removal.
• Spatulas: Useful for lifting and transferring meatloaf carefully.
• Small Bowl: Needed for making cornstarch slurry and mixing additional ingredients.
• Sauce Pot: Used for thickening and finishing the gravy.
• Measuring Cups/Spoons: Helps accurately measure ingredients.

Steps To Tender, Juicy Crock Pot Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare Cooking Surface

Line your 6 or 8-quart crock pot with a large piece of aluminum foil, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides completely.

Generously spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

• Milk
• Eggs
• Sugar
• Au jus gravy mix packet
• Ranch seasoning mix packet
• Breadcrumbs

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Ground Beef

Add ground beef to the seasoned mixture.

Use clean hands to gently mix, being careful not to overwork the meat, which could make the meatloaf tough.

Step 4: Form Meatloaf Shape

Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared crock pot.

Carefully shape it into a smooth oval form.

Step 5: Develop Gravy Liquid

• Cold water
• Peperoncini juice
• Remaining au jus gravy mix packet
• Remaining ranch seasoning mix packet

Blend until the liquid looks uniform and well-combined.

Step 6: Saturate Meatloaf

Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over and around the meatloaf in the crock pot.

Step 7: Garnish With Peppers

Strategically place peperoncini peppers across the top of the meatloaf.

Step 8: Slow Cook

Allow the meatloaf to cook on low setting for 5-6 hours or on high setting for 3-4 hours.

The meatloaf is ready when its internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 9: Transfer Meatloaf

Carefully remove the meatloaf from the crock pot using two spatulas or by lifting the foil edges.

Step 10: Prepare Gravy

Strain the cooking liquid from the crock pot into a medium saucepan.

Heat over medium temperature.

Step 11: Create Thickening Agent

In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch and water until completely smooth.

Step 12: Enhance Gravy Consistency

Once the gravy starts simmering, slowly pour in the cornstarch mixture while continuously whisking.

Let it simmer for one minute until it thickens, then remove from heat.

Step 13: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the meatloaf and generously drizzle the prepared gravy over each serving.

Tips For Rich, Savory Mississippi Meatloaf

• Select ground beef with 85% lean meat for a perfect balance of flavor and moisture without excess grease.
• Gently combine ingredients to prevent a dense, tough meatloaf that lacks tenderness and juiciness.
• Use foil with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal and clean-up of the meatloaf from the crock pot.
• Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165F for safe and perfectly cooked meatloaf.
• Create a smooth cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy, giving it a rich, glossy consistency that clings to the meat.

Meatloaf Twists For Slow Cooker Magic

• Gluten-Free Meatloaf: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. Use gluten-free ranch and au jus seasoning packets to make the recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives like Beyond Meat or Impossible Foods. Adjust cooking time and seasoning to complement the plant protein.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium ranch and au jus packets. Replace peperoncini juice with a small amount of vinegar and herbs to maintain flavor complexity while reducing salt content.
• Spicy Kick Variation: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Include hot sauce in the gravy for an extra zingy flavor profile that brings heat to the classic Mississippi meatloaf.

Ideas For Serving Crock Pot Meatloaf With Style

• Comfort Plate Companions: Creamy mashed potatoes perfectly soak up the rich gravy, creating a classic comfort food combination.
• Tangy Side Kick: Crisp green salad with vinaigrette dressing cuts through the meatloaf's richness and adds refreshing contrast.
• Veggie Harmony: Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans complement the hearty meat dish and provide nutritional balance.
• Bread Buddy: Warm crusty bread or dinner rolls help soak up extra gravy and complete the satisfying meal experience.

Storing Meatloaf So It Stays Moist & Tasty

• Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual slices or whole meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag, preserving quality for up to 3 months.
• Place meatloaf slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, checking temperature to prevent dryness.

FAQs

• What makes Mississippi Meatloaf different from traditional meatloaf?

This version uses au jus and ranch seasoning mixes, which add unique tangy and savory flavors that traditional meatloaf doesn’t have. The addition of peperoncini peppers also gives it a distinctive zesty kick.

• Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Use lean ground turkey and be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out more quickly than beef.

• Do I need any special equipment to make this recipe?

You’ll need a 6 or 8-quart crock pot, large mixing bowls, and basic kitchen tools like whisks and spatulas. The aluminum foil is crucial for easy removal of the meatloaf from the slow cooker.

Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Mississippi meatloaf combines classic Southern comfort with slow cooker convenience. Rich beef, tangy pepperoncini, and zesty ranch seasoning create a hearty meal you’ll savor with simple prep and delicious results.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (regular breadcrumbs can be used)
• 2 large eggs, well beaten
• 1 cup milk (2% or higher)

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 (1 ounce) packets ranch seasoning mix, divided use
• 2 (1 ounce) packets au jus gravy mix, divided use
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 6 peperoncini peppers (optional, can use less)
• 1/4 cup peperoncini juice (optional, for spice)

Liquid and Thickening Agents:

• 3 cups cold water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

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Instructions

1. Line a 6-8 quart crock pot with a large foil sheet, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides. Generously spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine milk, eggs, sugar, one packet of au jus gravy mix, one ranch seasoning packet, and breadcrumbs until the mixture is uniform and smooth.
3. Gently incorporate ground beef into the mixture, using hands to blend ingredients without overworking the meat, which could result in a dense texture.
4. Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared crock pot, carefully molding it into an oval shape that allows even cooking.
5. Create the gravy by whisking cold water, peperoncini juice, remaining au jus and ranch seasoning packets in a separate bowl until thoroughly integrated.
6. Evenly distribute the prepared gravy over and around the meatloaf, ensuring complete coverage.
7. Strategically place peperoncini peppers across the top of the meatloaf for additional flavor.
8. Cook on low temperature for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours, confirming doneness when internal meat temperature reaches 165°F.
9. Delicately remove the meatloaf using two spatulas or by lifting the foil edges, transferring to a serving platter.
10. Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan, positioning over medium heat.
11. Prepare a cornstarch slurry by whisking cornstarch and water until completely smooth.
12. Once gravy simmers, gradually introduce the cornstarch mixture while continuously whisking. Allow to simmer for one minute until thickened, then remove from heat.
13. Slice the meatloaf and serve with the prepared gravy drizzled over each portion.

Notes

• Prevent Dryness by choosing meat with slightly higher fat content like 80/20 ground beef to keep the meatloaf moist and flavorful.
• Use Clean Hands when mixing ingredients to ensure even distribution without overworking the meat, which can make the texture tough.
• Customize Spice Levels by adjusting the amount of peperoncini peppers or using mild peppers for those with sensitive palates.
• Gluten-Free Option can be achieved by substituting breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (on Low) or 4 hours (on High)
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 469
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 1000 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg