Slow Cooker Meatloaf and Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes
If you need an easy slow cooker meatloaf recipe, I have the perfect one for you! It's delicious and satisfies your craving for comfort food when paired with creamy slow cooker mashed potatoes.
If you need an easy slow cooker meatloaf recipe, I have the perfect one for you! It's delicious and satisfies your craving for comfort food when paired with creamy slow cooker mashed potatoes.
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- salt and pepper
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 pound lean ground pork
- â½ cup milk
- â½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 oz baby carrots (finely diced)
- 3 oz zucchini squash (finely diced)
- 1 ounce diced shallots
- 1 1/2 teaspoon all purpose seasoning
- 1 1/2 pounds dutch baby potatoes
- 1/2 cup buttermilk ((more if needed))
- 1/2 cup heavy cream ((more if needed))
- Carbohydrate 0.0130640625106005 g
- Cholesterol 81.4905839891351 mg
- Fat 19.1888676822977 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 21.2676824760456 g
- Saturated Fat 7.70704161211856 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (252g)
- Sodium 186.397908126639 mg
- Sugar 0.0130640625106005 g
- Trans Fat 1.92657011823322 g
- Calories 264 calories
Step-by-step
- Mix panko bread crumbs and milk in a small bowl and let soak for 5 minutes.
- Add to pork and beef in a large bowl.
- Add egg, diced veggies, shallot, and seasoning.
- Mix gently using hands until well mixed but do not overmix.
- Form into a loaf shape.
- Place baby potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add meatloaf to the slow cooker on a rack above potatoes OR use rolled foil strips to make your own rack.
- Add broth to cover potatoes, add the lid, and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 8.
- Remove potatoes to a large bowl (rinse if needed to remove bits of meat).
- Add cream, buttermilk, butter, and blend using a hand masher or electric mixer.
- Add more cream or milk if needed, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Slice meatloaf into 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick slices.
- Transfer pan drippings to a saucepan and add a cornstarch slurry of 1/4 cup cornstarch whisked with 1/4 cup water until smooth.
- Bring to a simmer until thickened and serve over meatloaf and potatoes.
Slow Cooker Comfort: Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes, the Perfect Weeknight Dinner
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" I need meals that are quick, easy, and, most importantly, delicious. This slow cooker meatloaf and buttermilk mashed potatoes recipe has become my go-to for satisfying everyone's cravings without sacrificing precious family time.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s a classic comfort food combination elevated by the convenience of the slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tender, juicy meatloaf with a rich, savory depth. And the buttermilk mashed potatoes? Oh my goodness, they're creamy, dreamy, and perfectly complement the meatloaf's hearty texture. I've tweaked the recipe over time, experimenting with different vegetables and spices to create a flavor profile that my family adores.
I love using baby potatoes for the mashed potatoes because they cook evenly and quickly in the slow cooker. While the meatloaf simmers away, the potatoes become incredibly tender, requiring minimal effort to mash them into creamy perfection. The buttermilk adds a tangy depth that perfectly balances the richness of the cream and butter. It's a simple addition that makes all the difference.
The entire process requires minimal hands-on time. I typically prep everything in the morning before work, pop it in the slow cooker, and come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for us. It’s a lifesaver on those busy evenings when I'm juggling a million things. The aroma that fills the house as it cooks is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. It’s a testament to the magic of slow cooking – letting the ingredients gently simmer and develop their full potential.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, or spices. Add some mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a bit of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless! I sometimes add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra touch of savory indulgence.
This meatloaf isn't just a weeknight dinner staple; it's also perfect for entertaining. It's impressive enough for company yet easy enough for a casual family gathering. The slow cooker does all the work, freeing you up to spend time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Serve it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Making this meatloaf and potatoes is more than just preparing a meal; it's about creating a comforting, heartwarming experience for my family. The aroma alone conjures up images of cozy evenings, laughter around the dinner table, and the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal together. It’s a testament to the power of simple food and the importance of family time.
So, the next time you find yourself scrambling for a weeknight dinner idea, give this slow cooker meatloaf and buttermilk mashed potatoes recipe a try. You won't be disappointed! It's the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and warmth that will quickly become a family favorite.
Trust me, this isn't just a recipe; it's a weeknight miracle worker! This recipe is incredibly flexible, so don't hesitate to change it up based on what you have available or what sounds good to you. Add some different herbs, swap out the vegetables, or even try different cheeses. It’s your creation now!
