Description
This Crockpot Mississippi Meatloaf is a flavorful, tender meatloaf slow-cooked to perfection with classic ranch and au jus seasonings, enriched by the tangy kick of pepperoncini peppers. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that yields a juicy, comforting dinner ideal for family meals and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground beef (90/10 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon minced dried onion
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch dressing seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 ounce) au jus gravy mix
Slow Cooker Sauce
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch dressing seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 ounce) au jus gravy mix
- 2 cups water
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers
Optional Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, milk, eggs, one ranch seasoning packet, one au jus gravy packet, and the minced dried onion. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the meat, which keeps the meatloaf tender.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining ranch and au jus seasoning packets with 2 cups of water. Set this mixture aside; it will create a flavorful sauce during slow cooking.
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Line the bottom of a 5-quart or larger slow cooker with foil and lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Shape and Place Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it on the foil inside the slow cooker, creating an even mound for consistent cooking.
- Add Sauce and Peppers: Pour the prepared ranch and au jus water mixture around and over the meatloaf. Then, tuck the 6-8 pepperoncini peppers around the loaf; their tanginess adds a distinctive flavor to the meatloaf as it cooks.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top of the meatloaf for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm, ideally over mashed potatoes or rice to absorb the flavorful juices.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (90/10) to balance flavor and prevent excessive grease.
- Do not overmix the meat to keep the meatloaf tender and moist.
- Line the slow cooker with foil for easier cleanup.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
- Adjust the number of pepperoncini peppers to your taste preference; more peppers will increase the tang and slight heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, or sliced and added to sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
