This Crockpot Sloppy Joe Meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with ground beef, zesty sauce, and topped with a sweet glaze, giving you that yummy sloppy joe flavor.
I love that I can just set it and forget it in my slow cooker. Plus, my family thinks it’s the coolest meatloaf ever! Serve it on buns for an easy meal everyone will enjoy. 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for the best flavor without too much grease. If you want a healthier version, you could substitute with turkey or chicken!
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs give extra flavor, but regular ones work great too. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as a substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts beautifully, but feel free to mix it up! Mozzarella or pepper jack can create different flavors. More cheese is always a good idea.
Sloppy Joe Sauce: You can use homemade sauce made from ketchup, mustard, and spices, or grab a bottle from the store. For a twist, try BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor!
How Do You Keep Meatloaf Moist in a Slow Cooker?
Keeping meatloaf moist can be tricky, but using the right techniques will help. Mixing eggs and milk into the ground beef makes a softer texture, while the sauce on top adds flavor and moisture.
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid tough meatloaf.
- Make sure to cover the crockpot—it helps keep steam inside, making the meatloaf tender.
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking; this lets the juices redistribute.
Crockpot Sloppy Joe Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for layering)
- 1 cup sloppy joe sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 6-8 hours of cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s a wonderful set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, green bell pepper (if using), minced garlic, eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until everything is just combined—don’t overmix, or your meatloaf might turn out tough!
2. Form the Loaf:
Divide the meat mixture into two equal parts. On a piece of parchment paper or right in the crockpot, shape the first half into a loaf. This will be the bottom layer.
3. Add the Cheese Layer:
Spread the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the first loaf layer. This adds a delicious cheesy surprise right in the middle!
4. Finish Forming the Loaf:
Take the second half of the meat mixture and form it into a loaf as well. Carefully place this loaf on top of the cheese layer to create a stuffed meatloaf.
5. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the sloppy joe sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar. This is your tasty glaze!
6. Add the Sauce to the Meatloaf:
Pour half of the sauce mixture over the top of the meatloaf, saving the rest for later. This will seep into the meat and create a nice flavor.
7. Cook the Meatloaf:
Place the stuffed meatloaf in the crockpot and cover it with the lid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until it’s fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
8. Add More Sauce:
About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, pour the remaining sauce mixture over the meatloaf for an extra glaze. It makes everything even more flavorful!
9. Rest the Meatloaf:
Once done, carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it hold together when you slice it!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the meatloaf and serve garnished with fresh parsley. Pair it with mashed potatoes, pickles, or on buns to enjoy that classic sloppy joe experience!
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, saucy Crockpot Sloppy Joe Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative! Just be mindful that turkey can sometimes be a bit drier, so adding a splash more milk or an additional egg can help keep it moist.
What If I Don’t Have Sloppy Joe Sauce?
No worries! You can easily make your own by mixing equal parts ketchup and mustard, adding a bit of brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of vinegar or hot sauce for some zing!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Cool the leftover meatloaf completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
If you like heat, you can add some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the sauce mixture for an extra kick!