Slow Cooker Meatloaf with Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, hands-off meal that feels like a big warm hug on a plate, you have to try my Slow Cooker Meatloaf with Cheesy Potatoes Recipe. This dish pairs juicy, perfectly seasoned meatloaf with creamy, cheesy potatoes—all cooked together in your slow cooker. Trust me, it’s one of those meals that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your belly with pure happiness. Keep reading, and I’ll walk you through everything you need to nail this dish effortlessly.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this slow cooker meatloaf with cheesy potatoes recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a clear and tasty role, making the flavors sing without fuss. I always pick fresh produce and don’t skimp on the cheese—it really makes the potatoes pop!

• Ground beef: I use 10% fat for a juicy but not greasy meatloaf.
• Eggs: They help bind the meatloaf together so it holds its shape.
• White onion: Diced for the meatloaf and sliced with the potatoes, adds great sweetness and depth.
• Ketchup: For mixing in the meatloaf and a little extra on top—it’s classic and comforting.
• Saltine crackers: Crushed to keep the meatloaf tender without becoming dense.
• Salt, pepper, onion powder: Essential seasonings to make the flavors pop.
• Russet potatoes: Thinly sliced so they cook evenly and blend beautifully with the cheese.
• Butter: Melted and drizzled over the potatoes for extra richness.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Shredded and added at the end for that ooey-gooey cheesy finish.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re tweaking for dietary needs or just spicing things up, this dish is super adaptable.

• Ground turkey or chicken: I’ve swapped out beef for ground turkey when I want a lighter version—it still comes out juicy and flavorful.
• Veggie boost: Sometimes I add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the potato layer for extra nutrition and crunch.
• Spiced up: Adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne gives the meatloaf a subtle smoky kick that’s delicious.
• Cheese swaps: Feel free to experiment with pepper jack or mozzarella if sharp cheddar isn’t your go-to.

How to Make Slow Cooker Meatloaf with Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Meatloaf Ingredients

Start by combining the ground beef, eggs, diced onion, ketchup, crushed saltines, salt, pepper, and onion powder in a large bowl. Now, this part is important—mix gently but thoroughly. Overworking the meat can make your meatloaf tough, so I usually use my hands just until everything comes together evenly. It’s quick and gives you good control.

Step 2: Shape and Place Meatloaf in the Slow Cooker

Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it neatly on one side of your slow cooker. Try to keep it from touching the sides so it cooks evenly. Pro tip: I sometimes line the slow cooker with foil for easier cleanup, especially when things get cheesy later on.

Step 3: Prepare and Add Potatoes

Make a little “bowl” with a piece of foil next to the meatloaf. Fill this with the sliced potatoes and onions. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and onion powder, then toss everything gently by hand to coat. Drizzle melted butter over the top—that buttery goodness is what really takes these potatoes to the next level.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on the LOW setting for about 5 hours. Here’s a tip I learned the hard way—don’t open the lid while it’s cooking! The potatoes need the consistent steam to soften properly, so keep that lid shut and trust the process.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Final Touches

Once your timer goes off, sprinkle the sharp cheddar cheese over the potatoes, then cover again for about 5 minutes just until the cheese melts into a luscious blanket. While you’re waiting, squirt some ketchup over the meatloaf—it adds that nostalgic glaze everyone loves.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Scoop generous portions of meatloaf and cheesy potatoes onto your plate and dig in. You’ll find this combo hits all the right notes; creamy, savory, tender, and cheesy—everything you want in a cozy meal.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Meatloaf with Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep it simple here—fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled over the potatoes add a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes, I serve with a dollop of ketchup or a little mustard on the side, depending on what mood my family’s in.

Side Dishes

This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but if you want a green side, roasted Brussels sprouts or a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances everything perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For family gatherings, I’ve layered the potatoes and meatloaf in individual ramekins for cute, portion-controlled servings. It feels special and helps everyone enjoy their own cheesy meatloaf “pot pie” moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always put any leftover meatloaf and cheesy potatoes together or separately in airtight containers and keep them in the fridge for up to four days. This way, reheating is quick and convenient after a busy day.

Freezing

To freeze, portion out the meatloaf and potatoes in freezer-friendly containers. I recommend thawing overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture intact. This recipe freezes and thaws surprisingly well!

Reheating

When reheating, I cover the leftovers loosely with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which keeps the potatoes creamy and the meatloaf juicy. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the oven does a better job preserving texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Meatloaf with Cheesy Potatoes Recipe has become a staple in my household, especially on those busy days when I want something delicious but effortless. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat yet is so easy to throw together. I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) this the way my family and I do—it’s genuinely one of my go-to comfort food recipes. Give it a try, and I’d bet it’ll become one of your favorites too!

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