Introduction

This Crockpot Mississippi Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic dish. Slow-cooked to juicy perfection with tangy pepperoncini peppers and savory seasoning packets, it’s an effortless meal perfect for busy days.

The image shows a slow cooker with a meatloaf inside, resting on a sheet of crumpled aluminum foil. The meatloaf is rich brown in color and covered with a glossy, reddish-brown sauce. On top and around the meatloaf, there are several yellowish-green whole peppers, some partially submerged in the sauce. Small bits of green herbs are lightly sprinkled on the meatloaf's surface, adding a splash of color. The slow cooker's inner pot is black and shiny, contrasting with the white marbled surface beneath it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (90/10)
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 cup milk
2 eggs
2 (1 ounce) ranch dressing seasoning packets
2 (1 ounce) au jus gravy mix packets
1 tablespoon minced dried onion
2 cups water
6-8 pepperoncini peppers
Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, panko bread crumbs, milk, eggs, one ranch seasoning packet, one au jus gravy mix packet, and minced dried onion until just combined.
Step 2: Whisk the remaining ranch and au jus seasoning packets with the water, then set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Line the bottom of a 5-quart (or larger) slow cooker with foil, then spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the foil in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Pour the prepared water and seasoning mixture over and around the meatloaf, then add the pepperoncini peppers to the slow cooker.
Step 6: Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Step 8: Serve the meatloaf warm over mashed potatoes or rice and enjoy your hearty meal.

Tips & Variations

Use 80/20 ground beef for a richer flavor and slightly juicier meatloaf.
For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
Consider topping the cooked meatloaf with a slice of cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a melty finish.
Substitute pepperoncini peppers with mild banana peppers if you prefer less heat.
If you don’t have ranch or au jus packets, try making your own seasoning mixes with garlic powder, onion powder, beef bouillon, and dried herbs.

Storage

Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf tightly wrapped for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a dish with three main layers on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a bed of creamy, mashed potatoes with a smooth texture and a few green herb pieces sprinkled on top. Above the mashed potatoes lies a thick, brown meatloaf with a slightly rough surface, sliced into thick portions. The meatloaf is covered with a glossy, dark brown gravy that drips down onto the mashed potatoes. A fork is held close to the camera, lifting a chunk of the meatloaf, showing its crumbly and moist texture. In the background, there is a blurred wooden pepper grinder and some green peas. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, but the meatloaf may be less juicy. Adding a bit of olive oil or a small amount of ground pork can help maintain moisture.

Do I need to line the slow cooker with foil?

Lining the slow cooker with foil makes cleanup easier and prevents the meatloaf from sticking. You can skip this step if you generously spray the slow cooker with cooking spray, but using foil is recommended for best results.