Without a doubt, this is the most amazing recipe we've ever tried at home.

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that has graced American dinner tables for generations. Its origins are rooted in frugality, making use of ground meat and pantry staples to create a hearty meal. This slow cooker version with a barbecue glaze offers a modern twist, infusing the dish with smoky and tangy flavors that elevate the traditional meatloaf. Perfect for busy days, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that the whole family will love.

This slow cooker meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of roasted vegetables, which complement the rich flavors of the barbecue glaze. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans. A slice of crusty bread on the side can help mop up any extra sauce, making for a satisfying and complete meal.

Servings: 6

2 pounds ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
2 eggs
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 sprigs fresh parsley for garnish

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Shape the mixture into an oval loaf and place it in a foil-lined slow cooker.

In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Pour half of the sauce over the meatloaf, reserving the rest for later.

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

About 30 minutes before the meatloaf is done, pour the remaining barbecue sauce over the top.

Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker using the foil. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or pork, for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase the amount of brown sugar or try using honey. For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.