️ Mini Slow Cooker Meatloaf for One or Two

Tender, juicy, and full of comforting flavor, this small-batch slow cooker meatloaf is ideal for solo dinners or cozy meals for two. Seasoned with aromatic onions, garlic, and thyme, and finished with a sweet-and-sour glaze made from ketchup and molasses, this dish is simple, hands-free, and full of classic meatloaf goodness.

---

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 1 to 2

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6 hours (low)

• Total Time: ~6 hours 15 minutes

• Method: Slow cooker (Crockpot)

• Difficulty: Easy

• Ideal for: Busy days, single servings, meal prep

---

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1/2 pound (225g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 for best flavor)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 large egg

• 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs

  • Alternative: 3 tbsp almond flour or 4 tbsp old-fashioned oats

For the Glaze:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup

• 1 tablespoon molasses

---

️ Equipment

• Small slow cooker (1.5 to 3-quart size)

• Aluminum foil (for easy removal and cleanup)

• Non-stick spray

• Mixing bowl

• Small skillet

---

Instructions

‍ Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

1. Cut a 12-inch piece of aluminum foil in half lengthwise.

2. Fold each strip lengthwise again to create two long, sturdy strips.

3. Cross the strips in the bottom of your slow cooker to create a “sling.”

   • Trim the foil so it doesn’t extend beyond the top edge.

4. Spray both the foil and the interior of the slow cooker bowl with non-stick cooking spray.

Why foil? It acts as a sling to lift the meatloaf out easily, keeping excess grease in the pot and preserving the shape of the loaf.

---

Step 2: Cook Aromatics

1. In a small skillet, melt 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).

3. Stir in dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 1 minute more.

4. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.

Pro Tip: Sautéing onions and garlic in butter not only mellows their sharpness but adds richness and moisture to the meatloaf.

---

Step 3: Mix the Meatloaf

1. In a large bowl, combine:

   • Ground beef

   • Sautéed onion and garlic

   • Worcestershire sauce

   • Egg

   • Breadcrumbs (or oat/almond flour alternative)

2. Gently mix by hand or with a spoon until just combined.

   • Do not overmix, which can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Shape into a rounded or oval loaf (about 5 inches long).

---

Step 4: Slow Cook

1. Gently transfer the meatloaf to the center of the foil sling in your slow cooker.

2. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours.

---

Step 5: Add the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix:

   • 1/4 cup ketchup

   • 1 tbsp molasses

2. At the 5½-hour mark, spread the glaze over the top of the meatloaf.

3. Re-cover and cook for the final 30 minutes.

✨ The glaze becomes beautifully sticky and caramelized in the last half hour.

---

Step 6: Serve and Store

1. Use the foil sling to lift the meatloaf out.

2. Let it rest 5–10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

3. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted veggies.

---

️ Serving Suggestions

• Classic combo: Buttery mashed potatoes and steamed peas or green beans

• Low-carb option: Cauliflower mash or a crisp green salad

• Leftover idea: Slice and reheat in a skillet or air fryer, then tuck into a sandwich

---

Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

---

Variations & Tips

• Add-ins: Try finely chopped bell peppers, parsley, or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard.

• Protein switch: Use ground turkey or chicken, but reduce breadcrumbs slightly for moisture.

• Gluten-free: Use almond flour or certified gluten-free oats.