Name: Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 390 min
Total time: 405 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground beef (or half beef, half pork); 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 packet au jus gravy mix; ½ cup chopped pepperoncini peppers; ¼ cup pepperoncini juice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons butter (sliced (for topping)); Extra pepperoncini slices (for topping)

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Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf, where bold Southern flavors meet tender, juicy meat cooked low and slow. The magic lies in the combination of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, and tangy pepperoncini that bring every bite to life with a satisfying kick.

This hands-off dish is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty dinner waiting with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving family or friends, this meatloaf delivers both classic nostalgia and a surprising twist that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless slow cooker method lets flavors meld beautifully while keeping meatloaf moist and tender.
Unique seasoning with ranch and au jus adds depth and irresistible savory notes.
Pepperoncini peppers inject a mild tangy heat that enhances each bite without overpowering.
Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd with minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

Ground beef (2 lbs / 900 g): The base protein for a rich, juicy meatloaf, can be mixed with pork for extra tenderness.
Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Helps bind the meatloaf together while maintaining a tender texture.
Large eggs (2): Natural binders that hold the mixture firmly for slicing after cooking.
Milk (½ cup): Adds moisture to keep the meatloaf soft and helps dissolve dry seasonings.
Ranch seasoning mix (1 packet): Creamy and herbaceous blend that infuses classic Southern flavor into the meat.
Au jus gravy mix (1 packet): Adds rich, beefy depth and a subtle savory complexity to the dish.
Chopped pepperoncini peppers (½ cup): Tangy and slightly spicy peppers lending a zesty bite that brightens the meatloaf.
Pepperoncini juice (¼ cup): Juicy tanginess from the peppers that adds moisture and a slight kick to the mix.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances savory flavors with its warm, aromatic note.
Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Brings sweet, mellow onion flavor to complement the meat.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and balances the seasoning.
Butter slices (2 tablespoons): Placed on top during cooking for a luscious, buttery finish.
Extra pepperoncini slices: Garnish for added flavor and visual appeal.

Instructions

Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ranch seasoning, au jus mix, chopped pepperoncini, pepperoncini juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until just combined. Overmixing will make the meatloaf dense, so combine until evenly incorporated but still tender.
Shape the Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on parchment paper or foil inside your crock pot. For even cooking and easier lifting, roll some foil into small balls and set them underneath the foil to slightly elevate the meatloaf off the base.
Add Toppings: Arrange sliced butter over the top of the meatloaf, then scatter a few extra pepperoncini slices for flavor and garnish. The butter melts during cooking to keep the top moist and add richness.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crock pot and cook the meatloaf on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Cooking low and slow ensures the meat stays juicy and absorbs the pepperoncini and ranch flavors deeply. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
Rest Before Serving: Remove the meatloaf and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in cleaner slices that retain their moisture without falling apart.
Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the flavorful juices over meatloaf slices and serve alongside classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, green beans, or fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

You Must Know

Make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked and safe.
Do not skip the resting step as it keeps the meatloaf moist and helps it hold shape when slicing.
Using foil balls as a rack helps prevent sticking and promotes even heat circulation inside the crock pot.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven to retain moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mississippi meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a classic comfort meal. For a lighter twist, pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Professional Tips

For extra moist meatloaf, add ¼ cup of sour cream to the meat mixture for creaminess.
Incorporate ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese into the mix for a delicious cheesy surprise inside.
For more spice, increase the amount of pepperoncini juice or chopped peppers based on your heat preference.
To add a crisp crust, broil meatloaf slices for 3 minutes after slow cooking.

FAQs

Can I use other ground meats?: Yes, you can substitute part or all of the ground beef with ground pork or turkey for different flavors and textures.
Do I need to add water to the crock pot?: No additional water is required as the pepperoncini juice and meat release enough moisture during cooking.
Can I freeze leftovers?: Yes, slice the cooled meatloaf and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this meatloaf?: Mashed potatoes, green beans, rice, or roasted vegetables all pair beautifully to complete your meal.
Can I make this on the stovetop?: This recipe is designed for slow cooking, but you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour if needed.