This meatloaf is a fun twist on a classic, made in a cozy crockpot with Dr. Pepper! It’s sweet, juicy, and packed full of flavor, making dinner a hit for everyone.
Honestly, who knew Dr. Pepper could be this good in meatloaf? 😂 I love to enjoy it with mashed potatoes or a simple salad—perfect for an easy weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 can work, but it’ll be drier. Ground turkey or chicken are good substitutes if you prefer poultry.
Dr. Pepper: The soda adds a hint of sweetness and flavor. If you’re looking for a non-caffeinated option, try a similar soda like root beer or a cola. For a healthier take, you can use a sugar-free version of Dr. Pepper!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatloaf. You can use Italian-style breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers if breadcrumbs are unavailable. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
Ketchup: This not only adds flavor but keeps the meatloaf moist. If you’re short on ketchup, try mixing tomato sauce with a bit of sugar and vinegar!
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Tender and Juicy?
A common challenge is making sure meatloaf stays nice and moist. Here are my tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; just combine until everything is well-blended.
- Including milk and eggs helps with moisture. Make sure to use them!
- Cooking it low and slow in the crockpot allows it to cook evenly without drying out.
- Let it rest after cooking for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making it easier to slice.
Crockpot Dr. Pepper Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Dr. Pepper soda
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and then cooks in the crockpot for 6-8 hours on low, or 3-4 hours on high. So, it’s perfect for a day when you want an easy dinner waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, Dr. Pepper, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and mustard. Stir everything until just combined, but don’t overmix; this helps keep the meatloaf tender!
2. Shape the Meatloaf:
Form the mixture into a loaf shape that fits nicely in your crockpot. Don’t worry about making it perfect; just aim for a good loaf shape that allows the heat to circulate evenly.
3. Place the Meatloaf in the Crockpot:
Carefully place the shaped meatloaf into the crockpot, making sure it sits flat at the bottom to cook evenly.
4. Add the Glaze:
Spread the barbecue sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will give it a delicious glaze as it cooks!
5. Cook the Meatloaf:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. You want the meatloaf to be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Cool and Slice:
Once cooked, carefully lift the meatloaf out of the crockpot. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it up with mashed potatoes and steamed carrots—or your favorite sides for a complete meal. Enjoy your deliciously different meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just be aware that turkey may yield a slightly drier meatloaf, so you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra egg or a splash of broth.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing slices of meatloaf in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf?
Yes! You can finely chop vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini and mix them into the meatloaf for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them small so they blend well into the meat mixture.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Meatloaf?
The best way to reheat meatloaf is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the slices on a baking sheet, covering them with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option but keep an eye on it to prevent overheating!
