Mississippi Meatloaf

This Mississippi Meatloaf recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that everyone will love. With its blend of savory seasonings and rich gravy, this meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The ease of using a crock pot makes it a convenient option for busy days. Enjoy the tender meatloaf paired with delicious gravy, making it an unforgettable comfort food experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: This slow cooker recipe allows you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time for other tasks.
• Rich Flavor: Combining ranch seasoning and au jus mix creates a depth of flavor that elevates the classic meatloaf.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making it great for lunches the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Family and friends won’t be able to resist this hearty dish, making it ideal for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Mississippi Meatloaf, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6 or 8-quart crock pot
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Spatula
• Medium sauce pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Crock Pot: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, resulting in tender meatloaf with minimal effort.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining the meatloaf ingredients without spillover.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients are well blended for a uniform flavor throughout the meatloaf.

Ingredients

This Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf recipe features lean ground beef, savory seasonings, and a rich gravy for a delicious meal.

• 1 cup milk (2% or higher)
• 2 large eggs, well beaten
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 (1 ounce) packets au jus gravy mix, divided use
• 2 (1 ounce) packets ranch seasoning mix, divided use
• 1 cup panko breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs (regular breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs can be used)
• 2 pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
• 3 cups cold water
• ¼ cup peperoncini juice (optional, for spice)
• 6 peperoncini peppers (optional, can use less)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mississippi Meatloaf

Step 1: Prepare the Crock Pot

In your crock pot, line the bottom with a large piece of foil that goes up the sides. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, one packet of au jus gravy mix, one packet of ranch seasoning mix, and panko breadcVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)bs until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine with Ground Beef

Add the lean ground beef to the mixture:
1. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Use clean hands for best results.

Step 4: Shape and Place in Crock Pot

Gently shape the mixture into an oval and place it into the lined crock pot.

Step 5: Prepare Gravy Mixture

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together cold water, peperoncini juice, remaining au jus gravy mix, and ranch seasoning until well mixed.

Step 6: Add Gravy Over Meatloaf

Pour this mixture over the meatloaf:
1. Ensure it’s evenly covering both the top and sides.

Step 7: Add Peperoncini Peppers

Place six peperoncini peppers on top of your meatloaf for added flavor.

Step 8: Cook Your Meatloaf

Cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours:
1. Check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F before serving.

Step 9: Remove Meatloaf Carefully

Once done:
1. Gently lift out using two spatulas or by pulling on the foil edges.

Step 10: Strain Gravy

Strain any remaining gravy from your crock pot into a medium-sized sauce pot over medium heat.

Step 11: Thicken Gravy

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth.
2. Once gravy simmers, slowly pour in cornstarch slurry while whisking continuously.
3. Allow to simmer until thickened (about one minute).

Step 12: Serve

Slice your Mississippi Meatloaf:
1. Serve warm with thickened gravy drizzled over each portion.

Enjoy this delightful Mississippi Meatloaf as a comforting meal perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Mississippi Meatloaf

Mississippi Meatloaf is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your meal experience. Pair it with sides and garnishes that enhance its rich flavors for a delightful dining experience.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth texture of mashed potatoes complements the savory meatloaf perfectly.

On a Sandwich

• Meatloaf Sandwich: Slice the meatloaf and place it between two pieces of bread with your favorite condiments for a tasty lunch option.

With Gravy Drizzle

• Extra Gravy: Drizzle the thickened gravy over each slice for added moisture and flavor, making every bite delicious.

Topped with Cheese

• Cheesy Delight: Add shredded cheese on top of the hot meatloaf before serving for an indulgent twist.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Serve alongside fresh vegetables to balance the richness of the meatloaf.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives on top adds a fresh touch to your dish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

How to Perfect Mississippi Meatloaf

To achieve the best results with your Mississippi Meatloaf, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients like fresh ground beef and flavorful seasonings for maximum taste.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the meat just until combined to ensure a tender texture; overmixing can lead to toughness.
• Use a Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to reach 165°F, ensuring your meatloaf is cooked perfectly.
• Let It Rest: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing. This helps maintain its juices and prevents it from falling apart.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add additional spices or herbs like garlic powder or thyme for more depth of flavor.
• Customize Toppings: Top with different sauces or cheese varieties according to your preferences for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Mississippi Meatloaf

Mississippi Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra gravy.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the meatloaf.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while providing a sweet contrast.
4. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans works well alongside savory meatloaf, creating a comforting combination.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings summer vibes and pairs beautifully with any main dish.
6. Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb option, creamy cauliflower mash offers a lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a delightful sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the meal.
8. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad provides lightness and freshness, balancing the hearty meatloaf.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Mississippi Meatloaf even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can lead to a tough meatloaf. Combine the ingredients until just mixed for a tender texture.
• Ignoring the cooking time: Cooking too long can dry out your meatloaf. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Skipping the foil: Not lining your crock pot with foil can make cleanup difficult. Always use foil for easy removal and cleaning.
• Not letting it rest: Slicing immediately can cause juices to run out. Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes before slicing for better moisture retention.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mississippi Meatloaf in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Mississippi Meatloaf

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Mississippi Meatloaf

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and cover with foil, reheating for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mississippi Meatloaf?

Mississippi Meatloaf is a flavorful dish made with lean ground beef, ranch seasoning, and au jus gravy, cooked slowly in a crock pot.

Can I customize my Mississippi Meatloaf?

Yes! You can add vegetables like onions or bell peppers or adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer peperoncini.

How do I know when my Mississippi Meatloaf is done?

The meatloaf is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F. A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked properly.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option while still enjoying the flavors of Mississippi Meatloaf.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf is not only easy to prepare but also packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, as it stores well and tastes even better the next day. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or sides, making it your own unique dish!