Mississippi Meatloaf (Print Version)
Ingredients:
01 -
1 cup milk (2% or higher).
02 -
2 large eggs, well beaten.
03 -
2 teaspoons granulated sugar.
04 -
2 (1 ounce) packets au jus gravy mix, divided use.
05 -
2 (1 ounce) packets ranch seasoning mix, divided use.
06 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (regular breadcrumbs can be used).
07 -
2 pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10).
08 -
3 cups cold water.
09 -
¼ cup peperoncini juice (optional, for spice).
10 -
6 peperoncini peppers (optional, can use less).
11 -
2 tablespoons cornstarch.
12 -
2 tablespoons water.
Instructions:
01 -
In a 6 or 8-quart crock pot, place a large piece of foil into the bottom of the slow cooker, making sure it goes up the sides. Spray the foil with nonstick cooking spray.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, 1 packet of the au jus gravy mix, 1 packet of the ranch seasoning mix, and the breadcrumbs until fully mixed.
03 -
Add the ground beef to the bowl. Mix everything together until combined, but don’t overmix to avoid tough meatloaf. Use clean hands for best results.
04 -
Add the meatloaf mixture to the crock pot and gently shape it into an oval.
05 -
In another bowl, whisk together the cold water, peperoncini juice, and the remaining packets of au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning. Mix until well combined.
06 -
Pour this gravy over the meatloaf and around the sides.
07 -
Place the peperoncini peppers on top of the meatloaf.
08 -
Cook on low for 5-6 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It is done when the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F.
09 -
Carefully lift out the meatloaf and place it on a serving dish. Use two spatulas to lift it out, or grab the sides of the foil, though this may be tricky with the gravy.
10 -
Strain the gravy from the crock pot into a medium-sized sauce pot and place over medium heat.
11 -
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
12 -
Once the gravy comes to a simmer, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while whisking continuously. Allow to simmer for 1 minute until thickened, then turn off the heat.
13 -
Slice and serve the meatloaf, adding the gravy over each portion.