Dump dry stuffing mix over raw ground beef, together with 3 ingredients, into slow cooker for a hearty meal that I make without even thinking
This slow cooker poor man independence loaf is the kind of hearty, budget-friendly dinner that earns a regular spot in a busy family meal plan. It takes a handful of simple pantry and fridge staples, layers them right into the slow cooker, and turns them into a comforting meatloaf-style supper with very little hands-on work. The dry stuffing mix stands in for breadcrumbs and seasoning all at once, which makes this especially handy on nights when you want something filling without a lot of thinking or prep.
Serve thick slices with mashed potatoes, buttered green beans, sweet corn, or simple roasted carrots for a classic comfort-food plate. If you want to stretch the meal a little further, add a side of dinner rolls, applesauce, or a crisp salad, and the leftovers are also wonderful tucked into sandwiches the next day.
Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Poor Man Independence Loaf
Servings: 6
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 box (6 ounces) dry stuffing mix
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 large eggs
1/2 cup ketchup
Directions
1. Lightly grease the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker or line it with a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup.
2. Add the raw ground beef to the slow cooker and break it up a little with clean hands or a spoon so it spreads evenly across the bottom.
3. Sprinkle the dry stuffing mix evenly over the ground beef.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, eggs, and ketchup until smooth, then pour the mixture evenly over the stuffing mix.
5. Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the loaf is cooked through and reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit in the center.
6. Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving so it holds together more easily.
7. Slice into portions and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Variations & Tips
For a smoother texture: If your family prefers a more classic meatloaf texture, mix the ground beef, stuffing mix, soup, eggs, and ketchup together in a large bowl before transferring it to the slow cooker. That makes a more uniform slice.
For picky eaters: Use plain stuffing mix if possible and serve extra ketchup on the side. This keeps the flavor gentle and familiar for kids and anyone who likes simple meals.
To prevent excess moisture: Slow cookers can vary, so if your loaf seems a little wet at the end, uncover it for the last 20 to 30 minutes of cooking. That helps some of the extra steam escape.
Easy flavor change: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for condensed cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor while keeping the same easy method.
Make it a full meal: If you have room, tuck foil-wrapped potatoes around the sides of the slow cooker insert only if your model allows safe use that way; otherwise, simply serve with quick microwave potatoes or prepared mashed potatoes for an easy supper.
