Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Hobo Dinner in the Slow Cooker Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This Hobo Dinner in the Slow Cooker is a comforting and easy one-pot meal featuring seasoned ground beef meatloaf paired with tender, buttery potatoes and onions. Cooked low and slow to perfection, this hearty dinner comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals. The sharp cheese melted atop the vegetables and a fresh ketchup topping on the meatloaf adds delicious finishing touches.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf:

  • 1 lb. 10% fat ground beef
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup white onion, diced
  • ¼ cup ketchup
  • ¼ tsp. salt
  • ¼ tsp. pepper
  • ½ tsp. onion powder
  • 15 Saltine crackers, crushed

Potatoes and Onions:

  • 4 small russet potatoes, sliced
  • ½ cup white onion, sliced
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • ½ tsp. onion powder
  • ¼ tsp. pepper
  • 3 Tbsp. butter, melted

Finishing:

  • 1 cup sharp cheese, shredded (to add at the end)
  • Ketchup for topping meatloaf

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, diced white onion, ketchup, salt, pepper, onion powder, and crushed Saltine crackers. Mix gently to incorporate all ingredients without over mixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
  2. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape and place it on one side of the slow cooker, ensuring it does not touch the sides of the cooker for even cooking.
  3. Create Foil Bowl: Make a small bowl using a foot or so of aluminum foil and position it next to the meatloaf inside the slow cooker. This will hold the potatoes and onions.
  4. Add Potatoes and Onions: Place the sliced potatoes and sliced onions into the foil bowl next to the meatloaf.
  5. Season the Vegetables: Sprinkle the potatoes and onions with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Toss them gently by hand to coat evenly.
  6. Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the seasoned potatoes and onions for richness and flavor.
  7. Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on LOW for 5 hours. Avoid opening the lid during cooking, as this will prevent the potatoes from becoming tender.
  8. Melt the Cheese: After 5 hours, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheese evenly over the potatoes and onions. Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
  9. Add Ketchup Topping: Spread ketchup over the top of the cooked meatloaf to add moisture and tangy flavor.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the meatloaf and vegetables from the slow cooker and serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.

Notes

  • Do not open the slow cooker lid during cooking to ensure the potatoes become tender.
  • Using a foil bowl keeps the potatoes and onions separate from the meatloaf for even cooking and easy serving.
  • You can adjust the seasoning in the meatloaf and potatoes to taste, adding garlic powder or herbs if desired.
  • For extra moisture, brush the meatloaf with additional ketchup before or during cooking if preferred.
  • Leftover hobo dinner can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: hobo dinner, slow cooker recipes, meatloaf, potatoes, comfort food, easy dinner

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://isabellavance.com/hobo-dinner-in-the-slow-cooker-recipe/