Slow Cooker Turkey Meatloaf with Creamy Gravy Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the most flavorful gravy, use a good-quality dry gravy mix—look for one with herbs or onion. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of black pepper to the soup mixture, but the video keeps it simple.

If you prefer a thicker gravy, let the slow cooker cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.

Leftovers are fantastic the next day. Slice the meatloaf and reheat gently with the gravy and potatoes in a skillet or microwave.

You can also use leftovers to make a meatloaf sandwich with a little extra gravy on the side. The flavors only get better as they meld overnight.

Variations

• Beef and Pork Blend: Swap half the ground turkey for ground beef or pork for a richer flavor. Cook until the center reaches 160°F (71°C) for ground meat. Adjust the gravy mix to complement the meat.
• Add Vegetables: Tuck sliced carrots or celery around the meatloaf along with the potatoes. They'll cook in the gravy and become tender. Add them at the beginning so they have time to soften.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the soup mixture for a subtle heat. Or use a spicy gravy mix if you can find one.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free condensed cream of mushroom soup and a gluten-free dry gravy mix. Check labels carefully, as many gravy mixes contain wheat flour.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water if needed.

Freezer

Freeze leftover meatloaf and gravy in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The gravy will thicken when cold; add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen it. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

You can assemble the meatloaf, potatoes, gravy mix, and soup mixture in the slow cooker insert the night before, cover, and refrigerate.

In the morning, place the insert in the slow cooker and cook on low as directed. You may need to add 30 minutes to the cooking time if starting cold.

Serving ideas

Serve the meatloaf sliced, with the potatoes and gravy spooned over the top. A side of steamed green beans or a crisp green salad balances the richness. For a heartier meal, add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the extra gravy.

This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. The creamy gravy and tender potatoes make it feel like a special occasion, but it's simple enough for a weeknight.

Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, but it's not necessary—the flavor speaks for itself.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Turkey Meatloaf with Creamy Gravy

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 2 lb ground turkey
• 1 1/2 lb baby potatoes
• 1 oz dry gravy mix (turkey or chicken)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Place the ground turkey in the slow cooker and pat it into a smooth, oval loaf shape. Use your hands or a spatula to even out the top and sides so it cooks uniformly.
2. Tuck the baby potatoes around the meatloaf, nestling them into the bottom of the slow cooker. They will cook in the juices and gravy as the meatloaf cooks.
3. Sprinkle the dry gravy mix evenly over the meatloaf and potatoes. This will create a flavorful crust and thicken the cooking juices into a rich gravy.
4. In a small bowl, whisk the condensed cream of mushroom soup with the water until smooth. Pour the mixture over the meatloaf and potatoes, covering them evenly.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the turkey is cooked through and the potatoes are tender. The internal temperature of the meatloaf should reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.
6. Turn off the slow cooker and let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes. Using a spatula, carefully transfer the meatloaf to a serving plate, then spoon the potatoes and gravy around it.

Contains: gluten, milk, soy

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

420

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

32 g

Fat

20 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.