If you’re looking for a classic comfort food with a twist, this Slow Cooker Parmesan Meatloaf is the perfect choice! Made with juicy ground beef, savory Parmesan cheese, Italian seasonings, and a hint of garlic, this meatloaf is loaded with flavor. Cooking it in the slow cooker makes it incredibly tender and juicy while freeing up your oven. This recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for weeknights, and a guaranteed family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Parmesan Meatloaf
- Tender & Juicy: Cooking the meatloaf in the slow cooker keeps it moist and full of flavor.
- Easy to Prepare: Just mix, shape, and let the slow cooker do the work!
- Italian-Inspired Flavors: Parmesan, Italian herbs, and garlic bring a delicious twist to classic meatloaf.
- Perfect for Busy Days: Hands-off cooking makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Great for Leftovers: This meatloaf reheats beautifully and can be used in sandwiches or with pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs (680g) ground beef (80% lean is ideal)
- ½ cup (50g / 0.11 lb) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (50g / 0.11 lb) breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (60ml) milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- ½ cup (120ml) marinara sauce (or ketchup if you prefer)
- ¼ cup (25g) shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Extra chopped parsley, for garnish
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender. - Shape the Meatloaf:
Form the mixture into a loaf shape that will fit in your slow cooker.
Step 2: Place the Meatloaf in the Slow Cooker
- Line the Slow Cooker:
For easier cleanup, line the bottom of your slow cooker with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will also make it easier to lift the meatloaf out after cooking. - Add the Meatloaf:
Place the shaped meatloaf into the slow cooker. - Top with Marinara:
Spread the marinara sauce (or ketchup) over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Meatloaf
- Cook on Low:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). - Add Cheese (Optional):
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatloaf, if desired. Cover and allow the cheese to melt.
Step 4: Serve
- Lift and Garnish:
Carefully lift the meatloaf out of the slow cooker using the parchment paper or foil. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired. - Slice and Serve:
Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or a side salad.
Notes
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked meatloaf, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Customize the Topping: You can use marinara sauce for an Italian twist or traditional ketchup if you prefer a classic taste.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap leftover slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well in this recipe, though the flavor will be slightly different. Just check the internal temperature for doneness, as turkey should reach 165°F (74°C).
Do I have to line the slow cooker?
Lining the slow cooker is optional but makes cleanup easier and helps lift the meatloaf out without breaking it.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Panko or Italian-style breadcrumbs work well. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How can I make this dairy-free?
You can skip the Parmesan cheese and use a non-dairy milk in place of regular milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!
Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Yes! You can add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Tips and Notes
- My Tip: For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
- Pro Trick: Avoid overmixing the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender; mix just until combined.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve this meatloaf with a side of roasted vegetables or a light Caesar salad for a complete meal.
Variations
- Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella in the center of the meatloaf for a cheesy surprise.
- BBQ Meatloaf: Use BBQ sauce instead of marinara or ketchup, and add a tablespoon of BBQ sauce to the meat mixture for a smoky twist.
- Italian Sausage Meatloaf: Substitute half of the ground beef with ground Italian sausage for an extra boost of flavor.
- Low-Carb Meatloaf: Use almond flour in place of breadcrumbs to make this meatloaf keto-friendly.
- Mushroom & Onion Meatloaf: Add finely chopped mushrooms and sautéed onions to the mixture for an earthy, savory twist.
Slow Cooker Parmesan Meatloaf
This Slow Cooker Parmesan Meatloaf is a tender, flavorful take on a classic dish, made easier with the slow cooker. Packed with savory Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs, this meatloaf stays juicy and flavorful as it cooks. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, it’s perfect for busy days when you want a comforting, homemade meal without a lot of effort.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs 0.68 kg ground beef
- ½ cup 0.12 lb grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup 0.25 lb Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup 0.12 L milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup 0.12 L marinara sauce (for topping)
- ¼ cup 0.06 lb shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape that will fit in your slow cooker.
Step 3: Place in the Slow Cooker
- Line the bottom of the slow cooker with a piece of parchment paper (optional, for easier removal), and place the meatloaf on top.
Step 4: Add Topping
- Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Meatloaf
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C).
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish
- If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle it over the meatloaf during the last 15 minutes of cooking, cover, and allow it to melt.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Carefully lift the meatloaf out of the slow cooker using the parchment paper, or transfer with a spatula. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Variation: For extra flavor, add a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of fresh basil to the meat mixture.
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