If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, look no further than this Slow Cooker Italian Meatloaf! Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful meatloaf infused with the rich tastes of Italy, all while your slow cooker does the heavy lifting. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, allowing the tantalizing aromas to fill your home as it simmers away for six hours. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe yields six generous servings that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to transform your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 lb Italian sausage, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, 1/2 cup marinara sauce, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and Italian sausage. Use your hands or a spatula to mix them together until well blended.
- Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the meat mixture. Mix everything together until fully incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into a loaf form. The loaf should be compact but not overly tight to ensure it stays moist during cooking.
- Prepare your slow cooker by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Place the formed meatloaf into the slow cooker. If desired, you can pour an additional 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over the top for added flavor and moisture.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the meatloaf to cook for approximately 6 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this can affect the cooking time and temperature.
- After 6 hours, check the internal temperature of the meatloaf with a meat thermometer. It should read at least 160°F (70°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker using two spatulas or a large serving fork. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices.
- Slice the meatloaf into thick portions and serve it warm, garnished with additional marinara sauce or Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Italian Meatloaf with a side of pasta or a fresh salad!
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality ground beef and Italian sausage. Fresh ingredients will elevate your meatloaf to a whole new level.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meat and other ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding chopped garlic, diced onions, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (70°C).
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the meatloaf to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and keeps each slice moist.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to drizzle more marinara sauce or sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for a delightful finish.
- Pair It Well: Serve your meatloaf with sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
