This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food, infused with Mediterranean flavors like oregano, basil, and fresh parsley. Slow-cooked to perfection, the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful, making it an easy, hands-off dinner that the whole family will love. Topped with marinara sauce and packed with Parmesan, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients for Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a rich, savory flavor)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for binding and texture)
- 1/4 cup milk (for moisture)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten (for binding)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano (for Mediterranean flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional for topping)
Instructions for Slow Cooker Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mix), Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together gently using your hands or a wooden spoon until all the ingredients are evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
2. Form the Meatloaf
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on a piece of aluminum foil or parchment paper. This helps lift the meatloaf out of the slow cooker more easily.
- If your slow cooker has a trivet or rack, you can place the meatloaf on it to prevent it from sitting in its own juices. Otherwise, the foil or parchment will work just fine.
3. Slow Cook the Meatloaf
- Place the foil-wrapped meatloaf into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) and is cooked through.
4. Optional Marinara Topping
- About 30 minutes before the meatloaf is done cooking, you can top it with 1/2 cup of marinara sauce for extra flavor. Spread the marinara over the top of the meatloaf, cover, and let it continue cooking.
5. Rest and Serve
- Once the meatloaf is done, carefully lift it out of the slow cooker using the foil or parchment paper. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the meatloaf stays moist.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Mix of Meats: Using a mix of ground beef and pork gives the meatloaf extra flavor and moisture, but you can stick with just beef if you prefer.
- Breadcrumbs Substitute: For a gluten-free option, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Cheese Options: You can substitute the Parmesan with Romano or a combination of the two for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Herbs: If you love fresh herbs, feel free to add extra parsley or basil for more Mediterranean flair.
Variations for Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf
1. Low-Carb/Keto Version
- Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to make this meatloaf low-carb or keto-friendly.
- You can also omit the marinara sauce or use a sugar-free marinara to keep the carb count low.
2. Turkey Meatloaf
- For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef and pork with ground turkey or ground chicken. The cook time remains the same, but make sure to monitor the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
3. Cheese-Stuffed Meatloaf
- For an indulgent twist, stuff the center of the meatloaf with a layer of mozzarella cheese or feta before forming the loaf. As it cooks, the cheese will melt and add an extra burst of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I prepare this meatloaf in advance?
Yes! You can mix the meatloaf ingredients and shape the loaf up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to allow it to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutesbefore placing it in the slow cooker.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
3. Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the slow cooker instructions.
4. What sides go well with this meatloaf?
This Mediterranean herb meatloaf pairs wonderfully with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, couscous, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or pasta for a complete meal.
A Mediterranean Twist on a Classic
This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf is a flavorful and satisfying twist on a classic dish. The addition of Mediterranean herbs like oregano and basil, combined with the richness of Parmesan cheese, makes this meatloaf a savory delight. Whether you top it with marinara sauce or serve it as is, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for slow-cooking. With variations to suit different dietary needs, this meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
