Slow Cooker Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf

### Instructions:

**1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or beef and pork mix), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, milk, oregano, basil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as it can make the meatloaf tough.

**2. Shape the Meatloaf:**
Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into a loaf form that will fit comfortably in your slow cooker. You want to make sure the loaf isn’t too large so it cooks evenly, but also not too small. A standard size should work for most slow cookers, but if you have a smaller slow cooker, consider halving the recipe.

**3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:**
Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent the meatloaf from sticking. Place the shaped meatloaf into the slow cooker, ensuring that it sits comfortably without touching the sides.

**4. Make the Glaze:**
In a small bowl, whisk together the marinara sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey (if using). This glaze gives the meatloaf a delicious tangy and slightly sweet finish. Pour the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf, covering it completely.

**5. Cook the Meatloaf:**
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatloaf is done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meat is cooked through. The slow cooker method ensures that the meatloaf stays moist and tender while the flavors meld together beautifully.

**6. Serve and Garnish:**
Once the meatloaf is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a serving platter. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a fresh flavor.

### Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf:
– **Mediterranean Flavors**: The addition of fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary, combined with Parmesan cheese, gives this meatloaf a Mediterranean twist that’s bursting with flavor.
– **Moist and Tender**: Cooking the meatloaf in a slow cooker keeps it incredibly moist, preventing it from drying out, even when cooked for several hours.
– **Easy to Make**: With minimal hands-on prep and the slow cooker doing all the work, this recipe is incredibly simple and perfect for busy days when you want a hearty dinner with minimal effort.
– **Healthy Ingredients**: This version of meatloaf uses lean ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork) and a homemade glaze, allowing you to control the ingredients and avoid processed sauces or sugars.

### Tips for Perfect Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf:
– **Use Lean Meat**: For a leaner meatloaf, you can use lean ground beef or ground turkey. Just keep in mind that it might not be as juicy as using fattier meat, so adding a little extra moisture (like milk or even grated vegetables) can help.
– **Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition**: For a more nutritious twist, you can add finely grated carrots, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture. These vegetables will cook down in the slow cooker and provide an extra dose of vitamins and fiber without affecting the flavor.
– **Customize the Glaze**: If you want to experiment with different flavors, feel free to add a little red wine vinegar, or substitute the balsamic vinegar for a touch of lemon juice to bring in a fresh, zesty flavor.

### Why Slow Cooker Meals Are So Great:
– **Set It and Forget It**: One of the best things about using a slow cooker is that once you’ve prepped your meal, you don’t have to think about it. This makes it ideal for busy weekdays or even weekends when you’re running errands or relaxing at home.
– **Even Cooking**: The low, steady heat of a slow cooker ensures that the flavors develop over time, making each bite rich and satisfying.
– **Minimal Cleanup**: Cooking in the slow cooker means fewer dishes, and the meatloaf comes out in one piece, making serving easy and cleanup a breeze.

### Final Thoughts:
Slow Cooker Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf is a delicious and easy way to elevate a classic comfort food with bold Mediterranean flavors. The combination of herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy glaze creates a flavorful and juicy meatloaf that’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you still want to enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal. Try it out and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!