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#### Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
1. **In a large bowl**, combine the **ground beef**, **breadcrumbs**, **Parmesan cheese**, **egg**, **minced garlic**, **onion**, **milk**, **oregano**, **basil**, **parsley**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
2. **Shape the mixture** into a loaf shape that will fit comfortably in your slow cooker. If your slow cooker is larger, you can make a slightly larger loaf, but ensure it fits without touching the sides.
#### Step 2: Set Up the Slow Cooker
3. Grease the **slow cooker insert** with **olive oil** to prevent the meatloaf from sticking.
4. Place the **meatloaf** in the center of the slow cooker, making sure it’s not touching the sides. The goal is for the heat to circulate around the meatloaf evenly.
#### Step 4: Cook the Meatloaf
7. **Cover** the slow cooker with its lid and cook the meatloaf on **low for 6-7 hours** or on **high for 3-4 hours**, depending on your schedule. The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of **160°F (71°C)**, and the topping is bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and keeps the slices intact.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
9. Slice the meatloaf and serve with additional marinara sauce if desired. For a complete meal, pair it with roasted vegetables, a green salad, or mashed potatoes.
– **Unique Mediterranean Flavors**: This meatloaf features a delicious blend of herbs and Parmesan, which gives it a savory depth that sets it apart from traditional meatloaf recipes. The addition of garlic and onion adds a fragrant, flavorful base, while the marinara sauce topping enhances the overall taste.
– **Slow Cooker Convenience**: Letting the slow cooker work its magic means the meatloaf stays moist, and you don’t need to babysit it. You can set it and forget it, and the result will be a perfectly cooked meatloaf every time.
– **Family-Friendly**: Meatloaf is a dish that both kids and adults enjoy, and this version has a little extra flair that makes it exciting and new without straying too far from the comfort of the classic recipe.
– **Use Lean Ground Meat**: If you’re using ground beef, opt for lean or extra-lean ground beef to keep the meatloaf from being too greasy. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used as a healthier alternative.
– **Don’t Overmix**: Overmixing the meatloaf can make it tough. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
– **Rest Before Slicing**: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute. This prevents it from falling apart when sliced.
– **Add Veggies**: For extra flavor and nutrition, consider adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the meatloaf mixture.
– **Make it Spicy**: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the marinara topping for a spicy kick.
– **Swap the Meat**: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even ground lamb for a different flavor profile.
– **Add Cheese**: Incorporate a bit of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese into the meatloaf mixture for extra richness.
### Conclusion
