Slow Cooker Italian Meatloaf

Mar 03, 2024Updated Jun 13, 2024

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Here is a recipe that will revolutionize your love for meatloaf – Slow Cooker Italian Meatloaf. This dish infuses classic meatloaf with the bold and savory flavors of Italian tradition. Add this to your next meal plan for a no-nonsense way to put a delicious dinner on the table.

I always like to pair meatloaf with Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Carrots, Slow Cooker Green Beans and Bacon, and Slow Cooker Focaccia Bread.

overhead of sliced Italian meatloaf in a slow cooker.

Why You Should Try This Italian Meatloaf Recipe
Recipe Ingredients
Step-by-Step Directions
How to Serve
Recipe FAQs
More Slow Cooker Meatloaf Recipes
Slow Cooker Italian Meatloaf Recipe

Why You Should Try This Italian Meatloaf Recipe

This crock pot meatloaf is a delicious recipe that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage gives it a rich and hearty flavor, while the marinara sauce keeps it moist and tender. In addition to flavorful goodness, it’s also easy to prep. Thanks to this meal being cooked in the slow cooker, you can set it and forget it until dinnertime.

Italian meatloaf is also versatile with lots of leftover potential, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this meatloaf is sure to be a hit. If you have venison, you will want to make my crockpot venison meatloaf recipe.

Recipe Ingredients

ingredients for slow cooker Italian meatloaf on a table.

Italian sausage: This flavorful ground sausage adds a bold and spicy kick to the meatloaf, infusing it with classic Italian flavors.
Ground beef: Hearty lean ground beef provides a rich and meaty base for the meatloaf, ensuring a satisfying and filling dish.
Italian bread crumbs: These seasoned bread crumbs help bind the meat mixture together while adding a subtle Italian flair and enhancing the texture of the meatloaf. Plain breadcrumbs will work as well.)
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Adds a nutty and savory depth of flavor, complementing the beef and sausage perfectly.
Large eggs: Acts as a binder for meatloaf recipes, helping to hold the meat loaf together and giving it a moist and tender texture.
Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with just the right amount of aromatic flavor, enhancing its overall taste and adding a delightful hint of garlic. (You can also use garlic powder.)
Yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth while balancing out the flavors of the sausage and beef.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients and ensuring it’s properly seasoned.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and warmth while also enhancing its overall flavor without overpowering it.
Marinara sauce: This classic Italian tomato sauce serves as a flavorful topping for the meatloaf, adding moisture and a tangy tomato taste to each slice.
Parsley (chopped): An optional garnish that adds a fresh and vibrant touch and provides a pop of color and a hint of herbal flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

four images showing how to make Italian meatloaf in a slow cooker.

Step One – Add the ground sausage, beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, diced onion, salt and pepper, along with 2 Tablespoons of the marinara sauce to a large mixing bowl.

Step Two – Mix together, gently (don’t overwork the mixture). Form a loaf shape, even so that there’s not a thinner end and it cooks evenly. Place the loaf into the slow cooker.

Step Three – Cover with the lid and cook meatloaf on LOW for 5 hours.

Step Four – Remove any of the liquid that has drained during cooking. I like to use my small ladle to do this, or you could use a turkey baster.

three images showing how to make Italian meatloaf in a slow cooker.

Step Five – Pour over the marinara sauce.

Step Six – Cook for another hour on HIGH.

Step Seven – When cooking time is up, slice the loaf and garnish with chopped parsley.

overhead of slow cooker Italian meatloaf.

How to Serve

Serve slices of the slow cooker Italian meatloaf alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans for a comforting and hearty meal. Drizzle extra marinara sauce over the meatloaf slices for added flavor, and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness. The meatloaf goes great with crockpot cabbage!
Transform leftover slices of the Italian meatloaf into delicious sandwiches. Toast thick slices of Italian bread, then layer them with warmed meatloaf slices, melted mozzarella cheese, and a spoonful of marinara sauce. Add some sautéed peppers and onions for extra flavor, and serve with a side of crispy oven-baked fries or a simple green salad.
Turn leftover Italian meatloaf into a comforting pasta bake. Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions, then toss it with marinara sauce. Slice the leftover meatloaf into cubes and mix it into the pasta. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and bake until heated through and bubbly. Serve with garlic breadsticks and a side salad for a satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

overhead shot of serving of slow cooker Italian meatloaf on a white plate.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use different types of meat for the meatloaf?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage, feel free to customize it to your preferences. You can try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or mix in different types of sausages for added flavor complexity. Just ensure that the total amount of meat remains the same to maintain the recipe’s balance.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done cooking?

The best way to ensure your meatloaf is cooked through is by using a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of the loaf; it should read 160°F (71°C) when done. Additionally, the meatloaf should be firm to the touch, and juices should run clear. If you’re using a slow cooker, follow the recommended cooking time in the recipe, as slow cookers may vary in temperature.

Can I freeze leftover meatloaf?

Yes! Leftover meatloaf freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

serving of Italian meatloaf with mashed potatoes and green beans on a white plate.

More Slow Cooker Meatloaf Recipes

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