Big Meatball Italian Meatloaf (Slow Cooker)

Love juicy, moist, savory meatballs? Then this recipe is a must make! Slow cooker Italian meatloaf tastes exactly like a giant meatball served on spaghetti. This easy weeknight recipe combines ground beef, parmesan, seasonings, and bread crumbs, all smothered in marinara sauce, and cooked in the crock pot for a hands-off, effortless dinner.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 10

Servings

Author Melissa Erdelac

Ingredients

3 large eggs lightly beaten
2 garlic cloves minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
½ cup bread crumbs see recipe notes for gluten-free
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 ½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
2 pounds lean ground beef
2 cups jarred marinara sauce (can use additional for serving)
For serving spaghetti regular or gluten free

Instructions

Fold a 2-foot length of aluminum foil or parchment in half lengthwise. Place it in the slow cooker in the lengthwise direction, pressing along bottom and sides. Roll over the excess foil to make "handles" for lifting when the meatloaf is done.
In a large bowl whisk together the eggs, garlic, Parmesan, bread crumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the ground beef and mix throughly with spoon or hands until mixture is evenly incorporated.
3 large eggs, 2 garlic cloves, 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, ½ cup bread crumbs, ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon ground pepper, 2 pounds lean ground beef
Shape it into a loaf and carefully place in the slow cooker on top of foil. Pour 2 cups of marinara over the top.
2 cups jarred marinara sauce
Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or until thermometer reads 165-170ºF.
Carefully lift meatloaf out of slow cooker with handles and place on platter to serve with extra marinara. Cut into slices and serve with pasta, if desired.

Notes

Gluten-Free Substitute for Bread Crumbs

To make a gluten-free recipe, swap out store bought or homemade gluten-free bread crumbs in an equal amount. I've also replaced them with an equal amount of GF quick oats with great results.

Nutrition