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I am not usually a fan of meatloaf, but this Easy Italian Meatloaf recipe changed my mind. It is packed with flavor, has a nice Italian twist to it, and the fact that it’s so easy to make is just an added bonus. I’m all about convenience, especially when it comes to cooking!
This Italian Meatloaf recipe allows me to enjoy the deliciously rich taste of a home-cooked meal without having to spend hours in the kitchen — that’s a win in my book! As a cook who likes to try new things, I also appreciate that this recipe is easily adaptable. It’s the perfect meal for using up my zucchinis!
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Easy Italian Meatloaf
This recipe has no muss and fuss and lets you savor meatloaf with all of the flavors of traditional Italian herbs and spices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Entrées
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground sirloin
- 2 large eggs
- 1 zucchini, grated and excess liquid squeezed out
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus extra, for garnish
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- 1/2 cup jarred marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Line the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker with aluminum foil. Coat the foil with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground sirloin, eggs, zucchini, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Carefully transfer the mixture into the slow cooker and form it into an oblong-shaped loaf, setting it on top of the aluminum foil.
- Cover and cook for 6 hours on Low or for 3 hours on High. When you have 15 minutes left, turn off the heat and unplug the slow cooker. Remove the cover and spread the marinara sauce over the top of the meatloaf. Sprinkle the cheese on top of the sauce and replace the cover. Allow the meatloaf to sit for 5 to 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Lift the foil to remove the meatloaf. Transfer the loaf to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley. Slice and serve.
This Italian Meatloaf is distinct in a few key ways. It’s flavored with traditional Italian herbs and spices, and you can definitely taste the difference! The heartiness is given a depth of flavor, and if not because of this recipe, I seriously would’ve never known that meatloaf could be so good. I kid you not. You will want to make this dish again and again.
Let’s talk about what makes this Italian-style meatloaf truly special. Unlike traditional American meatloaf that often relies heavily on ketchup and breadcrumbs, this Mediterranean masterpiece brings an aromatic symphony of fresh herbs and spices to the table. The combination of dried oregano, fresh parsley, and minced garlic creates a fragrance that will have your kitchen smelling like an authentic Italian trattoria!
The flavor profile is completely transformed from the sometimes bland, heavy versions we grew up with. Where classic meatloaf can be dense and one-dimensional, this Italian version dances on your palate with layers of savory complexity. The Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty dimension that’s absolutely game-changing, while the zucchini (genius addition!) keeps everything moist without making it greasy.
The Perfect Topping Alternative
And can we talk about that marinara topping? Forget the sticky-sweet ketchup glaze! The bright, slightly acidic tomato sauce perfectly balances the richness of the meat, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s simply chef’s kiss. When that melted mozzarella creates that irresistible cheese pull with each slice? Pure magic!
What truly sets this recipe apart from other ethnic variations like Greek meatloaf (with its feta and mint) or Southern meatloaf (with its bell peppers and cajun spices) is how the Italian herbs don’t just sit on top of the meat flavor – they transform it completely. The oregano and garlic become one with the ground sirloin in a way that feels like they were always meant to be together.
The slow cooker method is another brilliant twist. While oven-baked meatloaves can sometimes dry out along the edges, this gentle cooking method ensures every bite remains tender and juicy. It’s honestly foolproof! And that aluminum foil trick? Game-changer for easy cleanup!
Versatility That Keeps On Giving
I love how flavorful and versatile it is, yet it only requires a few ingredients. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when I don’t have much time to cook. My family never complains, either, because it’s always a good time for something Italian. Plus, it’s also great for meal prep! I always make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for another day. I’m all for dump ‘n’ go recipes that make my life easier, and this Italian Meatloaf is definitely one of them.
Pro tip: Try slicing leftover meatloaf thinly for the most amazing sandwiches! Layer it between crusty Italian bread with some fresh arugula and a smear of pesto – lunchtime nirvana achieved! Or cube it up and toss into a pasta dish for a heartier take on a weeknight spaghetti dinner. The possibilities are endless!
I’ve tried countless meatloaf variations over the years – from classic diner-style to fancy gourmet versions with exotic ingredients – but this Italian slow cooker version has earned its place as my go-to recipe. It strikes that perfect balance between comforting familiarity and exciting flavor that makes you wonder why all meatloaves aren’t made this way.
What do you think of this recipe? Have you tried it? Or is there a different meatloaf recipe you would recommend? Let us know about it in the comments below.
