Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor, you’ll absolutely love this Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf. It’s the perfect blend of ground turkey and beef, creating a juicy, tender texture that melts in your mouth.
The addition of marinara sauce not only keeps it moist but also infuses it with rich Italian flavors. Plus, cooking it slowly means every bite is bursting with taste, making it a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
I appreciate how easy it’s to prepare; just mix the ingredients, shape the loaf, and let the slow cooker do the hard work.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad or some garlic bread, making it a complete, delicious dinner.
Ingredients of Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf
When it comes to making a delicious Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf, having the right ingredients is key. You want to gather everything you’ll need to create that mouthwatering flavor and tender texture. Trust me, once you get your hands on these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family or friends.
And yes, I mean it when I say this meatloaf will steal the show at dinner!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups soft breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (plus 2 tablespoons for topping)
- 1 whole egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped onions
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Now, let’s talk a bit about these ingredients. The combination of ground turkey and beef is a game changer. It gives you the best of both worlds: the lean protein from the turkey and the savory richness from the beef.
And those soft breadcrumbs? They’re like the magic glue that holds everything together while keeping it nice and moist. Don’t skip on the marinara sauce either; it not only adds flavor but also keeps your meatloaf from drying out.
You might be tempted to use whatever sauce you have lying around, but this is one of those times when quality counts. So, take a moment to pick a marinara that you truly enjoy.
And while we’re at it, feel free to get creative with the seasonings if you have a favorite blend—after all, cooking should be fun!
How to Make Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf
Alright, let’s plunge into making this Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf that’s bound to become a family favorite. First things first, grab a large mixing bowl because you’ll want to combine the good stuff. Start with 1 pound of ground turkey and 1 pound of ground beef—this dynamic duo gives you the best of both worlds: lean and juicy.
Then, toss in 2 cups of soft breadcrumbs, which act like a sponge, soaking up all those flavors and keeping your meatloaf moist. Now, add in 1/2 cup of marinara sauce, and don’t skimp on it; this is where the flavor party begins. Crack in a whole egg for binding, and sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of chopped onions, 1 1/4 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of garlic salt, 1/2 teaspoon of crushed dried Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, and a dash of 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder.
Mix it all up with your hands—yes, it’s messy, but it’s the best way to get everything well combined. Just imagine the aroma as you blend those ingredients together; it’s like a warm hug from your kitchen.
Once everything is nicely mixed, shape it into a loaf, making sure it’s compact enough to hold its shape. Now, here’s a little trick: grab a 30-inch long piece of foil and fold it in half lengthwise. Place this in the bottom of your slow cooker, letting the ends hang over the edge. This will be your little lifter later.
Place the meatloaf on top of the foil, and don’t forget to spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over the top—it’s like giving your meatloaf a stylish hat.
Cover the slow cooker securely and set it to LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you have. The slow cooking will allow all those flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a tender, juicy meatloaf that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds.
When it’s done, carefully use the foil ends to lift your masterpiece out of the slow cooker and onto a serving platter. It’s a little bit like surgery, but trust me, it’s worth it. You’ll be left with a meatloaf that not only looks impressive but also tastes absolutely divine. Enjoy the accolades—because you deserve them!
Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf recipe is a hit, there’s plenty of room for creativity with substitutions and variations.
You can easily swap out ground turkey for ground chicken or even lean pork to change up the flavor. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, I recommend using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats instead.
For a twist, toss in some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added moisture and texture. You could also experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or parmesan, mixed into the meatloaf.
Finally, feel free to adjust the seasonings; adding crushed red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick! These variations can personalize your meatloaf while keeping it delicious.
What to Serve with Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf
To truly elevate your Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf experience, consider pairing it with some delicious sides that complement its rich flavors.
I love serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, as they soak up the savory juices wonderfully. A crisp side salad adds a revitalizing contrast, balancing the meatloaf’s hearty texture.
Roasted vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, bring a lovely sweetness that enhances the overall meal. For a classic touch, you can’t go wrong with garlic bread, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Finally, a side of marinara for dipping can take it to the next level. With these sides, your dinner will be both satisfying and memorable. Enjoy the meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing your Slow Cooked Italian Meatloaf, I recommend using fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh herbs elevate the dish, so if you can, opt for them instead of dried.
Also, don’t hesitate to customize the meatloaf by adding your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to boost nutrition. If you like a bit of heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes.
For an extra moist loaf, you can mix in a little grated Parmesan cheese or swap out some breadcrumbs for cooked quinoa.
Finally, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing—this helps retain the juices. Enjoy your delicious creation!