Crockpot Italian Meatloaf is the answer to busy weeknights. Ground beef, sausage, & cheese, 15 minutes prep, then set it and forget it! Easy & delicious!
7.5-ozjar sun-dried tomatoes in oildrained and chopped
¾cupItalian breadcrumbs
¾cupParmesan cheesegrated
1egg
¼cupfresh basilchopped
1teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonblack pepper
½large onionsliced
½-3/4cupyour favorite marinara
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a medium skillet. Place chopped onion in oil and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until lightly browned. In the last minute, add garlic.
In a large bowl, combine onion-garlic mixture with beef, sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, bread crumbs, cheese, egg and seasonings.
Mix with hands and shape into a loaf that will fit into your crockpot.
Slice a large onion with enough slices to cover bottom of crockpot. Lay in bottom then pour ½ cup water on top.
Cut a piece of parchment paper larger than the meatloaf and place underneath. It should be large enough to aid in lifting the meatloaf out of the crockpot when it is done.
Lower meatloaf into crockpot. Spread with marinara.
Cover and cook on low for four hours.
When ready to serve, lift out of crockpot holding the ends of the parchment sling. Tilt slightly over sink and drain any liquid that has accumulated underneath.
Place on platter and let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Frequently Asked Question on Crockpot Meatloaf
Why does my meatloaf fall apart?
Usually the loaf will fall apart if there is not enough binding agents, such as eggs and bread crumbs, to hold the meat together. It could also be that it wasn't cool enough when cut. Allow it a resting period of about 10-15 minutes before slicing.
What is the benefit of cooking a meatloaf in the crockpot versus the oven?
I found this method to be the most foolproof way of ensuring the meatloaf comes out tender. The closed environment with the circulation of moisture prevents the meatloaf from drying out.
Can I cook this meatloaf in the air fryer?
Absolutely! This method is probably my second favorite. Using half the recipe works the best. Just preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees and lay a piece of parchment paper on the bottom of the basket. Set meatloaf into the fryer and cook for 25 minutes. Let sit for 10 minutes prior to slicing.Pro-Tip: Adding sausage to the beef mixture ensures that the meat to fat ratio is perfect making this one of the moistest and most tender meatloaves you've ever had.