Crockpot Italian Mozzarella Meatloaf

🔸️Tender, flavorful meatloaf slow-cooked with Italian herbs, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella – a perfect comfort food dinner!

👉Ingredients:

🔥🔥For the Meatloaf:

🔹️1 pound ground beef

🔹️1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

🔹️¼ cup milk

🔹️1 large egg

🔹️½ tsp black pepper

🔹️½ tsp garlic powder

🔹️½ tsp dried oregano

🔹️½ tsp dried basil

🔹️½ cup marinara sauce

🔥🔥Toppings:

◾️1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

◾️½ cup sautéed onions

◾️½ cup extra marinara sauce

◾️Fresh chopped basil (for garnish)

👉Instructions:

✅️1. Sauté the Onions: Cook the onions in a little butter or oil until soft and golden. Set aside.

✅️2. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, seasonings, and marinara sauce. Mix until just combined.

✅️3. Shape & Cook: Form into a loaf shape and place in your crockpot. Spread sautéed onions over the top.

✅️4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

✅️5. Add Cheese & Sauce: About 15 minutes before it’s done, sprinkle mozzarella on top and spoon over the extra marinara. Cover again to melt the cheese.

✅️6. Rest & Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm!

👉5 Helpful Tips for Perfect Meatloaf:

↪️1. Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatloaf ingredients just until combined to avoid a dense texture.

↪️2. Use Lean Beef: 85–90% lean ground beef works best—flavorful but not greasy.

↪️3. Line the Crockpot: Use parchment or foil to make cleanup easier and to lift the loaf out smoothly.

↪️4. Try a Cheese Blend: Mix mozzarella with provolone or parmesan for even more flavor.

↪️5. Serve with Sides: Pair with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.