If you’re looking for something hearty and comforting, this meatloaf is it! It’s juicy, tender, and full of flavor from fresh garlic, basil, and a hint of Parmesan. The slow cooker does all the magic, giving you a melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf without much fuss.

For a cozy meal, I love pairing it with mashed potatoes and some wilted spinach. Want to make it ahead? No problem—it reheats beautifully, and that rich tomato glaze makes every bite just as tasty the next day.

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Recipe Ingredients

• 600 g (1 lb 5 oz) ground beef
• 400 g (14 oz) ground pork
• 75 g (2¾ oz or ¾ cup) rolled oats
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 50 g (1¾ oz or ½ cup) finely grated Parmesan
• 1 carrot, coarsely grated
• 1 zucchini, coarsely grated
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1 handful fresh basil, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Tomato Glaze
• 700 g (1 lb 9 oz) jar tomato passata
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsp maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• To Serve
• Potato mash
• Wilted spinach

How To Make Slow Cooker Best Ever Meatloaf

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: Grease and line the slow cooker with baking paper to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, rolled oats, egg, grated Parmesan, grated carrot, grated zucchini, chopped garlic, and basil. Season generously with salt and pepper, then mix until well combined.
2. Shape and Place in Slow Cooker: Evenly press the meat mixture into the lined slow cooker, pressing down to create a uniform shape. Make sure it’s compact and even on top for thorough cooking.
3. Cook the Meatloaf: Set the slow cooker on low, cover, and cook for about 4 hours. Check that the meatloaf is firm and pulling away from the sides of the cooker to ensure it’s fully cooked.
4. Make the Tomato Glaze: While the meatloaf cooks, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the tomato passata, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes until it thickens.
5. Season the Glaze: Taste the glaze and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, allowing it to cool slightly before using.
6. Serve the Meatloaf: Carefully turn the meatloaf out of the slow cooker and onto a serving plate. Pour the tomato glaze over the top, letting it coat the meatloaf evenly. Serve hot with a side of creamy potato mash and wilted spinach.

Recipe Tips

• For a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground pork, keeping the ground beef to maintain juiciness and a full-bodied flavor in your meatloaf.
• To add more texture and flavor, consider mixing in diced bell peppers or onions along with the carrots and zucchini for a colorful, veggie-packed meatloaf.
• For an extra hint of richness, top the meatloaf with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato glaze, giving it a bit more depth and heat.
• If you want to prepare it in advance, shape and refrigerate the meatloaf mixture overnight, then cook it fresh in the slow cooker the next day for a stress-free meal.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

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