🧄 Slow Cooker Mediterranean Herb Parmesan Meatloaf
“I’m not kidding, my husband goes crazy for this dish!”
A flavorful, tender twist on a classic meatloaf—made heartier with Mediterranean herbs, Parmesan, and a slow cooker for fuss-free cooking. This version can be adapted to suit diabetic diets with simple swaps.
🍽️ Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork — lean beef preferred for diabetics)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use almond flour or oat bran for lower carb)
- 1/4 cup milk (use unsweetened almond or low-fat milk if needed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, optional (use no-sugar-added sauce for diabetics)
🍳 Instructions:
- Prepare the Mix:
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, Parmesan, breadcrumbs (or low-carb substitute), milk, onion, garlic, egg, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully combined—do not overmix. - Shape the Loaf:
Shape mixture into a loaf and place in the slow cooker (spray bottom with nonstick spray or use parchment). - Cook:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). - Optional Marinara Topping:
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, spread marinara over the top and let it finish with the lid slightly ajar. - Rest & Serve:
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan.
📝 Notes:
- For diabetics, opt for lean ground meat, almond flour, and no-added-sugar marinara.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or protein-packed lunch portions.
- Don’t skip resting—it helps the meatloaf set and slice cleanly.
💡 Tips:
- Overmixing leads to tough meatloaf—mix gently!
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without drying out.
- Line your slow cooker with parchment or foil for easy cleanup and to lift the loaf out.
🍴 Servings:
6 servings
Serving size: ~1-inch slice (~200–225g)
🔢 Nutritional Info (per serving):
Estimates based on lean beef, almond flour, no-sugar marinara
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 6–8g (lower with almond flour)
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g (depends on marinara)
- Net Carbs: ~5–7g
- Sodium: ~500mg
✅ Diabetic-Friendly Benefits:
- High in protein, which supports satiety and stable blood sugar.
- Low-carb option by using almond flour and sugar-free marinara.
- Healthy fats from Parmesan and lean meats.
- Rich in herbs and aromatics—adds flavor without extra salt or sugar.
❓ Q/A:
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! Mix and shape the loaf, then refrigerate up to 24 hours before slow cooking.
Q: Can I bake instead of slow cook?
A: Absolutely. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes in a loaf pan.
Q: What sides go well with this?
A: Roasted vegetables, cauliflower mash, or a fresh Greek salad are ideal low-carb sides.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months.