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Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preparing your workspace. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and milk. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix these ingredients together until they're well incorporated.
Next, add in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, fresh parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Continue mixing until every ingredient is thoroughly combined. The texture should be slightly sticky but well blended, creating a cohesive meat mixture.
Once your mixture is prepared, shape it gently into a loaf form. This can be done by rolling it back and forth on your clean countertop or simply shaping it in the bowl and transferring it directly into a moderately-sized slow cooker.
If desired, you may want to enhance the flavor and moisture of your meatloaf by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce over the top of the shaped loaf. This adds an extra depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory meat.
Now, cover the slow cooker with its lid, ensuring that the meatloaf is enclosed to cook evenly. Depending on your schedule, you have the option to set your slow cooker to low heat for six to eight hours or high heat for three to four hours. The key is to make sure the meatloaf is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the meatloaf is done cooking, carefully remove it from the slow cooker. Be gentle, as it may be tender and could break apart easily. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure the juices remain sealed in and every slice is moist.
For added garnish, you can sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top of the meatloaf for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
Tips and Conclusion
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