Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese
Description:
This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is pure comfort food at its finest — a tender, juicy meatloaf infused with caramelized onions and savory French onion soup mix, then slow-cooked to perfection. The slow cooker locks in all that moisture, while a final topping of gooey melted Swiss cheese adds a luscious finish. It’s a cozy, hands-off meal that delivers restaurant-level flavor with minimal effort — perfect for weeknights or Sunday dinners.
Ingredients:
For the Meatloaf:
-
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
-
1 packet (1 oz) dry French onion soup mix
-
1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
-
2 large eggs, beaten
-
½ cup milk
-
1 medium onion, finely diced (optional for extra flavor)
-
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
-
1 tsp garlic powder
-
½ tsp black pepper
-
½ tsp salt
For the Topping:
-
2 medium onions, sliced thin
-
2 tbsp butter or olive oil
-
½ cup beef broth
-
4–6 slices Swiss cheese
Optional Garnish:
-
Chopped parsley or fresh thyme for serving
Instructions:
-
Caramelize the Onions:
-
In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly for 10–12 minutes until golden brown and soft. Add beef broth to deglaze the pan and set aside.
-
-
Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
-
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, dry French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, pepper, and salt. Mix gently until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep it tender).
-
-
Shape the Loaf:
-
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the bottom of your slow cooker (lightly grease or line with parchment for easy cleanup).
-
-
Add Onions:
-
Spoon the caramelized onions and broth mixture over the top of the loaf.
-
-
Cook:
-
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until fully cooked (internal temperature 160°F / 70°C).
-
-
Add Cheese:
-
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, place slices of Swiss cheese on top of the loaf, cover, and let it melt.
-
-
Serve:
-
Carefully remove the meatloaf, slice, and serve with extra onions spooned over the top.
-
Notes:
-
Use lean beef if you want less grease, but 80/20 keeps it more flavorful.
-
To prevent sogginess, use parchment paper or a small rack under the meatloaf.
-
Add a dash of balsamic vinegar to the onions for a deeper caramelized flavor.
-
You can substitute provolone or mozzarella for Swiss cheese if preferred.
Tips:
-
Mix lightly: Overmixing toughens the meat.
-
Rest before slicing: Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
-
Double batch: Great for meal prep — leftovers make delicious sandwiches.
-
Optional glaze: Mix 2 tbsp ketchup + 1 tsp Worcestershire + 1 tsp Dijon mustard for a tangy top layer before adding onions.
Servings:
Serves 6–8 people
Nutritional Information (per serving):
-
Calories: 410
-
Protein: 30 g
-
Fat: 25 g
-
Carbohydrates: 12 g
-
Fiber: 1 g
-
Sugar: 3 g
-
Sodium: 720 mg
(Values are approximate and may vary with specific ingredients.)
Health Benefits:
-
High Protein: Supports muscle repair and fullness.
-
Calcium from Cheese: Strengthens bones and teeth.
-
Onions: Provide antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds.
-
Slow Cooking: Retains nutrients and produces tender, easy-to-digest meat.
Q&A Section:
Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, but reduce cooking time slightly to prevent drying.
Q2: Can I prepare it the night before?
Absolutely. Assemble the loaf in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day as directed.
Q3: How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your French onion soup mix is gluten-free.
Q4: Can I bake it instead of slow cooking?
Yes — bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes, then top with Swiss cheese and broil until bubbly.
Q5: What sides go best with it?
Try mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or green beans for a hearty, balanced meal.