This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is a warm, flavorful dish that’s hard to resist. Imagine juicy meatloaf made extra special with savory French onion soup and topped with gooey melted Swiss cheese!
It cooks slowly, filling the house with a delicious smell that makes you want to dig in right away! I love serving it with some mashed potatoes or fresh bread to soak up all that tasty flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but the meatloaf may be less juicy.
French Onion Soup: Canned French onion soup saves time, but you can make your own for a fresher taste. Just simmer beef broth with caramelized onions and a splash of sherry or wine for depth of flavor.
Swiss Cheese: Swiss is perfect for melting but if it’s not your favorite, try provolone or even mozzarella! They both melt nicely and still add a great flavor.
Crushed French Fried Onions: You can substitute with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs if needed. These add a tasty crunch, which is why I love them in this recipe!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, using dried herbs works as well. Just reduce the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
How Can You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is key to enhancing flavors in this meatloaf. It sounds tricky, but it’s simple! Just remember, patience is a virtue.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter.
- Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the onions are golden brown and sweet. Turn down heat if they start to burn.
- Set aside some for topping on the meatloaf—this adds extra flavor!
Taking your time with this step gives you those rich, sweet flavors that make all the difference in your dish!
Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup French onion soup (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup crushed French fried onions (for topping and mixing)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 to 8 slices Swiss cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time in the crockpot. You’ll want to cook the meatloaf on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. In total, you can expect about 7-8 hours from start to finish, which includes the time for the flavors to meld together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add a little bit of oil, then toss in the thinly sliced onions. Sauté them until they are caramelized and soft, about 10-15 minutes. Don’t forget to set aside some of these delicious onions for topping later!
2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, 3/4 cup of the caramelized onions, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined—being careful not to overmix to keep the meatloaf tender and juicy.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Take the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf that fits inside your crockpot. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just make sure it’s compact!
4. Assemble in the Crockpot:
Place the meatloaf in the crockpot. Pour the French onion soup evenly over the top. This will keep the meatloaf moist and add lots of flavor!
5. Let it Cook:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The meatloaf is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Topping with Onions and Cheese:
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the lid, and place the reserved caramelized onion slices on top of the meatloaf. Then, lay the slices of Swiss cheese over the onions. Cover again and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and delightful!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheese is melted and bubbling, carefully take the meatloaf out of the crockpot using a spatula. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you like. Slice and serve warm with mashed potatoes or a simple green salad on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with that luscious melted Swiss cheese on top!
Can I Use Leaner Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can opt for ground turkey or chicken. Just keep in mind that these leaner meats may result in a drier meatloaf, so adding a bit more moisture, such as an extra tablespoon of milk, can help.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can gently reheat slices in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze meatloaf! Wrap individual servings tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe bags and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with This Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal!
