Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

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Description

This comforting crockpot French onion meatloaf combines the hearty richness of classic meatloaf with the savory sweetness of caramelized onions and the elegance of melted Swiss cheese. Slow-cooked to perfection, the meatloaf stays tender and juicy while soaking up deep flavors from French onion seasoning. Topped with gooey Swiss cheese, it becomes an irresistible family-style dinner that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Ingredients For Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

  • 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)

  • 1 packet French onion soup mix (or 2 tbsp homemade seasoning blend)

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

  • ½ cup milk

  • 1 medium onion, caramelized

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp dried thyme

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 6–8 slices Swiss cheese

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare caramelized onion: In a skillet, cook sliced onion over medium-low heat with a little butter until golden and sweet (about 15–20 minutes). Set aside.

  2. Mix meatloaf base: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, caramelized onion, garlic, Worcestershire, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

  3. Shape loaf: Form into a loaf shape and place it into your crockpot.

  4. Add broth: Pour beef broth around (not on top) of the meatloaf.

  5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours until cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).

  6. Add cheese topping: About 10 minutes before serving, layer Swiss cheese slices over the meatloaf, cover again, and let melt.

  7. Serve: Carefully lift meatloaf, slice, garnish with parsley, and serve with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Notes

  • If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs.

  • For extra richness, use half ground beef and half ground pork.

  • You can caramelize extra onions and serve them on top with the melted cheese for a true French onion feel.

  • Leftovers reheat beautifully and make great sandwiches.

Tips

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture or the meatloaf will be dense.

  • Line the crockpot with parchment paper “slings” for easy removal.

  • A splash of red wine in the broth adds gourmet depth.

  • For a slightly crisp top, transfer cooked meatloaf to a baking sheet, top with cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes.

Servings

  • Makes 6–8 servings

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 32g

  • Fat: 24g

  • Carbs: 15g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugars: 3g

  • Sodium: 720mg

Health Benefits

  • Protein-rich: Supports muscle repair and keeps you full.

  • Calcium from Swiss cheese: Supports bone health.

  • Onions: Contain antioxidants and compounds that support heart health.

  • Slow cooking: Preserves tenderness while reducing the need for excess fat.

Q & A

Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the meatloaf the night before, store in the fridge, and place in the crockpot in the morning.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Absolutely—wrap cooked slices tightly and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Q: Can I make this without the soup mix?
A: Yes, use a blend of onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, beef bouillon, and a pinch of celery seed for a homemade alternative.

Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, egg noodles, or even French bread to soak up the broth.

Q: Can I make this healthier?
A: Use lean ground turkey or chicken, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and reduced-fat Swiss cheese.

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