French Onion Meatloaf (Slow Cooker)

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🥘 French Onion Meatloaf (Slow Cooker)

📖 Description

This French Onion Meatloaf combines classic comfort food with the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup. Cooked low and slow in a crockpot, the meatloaf stays juicy and tender while soaking up caramelized onion flavors. Topped with melted cheese, it’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

🍽️ Ingredients for French Onion Meatloaf (Slow Cooker)

  • 2 lbs ground beef (or half beef, half pork for more flavor)

  • 1 packet dry onion soup mix

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • ½ cup milk

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp dried thyme (optional, adds French onion flair)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt

  • For the Sauce & Topping:

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese (for topping)

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

🥄 Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions

    • In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly until golden brown (about 15–20 minutes).

  2. Mix the Meatloaf

    • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, dry onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Parmesan, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

  3. Shape & Place in Slow Cooker

    • Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the center of your slow cooker.

  4. Add Sauce & Onions

    • Pour condensed French onion soup and Worcestershire sauce over the loaf. Spread caramelized onions on top.

  5. Cook Low & Slow

    • Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).

  6. Finish with Cheese

    • About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella or Gruyère over the meatloaf, cover again until melted.

  7. Serve

    • Slice and serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley.

📝 Notes

  • Using half beef and half pork makes the meatloaf extra juicy.

  • For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine when caramelizing onions.

  • Line the bottom of your slow cooker with foil or parchment for easier removal.

  • Gruyère cheese gives it that authentic French onion soup taste.

💡 Tips

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture, or the loaf may become dense.

  • If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the shaped loaf for 30 minutes before cooking.

  • Leftovers make fantastic French onion meatloaf sandwiches.

🍴 Servings

  • Serves: 6–8 people

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 6–7 hours (low)

  • Total Time: 6.5–7.5 hours

🔥 Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. for 8 servings)

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 15g

  • Fat: 27g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 4g

  • Sodium: 960mg

🌿 Benefits

  • Protein-rich for muscle repair and energy.

  • Slow cooking preserves moisture and enhances flavor.

  • Onions provide antioxidants and compounds that support heart health.

  • A wholesome comfort food that’s both filling and satisfying.

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this without a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes in a loaf pan, covered with foil. Remove foil, add cheese, and bake 10 more minutes.

Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Mix and shape the meatloaf a day ahead, refrigerate, and cook the next day.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes. Slice, wrap individually, and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Gruyère is most authentic, but mozzarella, Swiss, or provolone also melt beautifully.

Q: Can I make this healthier?
A: Swap half the beef for ground turkey or chicken, and use whole wheat breadcrumbs.

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