Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf

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Description

This Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf is rich, juicy, and loaded with caramelized onion flavor. Imagine all the comforting flavors of classic French onion soup wrapped into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf! The slow cooker keeps it moist and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner with the family.

Ingredients For Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf

  • 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (80/20 blend preferred)

  • 1 packet French onion soup mix

  • 1 cup bread crumbs (plain or seasoned)

  • 2 large eggs

  • ½ cup milk

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening sauce)

Instructions

  1. Prep the onions:
    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden and soft (about 5–7 minutes). Set aside.

  2. Make the meatloaf mixture:
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soup mix, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and sautéed onions. Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix).

  3. Shape and cook:
    Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the slow cooker. Pour beef broth around (not on top) of the meatloaf.

  4. Cook low and slow:
    Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until fully cooked (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).

  5. Thicken the sauce (optional):
    Remove meatloaf and keep warm. Stir cornstarch slurry into the juices in the slow cooker, cover, and cook for 5–10 minutes until thickened into a savory onion gravy.

  6. Serve:
    Slice the meatloaf and drizzle with onion gravy. Sprinkle with extra cheese if desired.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, use a mix of beef and pork.

  • You can line the slow cooker with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.

  • Swiss or Gruyère cheese gives it a more “French onion soup” flavor.

  • Leftovers taste even better the next day!

Tips

  • Avoid overmixing the meat; this keeps the loaf tender.

  • Add a few slices of onion on top before cooking for a decorative look.

  • Serve with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a full French-inspired meal.

  • If you want a crispy top, broil the meatloaf for 3–5 minutes after slow cooking.

Servings

🍽️ Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours
Total Time: ~7 hours 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values)

  • Calories: 365

  • Protein: 27 g

  • Fat: 23 g

  • Carbohydrates: 10 g

  • Fiber: 1 g

  • Sodium: 710 mg

  • Sugar: 2 g

Benefits

✅ High in protein and rich in iron
✅ Comforting, family-friendly dinner
✅ Slow cooker method = minimal effort, maximum flavor
✅ Great for meal prep — reheats beautifully

Q&A

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well—just add an extra tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of broth to prevent dryness.

Q2: How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the onion soup mix is gluten-free.

Q3: Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Slice the meatloaf, wrap in foil or airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently with a bit of broth.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to the mix?
Yes—grated carrots, mushrooms, or spinach can add nutrition and moisture.

Q5: What’s the best cheese to use?
Swiss or Gruyère for authenticity, mozzarella for a milder creamy flavor.

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