Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf because it’s the ultimate comfort food with a twist. The savory, caramelized onions blend perfectly with the juicy meatloaf, creating layers of rich, oniony goodness. The Swiss cheese melted on top adds a creamy finish that takes this dish over the top. Plus, the slow-cooking method in the crockpot ensures that the meatloaf comes out tender and full of flavor. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup milk

• 2 eggs

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons butter

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf: In a large mixing bowl, I combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. I mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

2. Shape the Meatloaf: I shape the meat mixture into a loaf and set it aside.

3. Caramelize the Onions: In a skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat. I add the thinly sliced onions and cook them for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and caramelized. The sweet, deep flavor of the caramelized onions will add a delicious depth to the meatloaf.

4. Assemble in the Crockpot: I place the meatloaf in the bottom of my crockpot, and then I spread the caramelized onions on top of the meatloaf. The onions will cook down and infuse the meat with their rich flavor while it slow-cooks.

5. Cook the Meatloaf: I cover the crockpot and cook the meatloaf on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatloaf is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

6. Melt the Swiss Cheese: About 15 minutes before the meatloaf is done, I add slices of Swiss cheese on top of the caramelized onions. I cover it again and let the cheese melt and become bubbly.

7. Serve: Once the cheese has melted and the meatloaf is cooked through, I remove it from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

• Total Time: 6-7 hours (slow cook) or 3-4 hours (high cook)

Variations

• Cheese: If I prefer a different cheese, I can use provolone or mozzarella instead of Swiss for a milder flavor.

• Add Veggies: I can add some finely chopped garlic, bell peppers, or even mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra flavor.

• Spices: To change the flavor profile, I can add a pinch of Italian seasoning or paprika to the meatloaf mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: I store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, I place slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, I can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. I recommend using a higher-fat content ground turkey (like 93% lean) to keep the meatloaf moist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the meatloaf and caramelize the onions ahead of time, then refrigerate both. On the day I want to cook it, I can assemble the crockpot and let it cook while I go about my day.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Yes, I can freeze the meatloaf after it has been cooked. To freeze, I slice the meatloaf and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, I thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it in the oven.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes, I can cook the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Add the cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.

What should I serve with this meatloaf?

I like serving this meatloaf with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Conclusion

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a perfect, hearty meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. The slow-cooked meatloaf becomes incredibly tender, with the caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese taking it to the next level. It’s a meal that’s easy to prepare, and it fills the house with mouth-watering aromas as it cooks. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying dinner, this dish is always a winner!

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