Best Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. Combining the rich taste of French onion soup with a juicy meatloaf, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender, savory meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. The melted Swiss cheese on top adds a creamy finish, making each bite a mouthwatering delight. Serve this meatloaf with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete and comforting dinner.

Table of Contents

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf
• Recipe Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
• 1 envelope (1 oz) French onion soup mix
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

For the Sauce

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup

Topping

• 6-8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, eggs, black pepper, and dried thyme. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
2. Shape the Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the bottom of your crockpot. If needed, line the bottom of the crockpot with parchment paper for easier removal.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the condensed French onion soup, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Pour the mixture evenly over the meatloaf.
4. Cook the Meatloaf: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Add the Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, place the Swiss cheese slices on top of the meatloaf. Cover and let the cheese melt.
6. Serve: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf

• Use Ground Beef with Some Fat: For a moist meatloaf, use ground beef with a bit of fat, such as 80/20.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the meat can result in a dense meatloaf. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Line the Crockpot: Lining the crockpot with parchment paper can make it easier to remove the meatloaf without it falling apart.

Recipe Variations

• French Onion Turkey Meatloaf: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Cheddar Topping: Replace the Swiss cheese with sharp cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Mushroom Addition: Add 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an extra savory note.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this meatloaf in the oven instead of a crockpot?
A: Yes! You can bake the meatloaf in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 to 1 1/4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze meatloaf?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• With Mashed Potatoes: Serve the meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
• With Green Beans: Pair with steamed or roasted green beans for a balanced meal.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread to mop up the extra sauce.

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a delicious and comforting twist on traditional meatloaf. The rich flavors of French onion soup, combined with the tenderness of slow-cooked beef and the creamy Swiss cheese topping, make this dish truly irresistible. It’s perfect for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm, savory flavors of this mouthwatering meatloaf!