Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese
A slow-cooked twist on classic meatloaf, infused with the deep, caramelized flavor of French onion soup and crowned with melted Swiss cheese. Tender, savory, and minimal hands-on time.

🍽️ Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for moisture)
1 packet dry French onion soup mix (about 1 oz)
½ cup breadcrumbs (or quick oats for gluten-free)
2 large eggs
⅓ cup milk (or beef broth)
¼ cup ketchup or tomato paste
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For cooking & topping:

2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 cup beef broth
4–6 slices Swiss cheese
Optional: extra caramelized onions for garnish

👩🍳 Instructions

1. Prep slow cooker:

Line crockpot with a slow cooker liner or lightly grease.
Spread sliced onions evenly on the bottom. Pour beef broth over onions.

2. Make meatloaf mixture:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and parsley.
Mix gently with hands until just combined—do not overmix.
Shape into an oval loaf that fits your slow cooker.

3. Cook:

Place loaf on top of onions in slow cooker.
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3.5–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Add cheese & melt:

About 30 minutes before serving, lay Swiss cheese slices over the meatloaf.
Cover again until cheese melts (5–10 minutes on high if needed).

5. Serve:

Use two large spatulas to carefully lift meatloaf out (it will be tender!).
Serve topped with the tender onions and broth from the bottom of the pot (delicious over mashed potatoes!).

🥘 Optional Oven Finish

For a caramelized top, transfer meatloaf (after cheese melting) to a baking sheet and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.

🌿 Variations & Tips

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats and ensure soup mix is GF.
Creamier onion layer: Mix 1 can of condensed French onion soup with broth.
Add mushrooms: Sauté and add to onions for deeper flavor.
Make it a sandwich: Slice leftovers, reheat on crusty bread with extra cheese for an epic French onion meatloaf melt.

🍷 Pairing Ideas

Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles
Roasted green beans or a crisp garden salad
A glass of Malbec or a dark ale

📦 Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store slices with onions and broth in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Wrap slices tightly; freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat: In oven at 350°F (covered) or microwave with a splash of broth.

This comforting, flavor-packed meatloaf turns your slow cooker into a French onion paradise. Perfect for Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight feast. Bon appétit! 🧅🍖🧀