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Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 14 reviews
  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 6 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese combines the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with a juicy, tender meatloaf slow-cooked to perfection. Topped with melted Swiss cheese and caramelized onions, this comforting dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty family dinner.


Ingredients

Meatloaf

  • 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

French Onion Topping

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 8 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced (to melt on top)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the thinly sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 25-30 minutes. Set aside.
  2. Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly but gently to combine all ingredients without overworking the meat.
  3. Assemble meatloaf in crockpot: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the crockpot. Spoon half of the caramelized onions evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
  4. Slow cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and is cooked through.
  5. Add cheese and remaining onions: About 30 minutes before serving, carefully top the meatloaf with sliced Swiss cheese and the remaining caramelized onions. Cover and allow the cheese to melt and flavors to meld.
  6. Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the meatloaf from the crockpot, slice, and serve hot, spooning some of the onion and cheese topping over each slice.

Notes

  • For best flavor, caramelize onions slowly to develop sweetness without burning.
  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for different flavors.
  • If you don't have a crockpot, the meatloaf can be baked in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour.
  • The Worcestershire sauce adds umami depth, but you can omit it for a milder taste.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.