Introduction:
This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a savory and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, juicy meatloaf, and gooey Swiss cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or a family dinner, this slow-cooked recipe takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The crockpot ensures that the meatloaf is tender and flavorful, while the melted Swiss cheese adds a creamy, delicious topping. If you love French onion soup, you’ll adore this creative take on the classic meatloaf.
Ingredients:
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 ½ cups Swiss cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing onions)
1 cup French onion soup or beef broth (for the crockpot)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the onions: In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the caramelized onions to the mixture and stir until fully combined.
Shape the meatloaf: Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf and place it in the bottom of your crockpot.
Add broth: Pour the French onion soup or beef broth around the meatloaf in the crockpot. This will keep it moist while cooking.
Cook the meatloaf: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Add Swiss cheese: About 10 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the meatloaf. Cover the crockpot again to allow the cheese to melt.
Serve: Once the cheese has melted and the meatloaf is cooked, remove from the crockpot, slice, and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Description:
This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is a twist on the traditional meatloaf recipe, bringing in the delicious flavors of French onion soup. The meatloaf is tender and juicy, cooked slowly in the crockpot, while the Swiss cheese melts perfectly on top, creating a creamy, comforting layer. The caramelized onions give a deep, savory sweetness to the meatloaf, making each bite a deliciously rich experience.
Tips:
Sauté the onions: Caramelizing the onions before adding them to the meatloaf helps bring out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor.
Use lean ground beef: If you prefer a leaner meatloaf, opt for ground turkey or chicken. However, keep in mind that leaner meats might result in a slightly drier texture.
Do not over-mix the meat: When combining the ingredients for the meatloaf, mix just until combined to avoid a tough texture.
For extra flavor: You can add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the meat mixture for a tangy kick.
Variations:
Add veggies: You can stir in finely grated carrots or zucchini for added moisture and nutrition.
Cheese alternatives: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice, you could also use provolone or mozzarella for a different melt and flavor.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for some heat.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats if you need a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Correction:
If you’re short on time, you can pre-cook the meatloaf in the oven (350°F for 45 minutes) and then transfer it to the crockpot to melt the cheese, but cooking in the crockpot yields the best texture.
Enjoy:
Serve this flavorful meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying meal. The combination of juicy meat, rich caramelized onions, and melted cheese will make this dish a family favorite!