Why Make This Recipe
Hearty Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. It combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with a tender meatloaf, all cooked together in a crockpot. This dish is not only flavorful but also very easy to prepare. You can set it and forget it, letting the crockpot do most of the work while you enjoy your day. The melting Swiss cheese and caramelized onions add richness and depth, making it a satisfying meal for your family and friends.
How to Make Hearty Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) ground beef
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
- 1 egg
- 0.5 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 0.25 cup (60 ml) milk
- 2 tbsps butter
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28 g) French onion soup mix
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Directions:
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Mixing: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, French onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Be gentle to keep the meat’s texture nice.
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Shaping and Positioning: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf. Place it in the center of the crockpot, making sure it’s even for even cooking.
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Caramelizing Onions: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion slices and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn a golden-brown color. This will make them sweet and flavorful.
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Layering Flavors: Once the onions are ready, spread them evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This will add a delicious aroma and flavor.
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Liquid and Seasoning: Pour the beef broth around the meatloaf. Sprinkle thyme on top if you want an herbal touch.
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Slow Cooking: Cover the crockpot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Make sure the meatloaf reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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Cheese Finale: In the last cooking period, add the Swiss cheese slices on top of the meatloaf. Let them melt for that creamy goodness.
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Serving: Carefully take the meatloaf out of the crockpot and place it on a serving platter. Don’t forget the caramelized onions and some of the cooking liquid for a tasty gravy!
How to Serve Hearty Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf
Serve this meatloaf with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple salad. The rich gravy made from the cooking liquid and onions is perfect for drizzling over your meatloaf and sides, adding an extra layer of flavor.
How to Store Hearty Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or place it in the oven until warmed through. If you want, you can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
Tips to Make Hearty Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf
- Use a good quality ground beef for the best flavor.
- Feel free to add other seasonings or herbs that you enjoy.
- Make sure not to over-mix the meat mixture; this keeps the loaf tender.
- If you prefer a crustier top, you can briefly broil the meatloaf after cooking.
Variation
You can add diced mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra flavor and veggies. If you like spiciness, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey or chicken for this meatloaf?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef if you prefer a lighter option.
2. Can I make this meatloaf without a crockpot?
Absolutely! You can cook it in a regular oven by placing it in a loaf pan and baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until fully cooked.
3. What can I do with leftover meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be sliced for sandwiches, crumbled over salads, or added to pasta dishes for a quick meal.
Hearty Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting meatloaf infused with the flavors of French onion soup, cooked to perfection in a crockpot, featuring delicious Swiss cheese and caramelized onions.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680 g) ground beef
- 6 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
- 1 egg
- 0.5 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 0.25 cup (60 ml) milk
- 2 tbsps butter
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28 g) French onion soup mix
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, French onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper, being gentle to maintain texture.
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the center of the crockpot.
- Melt butter in a pan over medium heat and add onion slices, cooking until golden-brown.
- Spread caramelized onions evenly over the meatloaf.
- Pour beef broth around the meatloaf and sprinkle thyme on top if desired.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C).
- In the last cooking period, add Swiss cheese slices on top and allow to melt.
- Carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot and serve with caramelized onions and cooking liquid for gravy.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg