This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is super easy and bursting with flavor! Packed with savory onion goodness and topped with gooey melted Swiss cheese, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
I love how the slow cooker does all the work while I can go about my day. Plus, when the cheese melts—oh boy! You’ll want to have a second helping without guilt. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too, but the texture might be a bit different.
Onions: Yellow onions are the best for caramelizing due to their natural sweetness. You can swap in sweet onions or even use shallots for a milder flavor, though you’ll need to adjust cooking time as they caramelize faster.
Swiss Cheese: This dish is all about that melty Swiss cheese! If you’re out, try Gruyère for a similar flavor or mozzarella for something milder and more stretchy if you prefer that.
Breadcrumbs: I use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Oats can work in a pinch too!
Balsamic Vinegar: This adds a nice depth to the dish. If you’re out, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar will do the trick without missing a beat.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions can seem tricky, but it’s really about patience. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with medium heat. Add the olive oil and sliced onions to the skillet.
- Cook slowly, stirring every few minutes. This helps release the natural sugars. If they start browning too quickly, lower the heat!
- After about 25-30 minutes, they should be a lovely golden brown. Add minced garlic for the last couple minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning.
- Finish by stirring in balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for another couple of minutes to let those flavors blend.
By giving the onions time to cook down, you’ll unlock a sweet flavor that enhances the entire meatloaf!
Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley, plus extra for garnish
- 8 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 35-40 minutes of prep time, followed by cooking in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on LOW or 3-4 hours on HIGH. If you include an extra time to melt the cheese, plan for about 15-20 minutes. So, total up about 7-8 hours for a delicious homemade dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn deep golden brown and caramelized—this should take about 25-30 minutes. In the last 2 minutes, add the minced garlic, and then stir in the balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes to soften them. Then, add the ground beef, eggs, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and parsley. Mix everything gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Incorporate Onions:
Now, reserve half of the caramelized onions to use as a topping later. Gently fold the remaining caramelized onions into the meat mixture until fully combined. This will pack the meatloaf with flavor!
4. Shape and Place in Crockpot:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that fits comfortably inside your greased crockpot. Place it carefully into the crockpot insert.
5. Cook Meatloaf:
Pour the beef broth around the loaf to keep it moist during cooking. Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Add Toppings and Melt Cheese:
Once the meatloaf is cooked, carefully remove the lid. Spread the reserved caramelized onions on top of the meatloaf, followed by the Swiss cheese slices. Cover the crockpot again and cook on HIGH for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Optional Sauce Thickening:
If you like your sauce a little thicker, carefully remove the meatloaf to a serving platter. Stir cornstarch into the crockpot juices and cook uncovered on HIGH for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Drizzle the sauce over the meatloaf just before serving.
8. Serve:
Garnish your meatloaf with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it warm alongside mashed potatoes or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy every bite of your delicious, cheesy French onion meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Just keep in mind that turkey tends to be leaner, so you might want to add a little extra moisture, like an additional tablespoon of olive oil or some extra milk, to keep it juicy.
How Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet on low heat to prevent it from drying out. You can also slice it and use it in sandwiches!
Can I Freeze This Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating it in the oven or microwave.
What Can I Use Instead of Swiss Cheese?
If Swiss cheese isn’t available, you can use Gruyère for a similar flavor or mozzarella for a milder, stretchy option. Cheddar also works if you prefer a sharper taste!
