This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is all about comfort! It’s juicy and packed with flavor thanks to the savory onions and delicious melted Swiss cheese on top.
Honestly, who can say no to cheese? Every bite feels like a warm hug. I like to serve it with mashed potatoes for a full cozy meal—perfect for those busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onions: Yellow onions are best for their sweetness when caramelized. If you’re in a pinch, you could use white onions, but they can be sharper in flavor.
Ground Meats: I love the mix of ground beef and pork for a juicy texture. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can work, but make sure to add some moisture, like extra milk or some oil.
Breadcrumbs: You can use regular or panko breadcrumbs here. If gluten-free is a must, swap with ground oats or a gluten-free breadcrumb option.
Swiss Cheese: I love the creaminess of Swiss, but you can switch it up with provolone or mozzarella for a different flavor. Just note that the texture may change slightly.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions unlocks their natural sweetness and adds depth to a dish. Follow these easy steps for success!
- Start with a skillet on medium heat; melt the butter.
- Add your sliced onions and sprinkle in the sugar to help with caramelization.
- Stir occasionally for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown. Patience is key here!
- Add Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor, cooking for an additional couple of minutes.
Keep an eye on the heat; if the onions start to burn, lower it right away. This technique elevates your meatloaf way beyond ordinary!
Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley, plus extra for garnish
For the Topping:
- 6 ounces Swiss cheese, sliced
Time Estimate:
This delicious meatloaf takes about 25 minutes to prepare, and then it needs to cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your crockpot. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want a hearty meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle the sugar on top. Cook while stirring occasionally until the onions are golden brown and caramelized, which takes about 20-25 minutes. To add a boost of flavor, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and let it cook for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, ketchup, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Mix everything gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as that can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Form the Meatloaf:
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf that will fit comfortably in your crockpot. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just make sure it’s compact.
4. Assemble in the Crockpot:
Place half of the caramelized onions in the bottom of the crockpot. Put the formed meatloaf on top, then spread the rest of the caramelized onions evenly over the meatloaf. This layering will add all that lovely onion flavor throughout!
5. Cook:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatloaf is done when it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
6. Add Cheese:
About 15 minutes before serving, place the slices of Swiss cheese on top of the meatloaf. Cover the crockpot again and let it cook until the cheese is completely melted.
7. Serve:
Once ready, carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot and slice it up. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of your Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef and Pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef and pork for a leaner option. Just be cautious to add a bit more moisture, like an extra splash of milk or some oil, to keep it juicy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatloaf in a microwave-safe dish and warm it gently, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist if needed.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes! You can freeze the meatloaf before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking. If freezing after cooking, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat!
What Should I Serve with This Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier side, consider serving it with buttered noodles to soak up any extra sauce!
