Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Here’s a Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese recipe that combines the savory flavors of French onion soup and the classic comfort of meatloaf, all made easy in your slow cooker. This dish is rich, tender, and topped with melty Swiss cheese—perfect for a cozy dinner.

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Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 to 6 hours
Total Time: 4 to 6 hours 15 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably plain or Italian-style)
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion (for extra flavor, you can sauté the onion before adding it to the mixture)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp ketchup (optional, for extra moisture)

For the Topping:

• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (or Gruyère, if you prefer a sharper taste)
• 1/4 cup French onion soup mix (from the packet)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, French onion soup mix, chopped onion, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup (if using). Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix everything together until well combined.

2. Form the Meatloaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape. It should fit comfortably inside your Crockpot (slow cooker). If it’s too big for your slow cooker, you can slightly adjust the shape.

Step 2: Cook the Meatloaf in the Crockpot

1. Prepare the Crockpot: Lightly grease the bottom of your Crockpot or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Place the Meatloaf in the Crockpot: Carefully transfer the shaped meatloaf into the slow cooker, placing it in the center. You can also place some sliced onions around the sides of the meatloaf to infuse more flavor.

3. Cook the Meatloaf: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your meatloaf and the specific slow cooker you are using. The meatloaf is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C), and the juices run clear.

   • If you prefer a slightly crispier texture on the outside, you can cook it on high for the first 2 hours and then switch it to low for the remaining time.

Step 3: Add the Swiss Cheese Topping

1. Prepare the Topping: Once the meatloaf is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160°F, it’s time to add the Swiss cheese topping. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded Swiss cheese, French onion soup mix, and melted butter.

2. Top the Meatloaf: Carefully spoon the cheese mixture over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly across the surface.

3. Melt the Cheese: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve the Meatloaf

1. Rest the Meatloaf: After cooking, let the meatloaf rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful.

2. Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve with your favorite sides. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

3. Garnish: Optional—sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

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Tips and Variations:

1. Make-Ahead: You can prep the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just shape it into a loaf and place it in the slow cooker to cook. This saves time on a busy day!

2. Adding Vegetables: Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

3. Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds in place of breadcrumbs for a low-carb version of this meatloaf.

4. Cheese Options: While Swiss cheese is a classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone. Gruyère, in particular, pairs beautifully with the French onion flavor.

5. Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in place of regular breadcrumbs.

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Storage and Leftovers:

• Store leftovers: Let the meatloaf cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the meatloaf before or after cooking. To freeze, wrap the meatloaf in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave them until heated through.

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Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 330 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 550 mg

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Conclusion

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese recipe takes the comfort food classic to the next level. The slow-cooked meatloaf is juicy and flavorful, and the gooey Swiss cheese topping adds a rich, indulgent element. Plus, the ease of using a Crockpot makes this a hands-off meal, perfect for busy days when you want a comforting dinner without all the fuss. Enjoy