Here’s a Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese recipe that takes the classic meatloaf to the next level! The combination of savory French onion flavor and gooey melted Swiss cheese gives this dish a comforting, rich twist, and using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to prepare.

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Recipe Details

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high

• Total Time: 6–8 hours

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (or 80% lean for best texture)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix

• 1 cup bread crumbs

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup milk

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded (or 6–8 slices of Swiss cheese)

• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)

• 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced (for caramelizing)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for caramelizing onions)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, French onion soup mix, bread crumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.

2. Mix until well combined, but don’t overwork the meat to keep it tender.

2. Shape and Place in the Crockpot

1. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and carefully place it in the bottom of the crockpot. You can line the crockpot with parchment paper for easier cleanup, if desired.

2. Cover and set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours.

3. Caramelize the Onions

1. While the meatloaf is cooking, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the thinly sliced yellow onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 15–20 minutes, until the onions are soft and golden brown. Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of sugar to help with the caramelization, if desired.

3. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Add Cheese and Toppings

1. Once the meatloaf has finished cooking, carefully remove it from the crockpot.

2. Place the Swiss cheese on top of the meatloaf (either shredded or in slices) and cover the crockpot again to allow the cheese to melt for about 5–10 minutes.

3. Optionally, melt a little butter in a pan and toss the caramelized onions in the butter to give them a rich flavor, then spread the caramelized onions over the melted cheese.

5. Serve

1. Slice the meatloaf and serve with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

2. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips

• Ground Meat Variations: You can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a leaner option.

• Make It Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce to the meatloaf mixture for a subtle kick.

• Cheese Options: If you prefer a different cheese, you can use Gruyère, cheddar, or provolone.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before, shape it, and store it in the fridge. Then, just pop it in the crockpot the next day for easy cooking.

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese brings all the comforting flavors of French onion soup into a hearty, delicious meatloaf. Would you like suggestions for sides to go with this dish?