Introduction

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf brings together rich caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese for a comforting, flavorful meal. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s an easy recipe that fills your home with irresistible aromas. Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

A thick square slice of meatloaf sits in the middle of a white plate, coated in a dark brown glossy gravy that pools around the base. The meatloaf has a rich brown, juicy texture with visible ground meat and herbs. On top, a creamy layer of melted white cheese stretches down the sides in thick, smooth strings. Over the cheese, soft caramelized onion rings, golden and translucent, add a shiny coat. A small sprig of green thyme lies on top, adding a fresh touch. The plate rests on a white marbled surface, and the photo is taken very close-up to show sauce details and cheese melt. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp salted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp sea salt
½ tsp coarse black pepper
1 tsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp cooking sherry (optional)
1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20)
½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
¼ cup whole milk
1 large egg
1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
6-8 slices Swiss, Gruyère, or provolone cheese
Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with olive oil. Add the sliced onions, sea salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir occasionally for 30-40 minutes until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized.
Step 2: Deglaze the skillet with cooking sherry if using. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian-style breadcrumbs, milk, egg, French onion soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix gently to incorporate.
Step 4: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on parchment paper or foil inside the crockpot.
Step 5: Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Carefully drain any excess liquid from the crockpot before adding the cheese topping.
Step 7: Spread the remaining caramelized onions evenly over the meatloaf. Lay the cheese slices on top, cover, and let melt for 5-10 minutes.
Step 8: (Optional) For a golden cheese topping, transfer the meatloaf to a broiler-safe dish and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use a mix of Swiss and Gruyère cheese for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Substitute cooking sherry with a splash of dry white wine or skip it entirely if preferred.
For a leaner option, use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork.
Adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the meat mixture enhances the savory taste.
Keep the caramelized onions moist by stirring occasionally during caramelization to prevent burning.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Meatloaf also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square, thick layered dish on a white plate with a white marbled texture background, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is a rich, browned ground meat with a slightly coarse texture, and the top layer is creamy melted cheese that stretches down the sides in gooey strands. Sitting on the cheese are several caramelized onion rings that are golden brown and glossy, with a small sprig of green herb placed on top for garnish. The dish rests in a shallow pool of dark brown sauce around the base, adding a moist shine to the presentation. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf in the oven instead of a crockpot?

Yes, you can bake the meatloaf at 350°F (175°C) for about 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Add the cheese topping during the last 10 minutes of baking.

What can I serve with French Onion Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple mixed green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.