This Tender French Onion Meatloaf is a savory twist on the classic comfort food, featuring a rich blend of ground beef, French onion soup mix, and caramelized onions, all topped with gooey melted Swiss cheese. Made in the crockpot, this dish is effortless to prepare and results in a juicy, flavorful meatloaf that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete, satisfying meal.
📋 Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 packet French onion soup mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat . Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for about 10 minutes , stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef , breadcrumbs , milk , egg , French onion soup mix , salt , and pepper . Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf shape, compacting it gently to hold its form.
Step 3: Assemble in the Crockpot
- Place the shaped meatloaf in the bottom of a crockpot . Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Step 4: Cook the Meatloaf
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6–7 hours , or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (71°C) .
Step 5: Add the Swiss Cheese
- About 10 minutes before serving , sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Cover the crockpot again and let the cheese melt completely.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board and slice into portions.
- Serve hot alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the tender, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Success
- Onion Soup Mix Substitute: If you don’t have a packet of French onion soup mix, use 1 tablespoon onion powder + 1 teaspoon garlic powder + 1 teaspoon dried thyme as a homemade alternative.
- Cheese Variations: Swap Swiss cheese for mozzarella, cheddar, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
- Add-Ins: Mix in diced mushrooms, spinach, or grated carrots into the meatloaf for added nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze the uncooked meatloaf (without cheese) in an airtight container for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tender French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting, hands-off dish that’s bursting with flavor. The caramelized onions add a sweet, savory depth, while the French onion soup mix infuses the meatloaf with rich umami goodness. Topped with gooey melted Swiss cheese, it’s a decadent yet simple meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping dinner for the week, this recipe is a winner. Dive into this cheesy, onion-packed delight and savor every bite!
⏱ Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–7 hours (crockpot)
- Total Time: ~6–7 hours
🍽 Servings:
4–6 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~350 kcal per serving (varies based on side dishes and portion size)
