Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

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Introduction

This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf—unless your grandma happens to be a French chef. Combining the bold, sweet richness of caramelized onions, a juicy blend of ground beef and pork, and the irresistible melt of Swiss cheese, this French Onion Meatloaf takes comfort food to a gourmet level. Using the crockpot ensures it stays moist and flavorful, while finishing with a broiled layer of bubbling cheese gives it that classic French onion soup flair.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 lb ground pork (or use all beef)
• 1 1/2 cups caramelized onions (see below)
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to speed up caramelization)
• 1/4 cup beef broth or water (to deglaze)

Topping:

• 6–8 slices Swiss cheese
• Fresh thyme or parsley (optional garnish)

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large skillet, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, for about 25–30 minutes until onions are golden brown and deeply caramelized.
3. Add a splash of beef broth or water to deglaze the pan and scrape up the flavorful bits.
4. Let cool slightly before adding to the meat mixture.

Tip: This can be done a day ahead and stored in the fridge.

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Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk; let sit 5 minutes.
2. Add the ground meats, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Fold in the caramelized onions (reserve 1/4 cup for topping, if desired).
4. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork it.

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Step 3: Shape & Cook in Crockpot

1. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf shape.
2. Line the bottom of your crockpot with a piece of parchment paper or foil for easy lifting.
3. Place the meatloaf inside. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

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Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese

1. Once the meatloaf is cooked, carefully transfer it (using the foil or parchment) to a baking sheet.
2. Layer the top with Swiss cheese slices.
3. Broil in the oven for 2–4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch closely!

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Step 5: Serve

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
2. Spoon some of the reserved caramelized onions on top.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley or thyme, and serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a green salad.

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👩‍🍳 Method Summary

• Cooking Method: Slow-cooked in a crockpot, finished under the broiler
• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes onion caramelizing)
• Cook Time: 6–7 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
• Servings: 6–8

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🔁 Optional Add-Ons & Variations

• Add a layer of cheese in the middle of the meatloaf for an oozy surprise.
• Mix in 1/4 cup grated Gruyère for even more French flavor.
• Replace beef broth with red wine when deglazing onions for a richer taste.

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