Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a deliciously comforting and savory dish that combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of meatloaf. The slow cooking method ensures the meatloaf is tender and juicy, while the melted Swiss cheese on top adds a rich and creamy finish. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
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For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and ground pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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For the French Onion Soup Sauce:
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup (or homemade French onion soup)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing onions, optional)
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For the Topping:
- 4 slices Swiss cheese (or enough to cover the meatloaf)
- Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meatloaf:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined (do not overmix, or the meatloaf can become dense).
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the bottom of your crockpot.
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Prepare the French Onion Sauce:
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and become golden.
- Pour in the French onion soup, beef broth, and balsamic vinegar (if using). Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Pour the French onion sauce over the meatloaf in the crockpot.
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Cook the Meatloaf:
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
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Add the Swiss Cheese:
- About 15 minutes before serving, lay the slices of Swiss cheese over the top of the meatloaf. Cover and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove the crockpot from the heat. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.
- Slice the meatloaf and serve with the French onion sauce from the crockpot. This pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green vegetable.
Tips:
- Customize the Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or mozzarella could be substituted for Swiss cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Moisture Control: If you find that the meatloaf is too moist during cooking, you can drain some of the excess liquid before adding the cheese.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture the night before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook the next day.
Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights or special dinners. The rich onion flavor and melted cheese make this meatloaf a family favorite!