Description
This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese with a savory, moist beef meatloaf. Slow-cooked in a crockpot for tender perfection, it’s a comforting meal perfect for a hearty family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Caramelized Onions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
Additional
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, sour cream, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the bottom of your crockpot, ensuring an even base for cooking.
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Caramelized Onions: Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the top of the meatloaf in the crockpot to infuse flavor during cooking.
- Add Broth: Pour the beef broth around the meatloaf inside the crockpot to keep the meat moist while cooking.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 6 to 7 hours, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Add Cheese: About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the meatloaf.
- Melt Cheese: Cover the crockpot again and continue cooking so the cheese melts thoroughly and blends with the meatloaf.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and ensures easier slicing for serving.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh onions for caramelization as they provide the sweetest flavor.
- Make sure to check the meatloaf’s internal temperature to guarantee it’s fully cooked.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the beef broth quantity slightly or thicken with a slurry after cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to maintain moisture.
