Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Nothing says cozy comfort quite like a slow-cooked meatloaf filled with rich flavors. This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a true crowd-pleaser, combining sweet caramelized onions, juicy ground beef, and a gooey blanket of Swiss cheese.

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It’s an easy, hands-off recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a warm, family-friendly dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

• Effortless cooking – Your crockpot does most of the work.
  
• Bold flavors – Sweet onions, savory beef, and melty cheese.
  
• Family-friendly – A hearty main dish that everyone can enjoy.
  
• Perfect for busy nights – Prep in minutes, then set it and forget it.
  

Ingredients for Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this cozy dish to life:

• 3–4 large sweet onions, sliced thin
  
• 4 tbsp salted butter
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• 1 tsp sea salt
  
• 1 tsp coarse black pepper
  
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
  
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken as an alternative)
  
• 1 cup Italian herb breadcrumbs
  
• 1 cup milk
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 1 oz French onion soup mix
  
• ½ cup beef broth (substitute for sherry, keeping it family-friendly)
  
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  
• 4 oz Swiss, Gruyère, or provolone cheese slices
  
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions

• Place onions in the bottom of a 6-quart crockpot.
  
• Season with salt, pepper, and sugar, then dot with butter.
  
• Cook on LOW for 9 hours until golden and tender.
  (Shortcut: caramelize in a skillet in 15–20 minutes if you’re short on time.)
  

2. Mix the Meatloaf

• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and French onion soup mix.
  
• Form into a firm loaf shape.
  

3. Slow Cook to Perfection

• Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the onions.
  
• Gently place the meatloaf on top.
  
• Cook on HIGH for 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  

4. Melt the Cheese

• Layer Swiss or Gruyère slices on top of the meatloaf.
  
• Cover and cook for another 20–30 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted.
  

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the meatloaf and serve with caramelized onions and juices from the crockpot.
  
• Garnish with fresh thyme for a beautiful finish.
  

Practical Tips for Crockpot Meatloaf

• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
  
• Line the bottom of the crockpot with onions to prevent sticking.
  
• Swap Swiss for provolone if you prefer a milder cheese.
  

Bonus Ideas to Try

• Chicken Version: Swap ground beef for ground chicken for a lighter option.
  
• Veggie Boost: Add finely diced mushrooms or zucchini into the meat mix.
  
• Freezer Friendly: Prepare the loaf in advance and freeze, then cook directly in the crockpot.
  

This recipe is comfort food made easy, and once you try it, it may just become a new family favorite. Save this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf to your Pinterest board today so you’ll always have a delicious dinner idea ready!