Description
This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf takes a comfort food classic to the next level! Packed with savory flavors of caramelized onions and topped with melty cheese, it’s cooked low and slow in a crockpot for a tender, juicy meatloaf that’s easy and delicious.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Meatloaf
- 1 1/2 lbs (700 g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 envelope (about 2 tbsp) French onion soup mix
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese (optional, for mixing into the meatloaf)
For the Topping
- 1 cup caramelized onions (see Notes for a quick recipe)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, French onion soup mix, milk, eggs, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- If desired, mix in 1/2 cup shredded cheese for extra gooeyness.
- Gently mix everything with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
2. Shape the Meatloaf
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a piece of parchment paper or directly into the crockpot. If your crockpot is large, you can use foil to create a sling for easier removal.
3. Cook in the Crockpot
- Place the meatloaf in the crockpot. If you’re worried about excess grease, you can elevate it slightly by placing it on a layer of thick-sliced onions or a rack.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
4. Add the Topping
- Once the meatloaf is cooked, spread the caramelized onions evenly on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the onions.
- Cover and let cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve
- Carefully remove the meatloaf from the crockpot using the parchment paper or foil sling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Notes
- Caramelized Onions: To make quick caramelized onions, sauté 2 sliced onions in 2 tbsp butter over medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and sweet.
- Make-Ahead: The meatloaf mixture can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.