Description
1 ½ lbs ground beef
1 cup French onion soup (canned or homemade)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1 large onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon olive oil
Directions:
In a pan over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil, then sauté the sliced onions until caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the crockpot.
Pour the French onion soup over the meatloaf, then top with the caramelized onions.
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
In the last 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese on top and cover until melted.
Slice and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours (low) / 3 hours (high) | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) / 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, prepare your ingredients. Thinly slice one large onion. In a large skillet, melt one tablespoon of butter with one teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ lbs of ground beef, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, one egg, one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender. Form the mixture into a loaf shape that fits your slow cooker.
Place the meatloaf into the crockpot. Pour one cup of French onion soup evenly over the top. Spoon the caramelized onions over the soup. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. In the final 15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle one cup of shredded Swiss cheese over the meatloaf. Re-cover the pot and let the cheese melt completely. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and savory meatloaf pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the delicious onion and cheese sauce. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles are classic choices. For a lighter option, try steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp garden salad. The leftovers make an excellent sandwich the next day on a crusty roll.
How-to Summary
Caramelize onions in butter and oil. Mix beef with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Form into a loaf in the crockpot. Top with soup and caramelized onions. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add Swiss cheese in the last 15 minutes. Rest, slice, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, Gruyère is a fantastic substitute for Swiss, offering a similar nutty flavor. Provolone or mozzarella will also melt well for a milder taste.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? Crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even panko breadcrumbs are excellent alternatives. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats or breadcrumbs.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare the meat mixture, shape the loaf, and caramelize the onions up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and cook when ready.
Why is my meatloaf falling apart? This is often due to insufficient binder. Ensure you are using the full ½ cup of breadcrumbs and one egg. Letting the cooked meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing is also crucial for it to set.
Can I cook this in the oven instead? Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) in a loaf pan for about 1 hour, adding the cheese for the last 10 minutes of baking. The texture will be firmer than the slow-cooker version.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overmixing the meat, as this can make the loaf dense and tough. Do not skip caramelizing the onions; this step builds a deep, sweet flavor base. Ensure you use a lean (85/15) ground beef to prevent excessive grease. Do not add the cheese too early, or it will become greasy and separate. Finally, always allow the meatloaf to rest after cooking for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
This French Onion Soup Meatloaf transforms a comforting classic into an effortless slow-cooker masterpiece. The combination of savory soup, sweet caramelized onions, and melted Swiss cheese creates a deeply flavorful and moist dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep and the slow cooker doing the work, you get a delicious, home-cooked meal with ease. Give this recipe a try for a satisfying dinner that delivers on both taste and convenience.
