Savory French Onion Meatloaf with Melty Swiss Cheese (Slow Cooker Recipe)

by

Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep time: 20 minutes

  • Cook time: 5–6 hours on LOW or 2.5–3 hours on HIGH

  • Total time: 5–6 hours (mostly hands-off)

  • Servings: 6–8

  • Difficulty: Easy

 Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

  • 900 g (2 lbs) ground beef (80/20 or lean with some fat)

  • 1 cup bread crumbs (panko or regular)

  • 2 large eggs

  • ½ cup whole milk

  • 1 packet (about 30 g) dry French onion soup mix

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese, divided

  • Optional: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For topping:

  • 1–2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • ½ cup beef broth

  • 6–8 slices Swiss cheese

 Instructions

1. Caramelize the onions (optional but recommended)

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter and the sliced onions.

  2. Sauté slowly for 10–15 minutes until golden brown and softened. Stir occasionally.

  3. Set aside for topping the meatloaf later.

2. Prepare the meatloaf mixture

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, eggs, milk, soup mix, Worcestershire, garlic powder, pepper, and ½ cup of shredded Swiss.

  2. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined — don’t overmix to keep the loaf tender.

  3. Shape into a loaf (oval or round) that will fit in your slow cooker.

3. Assemble in the slow cooker

  1. Lightly grease or line the slow cooker with parchment paper or foil.

  2. Place the meatloaf in the center.

  3. Top with caramelized onions and pour the beef broth around the loaf (not directly on top).

  4. Cover and cook:

    • LOW: 5–6 hours

    • HIGH: 2.5–3 hours

  5. Internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

4. Add melty cheese topping

  1. About 10–15 minutes before serving, lay Swiss cheese slices over the top of the meatloaf.

  2. Cover and let it melt — you can also broil briefly in the oven for a browned, bubbly finish.

5. Serve and enjoy

  • Let the meatloaf rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.

  • Serve with the onions and juices spooned over the top.

Suggested Sides

  • Mashed potatoes (classic pairing)

  • Buttered green beans

  • Roasted carrots

  • Crusty bread (to soak up the broth!)

 Tips & Variations

  • For a lighter version: Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork.

  • Want extra onion flavor? Add a splash of onion gravy or make a quick jus with beef broth, a little cornstarch, and the drippings.

  • Add mushrooms: Mix in sautéed mushrooms for an even richer umami profile.

  • Cheese options: Gruyère, provolone, or mozzarella also work beautifully.

 Nutrition Estimate (per slice, approx. 8 servings)

  • Calories: ~390 kcal

  • Protein: 28 g

  • Fat: 25 g

  • Carbohydrates: 10 g

  • Sodium: ~580 mg

  • Fiber: ~1 g

Note: Nutrition may vary based on cheese and meat used.

 Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Reheat: In oven at 160°C (325°F) covered, or microwave individual slices.

 Final Thoughts

This French Onion Meatloaf with Swiss Cheese brings the deep, sweet flavor of onions and the indulgent creaminess of melted cheese to the familiar comfort of meatloaf — all with the convenience of slow cooking. It’s hearty, flavorful, and practically cooks itself.

Leave a Comment