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Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf and Melted Swiss Cheese

This rich and flavorful dish combines slow-cooked caramelized onions with tender meatloaf topped with melted Swiss cheese, perfect for a hands-off dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 hours
Total Time 10 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the caramelized onions

  • 3-4 large large sweet onions, sliced Use sweet onions for best flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

For the meatloaf

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup Italian herb bread crumbs Fresh bread crumbs are recommended.
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 ounce French onion soup mix
  • 1/2 cup cooking sherry
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For serving

  • 4 ounces Swiss Gruyère or provolone cheese Use Swiss for the classic flavor.
  • Fresh thyme sprigs For garnish.

Instructions
 

Caramelize Onions

  • Sprinkle the sliced onions with salt, pepper, and sugar. Dot with butter and drizzle with the olive oil.
  • Cook on LOW for 9 hours until they are caramelized.

Prepare and Cook Meatloaf

  • Pour cooking sherry and Worcestershire sauce over the caramelized onions in the cooker.
  • Place the meatloaf mixture on top of the onions.
  • Set the slow cooker to HIGH and cook for 3 hours, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
  • Cook for an additional 20-30 minutes on HIGH, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

  • Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve sliced, ensuring each piece has a spoonful of the sweet onions on top.

Notes

Cool the meatloaf to room temperature before storing. Place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, use a covered dish with a splash of stock or water at low heat.
Keyword Caramelized Onions, Crockpot Meatloaf, French Onion, Slow Cooker, Swiss Cheese