Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐩𝐨𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐡 𝐎𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐥𝐨𝐚𝐟 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐬𝐞

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Juicy, savory, and packed with caramelized onion flavor—this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is topped with melty Swiss cheese and slow-cooked to tender perfection. It’s classic comfort food with a French twist, perfect for cozy dinners and easy meal prep.

  • Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef (85/15)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
  • 1/4 cup milk or beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 cup caramelized onions (see below)
  • For the Caramelized Onions:
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • For Topping:
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (for crockpot)
  • 4–6 slices Swiss cheese
  • Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, heat butter and olive oil. Add onions and salt. Cook, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes until deep golden. Stir in balsamic vinegar if using. Let cool slightly.
  2. Mix the meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine beef, egg, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), milk or broth, Worcestershire, seasonings, and 1/2 cup caramelized onions. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork.
  3. Shape and slow cook: Form loaf and place in crockpot. Pour beef broth around the sides. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  4. Top with cheese: Lay Swiss cheese slices over the top. Cover for 5–10 minutes to melt, or broil for a bubbly, golden finish.
  5. Garnish and serve: Top with remaining caramelized onions and fresh herbs. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot!

Notes

  • Use parchment or a foil sling to easily lift the loaf from the crockpot.
  • Don’t skip caramelizing the onions—it’s key for the flavor.
  • Broil the cheese at the end if you want a golden, bubbly top.
  • Use Gruyère or provolone instead of Swiss, if desired.
  • Make ahead: mix and shape meatloaf the night before and refrigerate overnight.
  • Author: Selena Trump
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: french onion meatloaf, crockpot meatloaf, comfort food, slow cooker dinner, cheesy meatloaf