How to Make Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

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Have you ever had one of those cozy meals that instantly transports you back to a cherished family dinner around the kitchen table? For me, that meal is Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, reminiscent of Sunday dinners when the entire family gathers around, sharing stories and laughter over a hearty meal. My mom used to make this comforting dish, and just the aroma of it simmering away is enough to make anyone feel right at home.

I remember the first time I decided to replicate this dish for my husband. We were celebrating our first anniversary, and I wanted to bring a touch of nostalgia to our dinner table. As the sweet onions slowly caramelized in the crockpot, their irresistible aroma filled our home, and I could almost hear my mom’s gentle laughter echoing in the kitchen. It’s amazing how a simple dish can evoke such powerful memories.

The beauty of this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is in its simplicity and the way it transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary. The onions, cooked low and slow, become a rich and caramelized base that pairs perfectly with the juicy meatloaf. And let’s not forget the cheese! Whether you choose Swiss, Gruyere, or a creamy Provolone, it melts beautifully over the meat, adding that final touch of indulgence.

So, if you’re looking for a meal that’s not only delicious but also steeped in tradition and love, give this recipe a try. Trust me, once you’ve had a taste, it’ll become a regular feature in your home. Don’t forget to share your own stories and experiences in the comments below. I’d love to hear how this dish brings warmth and joy to your table as it does to mine!

How to Make Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

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Ingredients:

  • 3-4 large sweet onions, sliced
  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup Italian herb bread crumbs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 oz. package French onion soup mix
  • 1/2 cup cooking sherry
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 oz Swiss, Gruyere, or Provolone cheese
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Directions:

  1. Start by placing the sliced onions in the base of a 6-quart slow cooker. Scatter the sea salt, coarse black pepper, and granulated sugar evenly over the onions. Dot the top with the butter.
  2. Cover the slow cooker and cook the onions on LOW for about 12 hours, allowing them to caramelize slowly.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian herb bread crumbs, milk, egg, and French onion soup mix. Mix until everything is well combined, then form the mixture into a ball or oval shape.
  4. Add the cooking sherry and Worcestershire sauce over the caramelized onions in the slow cooker. Carefully place the meatloaf on top of the onions.
  5. Switch the slow cooker setting to HIGH and cook for an additional 3 hours, or until the meatloaf’s internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  6. Once cooked, layer the cheese over the meatloaf. Continue cooking for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. To serve, slice the meatloaf and pour the onions and sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and flavor.

Flexible Ingredient Options for Every Cook

If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t fret! You can easily swap ground turkey for beef to make it lighter. No Italian herb bread crumbs? Plain ones with a sprinkle of oregano and basil work just fine. And if you’re out of cooking sherry, a bit of beef broth can be used as a substitute.

Best Ways to Store Leftover French Onion Meatloaf

To keep your meatloaf fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’re planning to freeze it, slice the meatloaf first and wrap each piece individually before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can reheat single servings as needed.

The Best Accompaniments for Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

This hearty meatloaf pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a full, comforting meal. A side of crusty bread is ideal to mop up the delicious onion sauce. And for a perfect drink pairing, try a full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon.

Secrets to Perfecting Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

For the most flavorful results, allow the onions to fully caramelize in the slow cooker. This adds depth and sweetness to the dish. Don’t rush the process! Also, forming the meatloaf into a uniform shape ensures even cooking. Lastly, let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing, allowing the juices to redistribute.

How to Make French Onion Meatloaf Fit Any Time of Year

In the summer, add fresh tomatoes or sautéed bell peppers to the onion mix for a seasonal twist. During autumn, you might incorporate diced apples or a dash of cinnamon in the meat mixture to warm up the flavors. Winter calls for a hearty addition of mushrooms, while spring invites fresh herbs like parsley or dill as garnishes.

Making Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as poultry tends to cook faster than beef. You might also consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor profile when using these alternatives.

Do I need to caramelize the onions separately?

No separate caramelization is needed! The beauty of this recipe is that the slow cooker does all the work for you. By cooking the onions on a low setting for several hours, they naturally caramelize, drawing out their sweetness and enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

What type of bread crumbs should I use?

Italian herb bread crumbs are recommended for their seasoned flavor, which complements the meatloaf perfectly. However, if those aren’t available, you can use plain bread crumbs and add your own herbs, such as oregano, basil, or thyme, to achieve a similar taste.

Is there an alternative to the French onion soup mix?

If you’re unable to find a pre-packaged French onion soup mix, you can make a simple version at home using onion powder, garlic powder, and beef bouillon granules. Mix these with a pinch of parsley and celery seed for a homemade alternative that works just as well.

What kind of cheese melts best for this recipe?

Swiss, Gruyere, and Provolone are all excellent choices for this recipe because they melt beautifully and have a mild, creamy flavor that complements the savory meatloaf. Choose based on your personal preference or what you have available in your kitchen for the best results.

How can I tell when the meatloaf is done?

An instant-read thermometer is your best friend here. Insert it into the center of the meatloaf, and once it registers 160°F, your meatloaf is perfectly cooked. This ensures that your meatloaf is juicy and cooked through without any risk of overcooking.

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Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

This cozy Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is a perfect blend of savory beef, rich caramelized onions, and melted cheese, making it a comforting family favorite. Prepare it in your slow cooker for tender, flavorful results with minimal hands-on time.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 16 hours
Total Time 16 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, French
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • slow cooker

Ingredients
  

For the Onion Base:

  • 3-4 large sweet onions sliced
  • 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
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 ounce package French onion soup mix
  • 1/2 cup cooking sherry
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For Topping:

  • 4 ounces Swiss cheese can substitute Gruyere or Provolone
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by slicing your onions and layering them at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar, then dot with butter. Set the cooker on LOW and let it cook for 12 hours until the onions are caramelized.

For the Meatloaf:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, and French onion soup mix. Shape the mixture into a loaf or oval.
  • Pour the cooking sherry and Worcestershire sauce over the onions in the slow cooker. Gently place the formed meatloaf on top of the caramelized onions. Cook on HIGH for approximately 3 hours, or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
  • Add the cheese on top of the meatloaf and continue to cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
  • When ready to serve, slice the meatloaf and spoon the onions and sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a touch of elegance.
Keyword Crockpot, Onions

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