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Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf

This Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf is an absolute game-changer. It's unbelievably easy, bursting with savory flavor, and the slow cooker does all the hard work for you!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds 1 1/2 pounds ground beef You can use 80/20 for a good balance of flavor and moisture.
  • 1 cup 1 cup French onion soup This is our secret weapon for that incredible savory depth.
  • 1 cup 1 cup breadcrumbs Panko or regular breadcrumbs work great to bind everything together.
  • 0.5 cup 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese For that classic French onion flavor and melty goodness inside.
  • 0.25 cup 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Adds a lovely hint of freshness and color.
  • 1 large 1 large egg To help bind all the ingredients together.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste, of course!
  • Additional Swiss cheese for topping Because who can resist extra gooey cheese?

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Large bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Method
 

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, grab your ground beef. Add the French onion soup, breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Swiss cheese, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and pepper.
  2. Step 2: Use your hands (the best tools for meatloaf!) to gently combine everything. Don't overmix, or you might end up with a tough meatloaf. Just mix until everything is well incorporated.
  3. Step 3: Form the mixture into a loaf shape. You can do this right in the slow cooker insert if you like, or shape it on a plate and then transfer it.
  4. Step 4: Carefully place the meatloaf into your slow cooker. Cover it up and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The exact time will depend on your slow cooker, so keep an eye on it.
  5. Step 5: About 30 minutes before you're ready to serve, sprinkle that extra Swiss cheese generously over the top of the meatloaf. Let it melt into a glorious, gooey blanket.
  6. Step 6: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, your Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf is ready to go! Slice it up and serve it hot.

Notes

Breadcrumbs: If you don't have breadcrumbs, you can crush up some crackers or even use rolled oats in a pinch.
Cheese: Gruyere cheese is a fantastic substitute for Swiss if you have it on hand. Cheddar also works if that's what you have in your fridge.
Add-ins: Want to jazz it up? Try adding some finely chopped mushrooms or onions to the meat mixture. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add another layer of flavor.
Glaze: For an extra touch, you could whip up a simple glaze of ketchup and a little brown sugar to brush on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Or, for something a bit different, check out this classic meatloaf with a tangy glaze for inspiration!