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For the French Onion Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup (or homemade, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (for a little extra sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
How to Make Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, French onion soup mix, bread crumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix everything together until well combined. You want the ingredients to be evenly distributed, but be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the meatloaf tender.
Once combined, season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor and richness, you can mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, but this step is optional.
Step 2: Form the Meatloaf
Transfer the meat mixture into the Crockpot, shaping it into a loaf shape. Press the edges and top to smooth it out so the meatloaf cooks evenly. Make sure the loaf isn’t too tightly packed, as you want the juices to circulate around it during cooking.
Step 3: Prepare the French Onion Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the French onion soup, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and garlic powder (if using). Pour this mixture over the top of the meatloaf, allowing it to coat the meat and form a delicious sauce that will enhance the flavor as it cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Meatloaf
Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to low heat. Let the meatloaf cook for about 6-7 hours, or until the meat is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). The long cooking time ensures the meatloaf becomes incredibly tender, while the French onion soup mixture infuses it with flavor.
If you’re in a hurry, you can set the Crockpot to high heat and cook for 3-4 hours, but the low setting really brings out the best flavor and tenderness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatloaf is done, remove it from the Crockpot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure each slice is as juicy and tender as possible.
Serve your Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The French onion sauce will complement the meatloaf perfectly, and you can drizzle any extra sauce over the top for even more flavor.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf
- Customize the Meat: While ground beef is the classic choice, you can mix in other meats like ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile. A beef-pork combination gives the meatloaf a richer taste.
- Don’t Overmix: When mixing the meatloaf, be gentle. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense and dry. Just mix until the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Use Fresh French Onion Soup: If you have homemade French onion soup on hand, feel free to use it in place of the canned version for an extra boost of flavor.
- Top with Cheese: For an even richer taste, consider topping the meatloaf with some shredded cheese in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Swiss cheese or Gruyère would be an excellent pairing for the French onion flavors.
- Leftovers: Leftover meatloaf can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served cold on a salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: A creamy side of mashed potatoes makes the perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavorful sauce from the meatloaf.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful side dish.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread would be perfect for dipping into the French onion sauce.
Conclusion
The Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is an easy, flavorful twist on a beloved classic. With minimal effort, you can create a hearty meal that’s packed with rich, savory flavor and tender meat. Cooking the meatloaf in the Crockpot ensures it stays juicy and flavorful, while the French onion soup mix adds a depth of taste that’s truly irresistible.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at dinner or simply want to enjoy a cozy meal with the family, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. So, grab your Crockpot, and let the slow cooking magic happen!
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