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Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, until they turn golden brown.
- Add 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce and 1/4 cup beef broth for extra flavor. Cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf:
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, caramelized onions, eggs, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the crockpot.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Pour the remaining beef broth (3/4 cup) and dried thyme over the meatloaf.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until fully cooked (internal temp of 160°F).
4. Add the Cheesy Topping:
- Sprinkle shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the meatloaf during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
- Cover until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
- Carefully lift the meatloaf out of the crockpot and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Pro Tips for the Best French Onion Meatloaf:
✅ Use quality beef – A little fat (80/20 ratio) keeps the meatloaf juicy.
✅ Don’t skip the caramelized onions – They add the signature French onion flavor!
✅ Cheese matters! – Gruyère gives that perfect nutty, melty goodness, but Swiss or provolone work too.
✅ Make it ahead – You can prep the meatloaf a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to cook.
What to Serve with French Onion Meatloaf:
🥔 Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A must-have side to soak up the sauce.
🥖 Buttery Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up extra cheesy topping.
🥦 Steamed or Roasted Veggies – A light and fresh balance to the hearty meatloaf.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly and thaw before cooking. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf slices for easy meal prep!
Final Thoughts
Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is everything you love about classic meatloaf but elevated with the rich, deep flavors of caramelized onions and melty cheese. It’s easy, comforting, and absolutely delicious—perfect for busy families or a cozy weekend dinner.
Try it once, and it’ll become a new favorite in your recipe rotation! 🍽️✨
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