Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf lies in its simplicity and deliciousness. The slow cooker does all the work for you, giving you time to focus on other things. The addition of French onion soup mix brings a deep, savory flavor to the meatloaf that makes it stand out from the crowd. Plus, the cheese topping melts into a bubbly, golden finish, adding a creamy contrast to the meaty goodness. Whether you’re a fan of meatloaf or French onion soup, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 packet of French onion soup mix
1 large egg
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, French onion soup mix, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf and place it into the bottom of your Crockpot.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
About 30 minutes before serving, top the meatloaf with shredded cheese.
Continue cooking until the cheese has melted and is golden brown.
Once done, carefully remove the meatloaf from the Crockpot and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Cook Time: 4-5 hours on low

Variations

Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You may want to add a bit more seasoning to compensate for the lighter flavor.
Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese for a different flavor.
Add Veggies: If you like, add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire loaf in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen ground beef, but be sure to thaw it completely before preparing the meatloaf to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Simply place it in the Crockpot when you’re ready to cook.

Can I make this in the oven instead of the Crockpot?

Yes, if you prefer, you can bake this meatloaf in the oven at 350°F for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Can I add other seasonings to the meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor with additional herbs like thyme, parsley, or basil, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Is it necessary to top the meatloaf with cheese?

While optional, topping the meatloaf with cheese adds a delicious melty layer that enhances the flavor and texture. If you’re not a fan of cheese, you can skip this step.

Can I use a different kind of soup mix instead of French onion?

If you don’t have French onion soup mix, you could substitute it with onion soup or other seasoning mixes, though the flavor may differ slightly.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and make a larger meatloaf, but make sure it fits in your Crockpot. If your Crockpot is too small, consider cooking it in two separate batches.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf after it has cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before storing in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I cook this on high instead of low in the Crockpot?

Yes, you can cook the meatloaf on high for about 2-3 hours, but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

What sides go well with this meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or steamed green beans for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy days. The slow-cooking process ensures a juicy, tender meatloaf every time, while the French onion soup mix and cheese topping elevate the flavor to new heights. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or preparing it in advance, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the delicious comfort food without the hassle!