Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese takes classic meatloaf to a whole new level. I pack it with savory, rich flavors inspired by French onion soup—complete with sweet caramelized onions and gooey melted Swiss cheese on top. The slow cooker does all the work, keeping the meatloaf moist and tender while infusing it with deep, comforting flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe gives me the flavor of French onion soup in a hearty, satisfying meatloaf. It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just mix, shape, and let the slow cooker handle the rest. The Swiss cheese melts over the top for a gooey, golden finish, and I get a dish that’s cozy, flavorful, and always a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup milk

• 2 eggs

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 packet dry French onion soup mix

• 1½ cups caramelized onions (or sautéed until golden)

• 6–8 slices Swiss cheese

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, I combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and dry French onion soup mix. I mix until just combined—without overmixing—to keep the meatloaf tender.

2. I shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the slow cooker.

3. I top it with caramelized onions, spreading them evenly across the top.

4. I cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

5. In the last 10 minutes of cooking, I place slices of Swiss cheese over the top and cover again until the cheese is melted and gooey.

6. I let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6–8 people.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total Time: About 6.5–7.5 hours

Variations

Sometimes I use a beef-pork blend for extra flavor or swap in provolone cheese instead of Swiss. For more onion flavor, I stir in a bit of onion jam or extra Worcestershire. I’ve also added chopped mushrooms to the mix or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the onions while caramelizing.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat slices in the microwave or oven, and they stay moist thanks to the slow-cooked texture. It also freezes beautifully—I wrap individual portions for quick future meals.

FAQs

Can I use pre-caramelized onions?

Yes, I sometimes use store-bought or make them in advance. They add that essential sweetness and depth to the dish.

Do I need to sear the meatloaf first?

No searing is needed. The slow cooker keeps it tender and flavorful, and the melted cheese on top gives it plenty of texture.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Absolutely. I bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes, then add the cheese during the last 10 minutes.

How do I keep the meatloaf from falling apart?

I use enough binder (eggs and breadcrumbs) and avoid overmixing. Letting it rest before slicing also helps it hold its shape.

What can I serve this with?

I usually pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a simple salad. The flavors are rich, so simple sides work best.

Conclusion

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a comforting, flavor-packed twist on traditional meatloaf. I love how the slow cooking brings out the rich onion flavor and keeps the meat juicy and tender. With that melty Swiss on top, this is one dish I come back to again and again when I want something warm, filling, and completely satisfying.