Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience! If you’re looking for a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds, then this Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf is just what you need. Bursting with flavor from sweet caramelized onions and melty cheese, this recipe is designed to be easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special family gatherings.
A Personal Story Behind My Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf Journey
Growing up, my family always enjoyed hearty meals that brought us together around the dinner table. My grandmother used to make a delightful meatloaf with a twist, incorporating the rich flavors of French onion soup. This dish has become a cherished family recipe, and with the convenience of a slow cooker, I’ve adapted it for today’s busy lifestyles. Now, I’m excited to share it with you!
What Makes This Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of its unique combination of flavors and textures. The slow cooking process allows the onions to caramelize beautifully, adding a sweet depth to the dish. Coupled with the savory meatloaf and gooey cheese on top, each bite is a comforting explosion of taste. Plus, using the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making dinner time effortless!
The Full Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients
- 3-4 large sweet onions, sliced
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup Italian herb bread crumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 oz. package French onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup cooking sherry (No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with beef broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 oz Swiss, Gruyere, or Provolone cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by slicing the onions and spreading them evenly in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle the onions with sea salt, coarse black pepper, and granulated sugar. For added flavor, place the salted butter and olive oil on top of the onions. Tip: Cooking on LOW for 12 hours helps the onions caramelize beautifully.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian herb bread crumbs, milk, egg, and French onion soup mix. Mix until just combined, then shape the mixture into a ball or oval. Tip: Avoid over-mixing to ensure a tender meatloaf.
- Pour the cooking sherry (or beef broth) and Worcestershire sauce over the onions in the slow cooker. Carefully place the shaped meatloaf on top of the cooked onions. Cook on HIGH for 3 hours or until the meat registers 160°F. Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- In the last 20-30 minutes of cooking, place the cheese over the top of the meatloaf and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, slice the meatloaf and serve it with the caramelized onions and sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme for that extra touch of flavor. Tip: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious onion sauce. For variations, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a different cheese, try cheddar or mozzarella for a fun twist!
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf
Can I freeze the meatloaf? Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
What can I use instead of cooking sherry? No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with beef broth for a similar depth of flavor.
How do I know when the meatloaf is cooked? The internal temperature should reach 160°F. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through.
Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf
Equipment
- 6-quart slow cooker Ideal size for this recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup Italian herb bread crumbs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 unit egg
- 1 ounce French onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 ounces Swiss, Gruyere, or Provolone cheese
- 1 sprig Fresh thyme
Instructions
- Slice the onions and spread them in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and sugar over the onions. Place butter and olive oil on top of the onions. Cook on LOW for 12 hours.
- In a bowl, mix the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, egg, and onion soup mix. Shape the mixture into a ball or oval.
- Pour cooking sherry and Worcestershire sauce over the onions in the slow cooker. Place the meatloaf on top of the cooked onions. Cook on HIGH for 3 hours or until the meat registers 160°F.
- Place cheese over the top of the meatloaf and continue cooking for 20-30 minutes longer or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve the meatloaf sliced with onions and sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme.