Name: Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488377H7M24S
Total time: PT-488377H7M24S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds ground beef; 1 cup French onion soup; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; Salt and pepper to taste; Additional Swiss cheese for topping

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This Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf is a rich, savory twist on the classic comfort food. It blends juicy ground beef with the deep flavor of French onion soup and creamy melted Swiss cheese. Letting it cook low and slow means tender results every time, with minimal effort.

Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together bold flavors and easy preparation. The French onion soup adds incredible depth to the meat, while the slow cooker does all the hard work for me. I don’t even have to turn on the oven. It’s also an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when I want a comforting meal with hardly any cleanup. Plus, the cheesy topping is a delicious bonus.

Ingredients

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

1 1/2 pounds ground beef
1 cup French onion soup
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Swiss cheese for topping

Directions

I start by combining the ground beef, French onion soup, breadcrumbs, Swiss cheese, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Once mixed thoroughly, I shape the mixture into a loaf.
Then I transfer the meatloaf to the slow cooker.
I cook it on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
About 30 minutes before it’s done, I add extra Swiss cheese on top and let it melt to perfection.
I serve it hot, straight from the slow cooker.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. It takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and the cook time is either 3 to 4 hours on high or 6 to 8 hours on low.

Variations

I sometimes swap Swiss cheese with mozzarella or provolone for a different flavor.
If I want a leaner version, I use ground turkey instead of beef.
For added crunch, I’ve mixed in some caramelized onions or even crispy fried onions.
A dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a deeper umami boost.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftovers, I place the meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm individual slices in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes. For larger portions, I reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through—about 20 minutes.
It also freezes well: I wrap slices in foil and store them in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

FAQs

What type of French onion soup should I use?

I usually use canned French onion soup for convenience, but dry soup mix reconstituted with water also works well.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare and shape the loaf the night before, then refrigerate it until I’m ready to slow cook it the next day.

Is it necessary to use Swiss cheese?

Not at all. I like Swiss for its mild tanginess, but cheddar, mozzarella, or even Gruyère are great substitutes.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes, I’ve baked it at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-55 minutes. I still add cheese toward the end to melt on top.

What sides go well with this meatloaf?

I usually serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. A fresh salad also makes a nice contrast to the richness.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf has become one of my favorite no-fuss meals. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and couldn’t be easier to make. Whether I’m feeding the family or just craving something warm and satisfying, it hits the spot every time.