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Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Ingredients

  • 2 lbsground beef: This is the base of the meatloaf (providing a leaner alternative to traditional ground beef while still delivering on flavor.)
  • 1 cupbreadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help to bind the meatloaf together (giving it a pleasant texture. You can use regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free breadcrumbs as a substitution.)
  • ½ cupgrated Parmesan: Parmesan adds a rich (umami flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the meatloaf.)
  • ¼ cupmilk: Milk helps to moisten the mixture (ensuring that the meatloaf remains juicy during cooking.)
  • 2large eggs: Eggs act as a binder (holding the meatloaf together for a sturdy yet tender result.)
  • 1 tbspWorcestershire sauce: This sauce adds a depth of flavor with its tangy and umami notes.
  • 1 tspsalt: Essential for seasoning (enhancing all the other flavors in the meatloaf.)
  • ½ tsppepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a slight warmth and balances the dish.
  • 2large onions (sliced: The star of the dish! Sautéed onions provide sweetness and depth of flavor.)
  • 2 tbspbutter: Used for caramelizing the onions (contributing to their delicious, rich flavor.)
  • 1 cupbeef broth: beef broth adds richness and enhances the onion flavor.
  • 8 slicesSwiss cheese: The crowning touch (melted Swiss cheese harmonizes with the caramelized onions for a creamy finish.)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Mix the meat mixture: In a large bowl, combine 2 lbs ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, ½ cup grated Parmesan, ¼ cup milk, 2 eggs, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp salt, and ½ tsp pepper. Mix until well incorporated but be careful not to overwork the meat.

  2. 2

    Shape the meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape that fits your crockpot.

  3. 3

    Caramelize the onions: In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 2 large sliced onions and cook until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions should be soft and caramelized.

  4. 4

    Add broth: Once the onions have caramelized, pour in 1 cup beef broth and stir well. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

  5. 5

    Layer the ingredients: Pour half of the caramelized onion mixture into the bottom of the crockpot. Place the shaped meatloaf on top and spread the remaining onion mixture over it.

  6. 6

    Slow cook the meatloaf: Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or until the beef is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

  7. 7

    Add Swiss cheese: About 10 minutes before serving, lay 8 slices Swiss cheese over the meatloaf, allowing it to melt.