Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese Delicious

Introduction

Are you tired of the same old meatloaf recipes that leave your taste buds yawning? Look no further, because this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is about to change the game. Imagine the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup combined with the comforting heartiness of a classic meatloaf, all wrapped up in a cheesy, melty package. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, get ready to be amazed as we dive into this delectable recipe that’s poised to become your new family favorite.

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 4 oz sliced Swiss cheese

For the onion soup mix, you can use a pre-made packet or create your own blend with a combination of dried onions, beef bouillon, and seasonings like thyme, garlic powder, and parsley.

Timing

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 4-6 hours on low in the crockpot
Total time: 4 hours and 15 minutes, which is 20% faster than the average meatloaf recipe.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix the ingredients together until they are well incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense, tough meatloaf.

Step 2: Shape the Meatloaf

Lightly grease the insert of your crockpot with cooking spray or oil. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the crockpot and shape it into a loaf, making sure it fits comfortably in the insert without touching the sides.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour the beef broth around the sides of the meatloaf, being careful not to pour it directly on top, as this can cause the top to become soggy.

Step 4: Cook the Meatloaf

Cover the crockpot and cook the meatloaf on the low setting for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and shape of your crockpot, so be sure to check the meatloaf periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Once the meatloaf is cooked through, carefully remove the lid and arrange the sliced Swiss cheese on top. Replace the lid and let the cheese melt for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a serving platter or cutting board. Slice and serve the Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 470 per serving
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 160mg
• Sodium: 890mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this recipe even healthier, you can try the following modifications:

• Use a leaner ground beef, such as 93% or 95% lean, to reduce the overall fat and calorie content.
• Swap the breadcrumbs for whole wheat breadcrumbs or oats to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
• Incorporate finely chopped mushrooms or grated zucchini into the meatloaf mixture to add extra moisture and vegetables.
• Use low-sodium or reduced-sodium beef broth to lower the sodium content.
• Top the meatloaf with a layer of roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers or eggplant, instead of cheese for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Some delicious options include:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans
• A fresh garden salad with a balsamic vinaigrette
• Crusty bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful juices

For a complete meal, you can also serve the meatloaf with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted cauliflower, or a hearty helping of buttered egg noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the meatloaf mixture: This can result in a dense, tough texture. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined.
• Overcooking the meatloaf: Keep an eye on the internal temperature and don’t let it exceed 160°F, as this can dry out the meatloaf.
• Pouring the broth directly on top of the meatloaf: This can make the top soggy. Pour the broth around the sides instead.
• Forgetting to let the cheese melt: Don’t skip the final step of letting the cheese melt on top of the cooked meatloaf.
• Serving the meatloaf straight from the crockpot: Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to ensure the slices hold their shape.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave or oven until heated through.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the meatloaf. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave.

To prepare the meatloaf mixture in advance, you can mix the ingredients and shape the loaf, then refrigerate or freeze it uncooked. When ready to cook, simply place the raw meatloaf in the crockpot and follow the remaining steps.

Conclusion

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a game-changer in the world of comfort food. With its irresistible flavors and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up that crockpot, and get ready to indulge in a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds craving more.

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FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

A: Absolutely! This recipe can be easily adapted to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, as turkey and chicken tend to cook a bit faster than beef. You may also want to add a bit more seasoning to compensate for the milder flavor of the poultry.

Q: Can I make this meatloaf in the oven instead of the crockpot?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this meatloaf in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the meatloaf for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Be sure to cover the meatloaf with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent the top from drying out, then remove the foil for the last 15-30 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown.

Q: Can I add any extra vegetables to the meatloaf?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily incorporate additional vegetables. Some great options include finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if you add a significant amount of extra ingredients, as this can affect the overall cooking time.

Q: How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

A: The best way to ensure your meatloaf is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meatloaf, and it should read 160°F (71°C) or higher. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check for doneness by cutting into the center of the meatloaf – the juices should run clear, and the meat should be cooked through without any pink remaining.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this meatloaf ahead of time. You can either prepare the entire meatloaf mixture, shape it, and refrigerate or freeze it uncooked, or you can cook the meatloaf in the crockpot and then reheat it when you’re ready to serve. If refrigerating or freezing the uncooked meatloaf, be sure to let it come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese Delicious

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• Author: felis
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Slowcook French Onion Meatloaf w Melted Swiss Delicious crockpot dish Savory cheesy flavors Easy prep handsoff cook tech

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 lbs ground beef

1 onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup breadcrumbs

2 eggs, beaten

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 cups beef broth

4 oz sliced Swiss cheese

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Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Lightly grease the insert of your crockpot with cooking spray or oil. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the crockpot and shape it into a loaf.

Pour the beef broth around the sides of the meatloaf, being careful not to pour it directly on top.

Cover the crockpot and cook the meatloaf on the low setting for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Once the meatloaf is cooked through, carefully remove the lid and arrange the sliced Swiss cheese on top. Replace the lid and let the cheese melt for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a serving platter or cutting board. Slice and serve.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours 6 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Crockpot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 470 calories
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 40g

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