The combination of savory French onion soup with the richness of ground beef creates a mouthwatering meatloaf that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The slow cooking process in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a tender, juicy meatloaf that is perfectly complemented by the creamy, melted Swiss cheese on top. This dish is a comforting, hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners on chilly nights.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup French onion soup (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded or sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mix:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in ½ cup of the French onion soup and mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Shape the Meatloaf:
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil. The parchment paper will help with transferring the meatloaf to the crockpot and keeping its shape during cooking.
- Cook in the Crockpot:
- Carefully transfer the meatloaf into the crockpot. Pour the remaining ½ cup of French onion soup over the top of the meatloaf. This will infuse the meatloaf with even more flavor and keep it moist during cooking.
- Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Add the Swiss Cheese:
- Once the meatloaf is cooked, carefully sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the top or lay slices evenly across the loaf. Place the lid back on the crockpot and let the cheese melt for about 10-15 minutes. The cheese should be gooey and fully melted, adding a delicious creamy texture to the meatloaf.
- Serve:
- Using the parchment paper or foil, carefully lift the meatloaf out of the crockpot and place it on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Slice and serve the meatloaf hot, with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.
