When you think of French onion soup, you probably imagine a steaming bowl of caramelized onions, rich broth, and gooey melted cheese on top. Now picture those flavors transformed into a comforting, hearty meatloaf that cooks low and slow in your crockpot. That’s exactly what this Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf delivers—a cozy, family-style dinner that requires minimal effort but packs in maximum flavor.

This recipe was inspired by one of my favorite weeknight strategies: turning a classic dish into a slow-cooker version that works while I get through my day. The beauty of this meatloaf is how it captures the savory depth of caramelized onions, the tenderness of beef, and that irresistible cheesy topping without hours of babysitting at the stove. You simply mix, shape, and let the crockpot do its thing.

Growing up, meatloaf was always one of those “mom classics” on our table, but it wasn’t until I experimented with French onion soup flavors that it truly became something special. The sweetness of the onions paired with beefy richness makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a complete dinner worthy of Sunday supper—or even a holiday table.

If you’ve been looking for a fresh twist on meatloaf or want a crockpot dinner that feels both nostalgic and new, this French Onion Meatloaf is going to become a regular in your rotation. It’s hearty, full of flavor, and reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Why You’ll Love It

• Slow Cooker Convenience: Hands-off cooking lets you go about your day while dinner simmers away.

• Bold Flavor: French onion soup mix and caramelized onions bring rich, savory depth.

• Moist and Tender: Cooking in the crockpot keeps the meatloaf juicy and never dry.

• Family Friendly: A comfort food classic with a gourmet twist that everyone will enjoy.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes delicious leftovers for sandwiches or next-day dinners.

Ingredient Notes & Details

• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can make the loaf too dry.

• French Onion Soup Mix: The secret flavor booster—adds seasoning without extra work.

• Onions: Sliced and slightly caramelized before adding for authentic French onion flavor.

• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the loaf and soak up juices for tenderness.

• Eggs: Essential for holding the mixture together.

• Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss is classic for French onion flavor, but mozzarella works as a gooey alternative.

• Beef Broth: Creates a savory base for moisture and flavor during slow cooking.

• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and umami that enhances the beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions: In a skillet, sauté sliced onions in butter until softened and lightly caramelized. This step adds richness and sweetness to your meatloaf.

   

   

2. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix gently until just combined.

3. Shape the Loaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape. Place it on parchment or directly into your crockpot insert.

4. Add Broth: Pour beef broth around the meatloaf in the crockpot. This keeps it moist and infuses more flavor.

5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F).

   

6. Add Cheese: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the top with shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Cover until melted.

7. Serve: Spoon some of the onion-rich broth over each slice before serving for extra flavor.

FAQ

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix and shape the loaf the night before, store it in the fridge, and pop it into the crockpot the next morning.

Do I need to sauté the onions first?
Technically, no—but caramelizing them enhances flavor. If short on time, you can toss raw onions in, but the taste won’t be as rich.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, but the loaf will be lighter. Add a little olive oil or extra broth to prevent dryness.

How do I know when it’s done?
Use a meat thermometer—look for an internal temp of 160°F.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?
Yes! Bake at 375°F for 50–60 minutes, uncovered, then melt cheese on top at the end.

What should I serve with it?
Mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or buttered egg noodles pair perfectly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in foil, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F covered with foil, or microwave individual slices with a spoonful of broth to keep them moist.

Variations

• Cheesy Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of cheese cubes inside the loaf for melty pockets.

• Mushroom French Onion Meatloaf: Add sautéed mushrooms to the mixture or the gravy for extra flavor.

• Mini Loaves: Shape into smaller loaves or muffins for faster cooking and portion control.

• Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free oats or cracker crumbs.

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or chili flakes to the meat mixture for heat.

Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf

This Crockpot French Onion Meatloaf is a savory twist on a classic—juicy ground beef slow-cooked with French onion flavors, topped with melted cheese and caramelized onions for the ultimate comfort food dinner!

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Prep Time: 15minutes minutes

Cook Time: 6hours hours

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef 80/20 works best
  
• 1 packet 1 oz dry onion soup mix
• 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 medium onion thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch optional, for thickening sauce

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Instructions

• Prepare Onions
• In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onion and cook until soft and golden (about 10 minutes). This step builds flavor.
  

  

• Mix Meatloaf
• In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Parmesan, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently until combined (don’t overwork the meat).
• Shape & Assemble
• Form the mixture into a loaf shape. Place into the crockpot.
• Arrange the cooked onions on top and around the loaf.
• Add Broth & Flavor
• Pour beef broth and Worcestershire sauce around the meatloaf (not directly on top).
• Cook
• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Thicken Sauce (Optional)
• If you’d like a gravy, remove 1/2 cup of the broth from the crockpot and whisk with 1 tablespoon cornstarch. Return to the crockpot and stir until slightly thickened.
• Serve
• Slice the meatloaf and spoon caramelized onions and broth over the top before serving.