1. Prepare the Onions
In a skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions and sugar, cooking over medium-low heat until golden and caramelized (about 20 minutes). Set aside.
2. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion soup mix, milk, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Shape into a loaf.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place half the caramelized onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Set the meatloaf on top. Spread remaining onions over the loaf.
4. Add Broth
Whisk beef broth, flour, and Worcestershire sauce together. Pour around (not directly on top of) the loaf.
5. Cook Low & Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until meatloaf is cooked through (internal temp 160°F / 71°C).
6. Add Cheese
During the last 10 minutes, sprinkle Gruyère or Swiss cheese on top, cover, and let melt.
7. Serve
Slice meatloaf and spoon over rich onion gravy from the slow cooker. Serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix – Gently combine the meatloaf ingredients to keep it tender.
- Extra richness – Use a mix of ground beef and ground pork.
- Make-ahead – Prepare the meatloaf the night before, refrigerate, and cook the next day.
- For thicker gravy – Remove liquid from the slow cooker, simmer on the stovetop with a cornstarch slurry until thickened, then pour back over.
Fun Variations
- Mushroom Twist – Add caramelized mushrooms with the onions.
- BBQ French Onion Meatloaf – Swap broth for onion soup and top with BBQ sauce.
- Cheesy Center – Stuff shredded Swiss inside the loaf for a melty surprise.
- Mini Loaves – Shape into smaller loaves for quicker cooking.
What to Serve With It
This meatloaf is hearty on its own, but pairs perfectly with:
- Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
- Roasted green beans or asparagus
- Crusty bread for soaking up the gravy
- A crisp side salad for balance
Why This Recipe Will Be a Family Favorite
Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf is the perfect blend of homestyle comfort and gourmet flavor. The slow cooker ensures it’s juicy and tender, while caramelized onions and melty cheese make it feel indulgent and special. It’s a recipe that brings people back for seconds and leaves your kitchen smelling incredible.
Final Thought: If you love meatloaf and French onion soup, this recipe is the best of both worlds. Slow-cooked, cheesy, and smothered in onion gravy, Slow Cooker French Onion Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food you’ll want in your dinner rotation.