(Pain de viande à l’oignon français au fromage suisse fondu)
If you’re craving the comforting flavors of French onion soup and a hearty meatloaf in one dish, this recipe will satisfy your soul. Juicy, flavorful ground beef is mixed with breadcrumbs, parmesan, and Worcestershire sauce, then slow-cooked and topped with sweet caramelized onions and melted Swiss cheese. It’s the perfect cozy dish for a family dinner or weekend meal prep.
🛒 Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s explore what makes this meatloaf so delicious:
For the Meatloaf:
2 lbs (900g) ground beef: Use lean or medium-fat ground beef for juicy results.
1 cup breadcrumbs: Acts as a binder and adds structure to the loaf.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth.
1/4 cup milk: Moistens the breadcrumbs to keep the loaf tender.
2 eggs: Essential binding agent for holding everything together.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and enhances the beefy flavor.
1 tsp salt & 1/2 tsp black pepper: Basic seasoning to balance the richness.
For the Topping:
2 large onions, thinly sliced: These will be slowly caramelized.
2 tbsp butter: Used to cook the onions to a deep golden color.
1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and enhances the onion’s flavor.
8 slices Swiss cheese: Melty, nutty cheese that pairs beautifully with caramelized onions.
👩🍳 Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Grated Parmesan
Milk
Eggs
Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper
Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands or a spatula. Do not overmix — this can lead to a dense meatloaf.
Step 2: Form and Place in Slow Cooker
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it into your slow cooker or cocotte. Make sure it’s snug but not touching the sides completely — this helps it cook evenly.
Step 3: Caramelize the Onions
In a skillet:
Melt butter over medium heat
Add sliced onions and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until deeply golden and soft
Pour in beef broth and simmer until mostly absorbed (about 5 more minutes)
Step 4: Add Onions to Meatloaf
Spoon the caramelized onions and remaining broth over the top of the raw meatloaf in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW heat for 6–8 hours. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish
About 10 minutes before serving, lay the Swiss cheese slices over the top of the meatloaf. Cover again and let it melt.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of this meatloaf with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
Steamed green beans
A side salad
Crusty bread to soak up those sweet onion juices
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I cook this in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the meatloaf in a loaf pan for 55–65 minutes. Add the onions and cheese during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.
Q: Can I use another type of cheese?
Swiss is ideal for its nutty melt, but you can substitute:
Provolone
Gruyère (for an authentic French twist)
Mozzarella (for extra gooeyness)
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is GF.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
Yes. Finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or grated carrots work well but be sure to sauté or drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
🔁 Make It Your Own
Here are a few optional add-ins:
A spoonful of Dijon mustard or herbs like thyme in the meat mixture
A splash of red wine when caramelizing the onions
Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
❤️ Final Thoughts
This French Onion Swiss Melt Meatloaf is the ultimate mash-up of comfort food favorites. It’s rich, savory, gooey, and sweet from the onions — everything you want on a chilly evening or to impress guests with minimal effort.