(Pain de viand à logion François au fromager Suisse fondue)
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
Gruyere (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.