Next, I form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it directly into the crockpot. You can line the bottom of the crockpot with parchment paper to make cleanup easier, but I usually skip this step because our family devours this dish too quickly for there to be any leftovers! After that, I whisk together the beef broth and French onion soup and pour it over the meatloaf in the slow cooker. The broth seeps into the meat, keeping it moist during the cooking process.
Set the crockpot to low and let it do its thing for about 6-8 hours. I often pop in the kitchen to give it a stir and breathe in those glorious aromas filling my space. About 30 minutes before serving, I sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. It melts into a gooey, bubbly blanket that completes the dish beautifully. Serve it straight from the pot, and you’ll hear the collective sigh of happiness from everyone at the table!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe three different ways—using all beef, mixing in pork, and even trying turkey for a lighter option. Each version has its charm! However, I find that the combination of ground beef and pork creates the most tender meatloaf with a rich flavor. The pork brings out a slight sweetness, which I adore.
It’s also worth noting that the browning of the onions truly makes a difference. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but I promise the caramelization adds an incredible depth of flavor. I set a timer for the onions to avoid burning them, which can happen when you get distracted by a television show or a good book!
Lastly, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings! I often add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or mix in some fresh herbs if I have them on hand—thyme and rosemary pair beautifully with the beef and onions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve encountered is not handling the meat mixture gently enough. Overmixing can lead to a dense meatloaf, which is not the goal here! You want to mix the ingredients just until combined for a wonderfully tender loaf. (See the next page below to continue…)