Next, in a mixing bowl, I combine the ground beef and ground pork along with the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. It’s quite a fragrant mix! I mix everything by hand (I like to get my hands in there) until all the ingredients are well combined. Then, I form the mixture into a loaf shape, being careful to pack it firmly but not too tight.
Once my meatloaf is shaped, I carefully transfer it to the Crockpot, placing it on top of the sautéed onions. I pour any leftover beef broth over the loaf to keep it moist while it cooks. I set my Crockpot on low for about 6-8 hours. As the hours tick away, my kitchen fills with the most mouth-watering aroma—it’s pure bliss!
About 30 minutes before serving, I sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese on top of the meatloaf, letting it melt beautifully before it’s ready to be served. This step takes the dish from wonderful to spectacular!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve tested this recipe a few different ways, and one thing I found is the importance of using a mix of ground beef and pork. The pork adds a richness that makes the meatloaf extra moist and flavorful. If you’re hesitant about using pork, don’t be! It makes a world of difference in taste and texture.
Another tip is to let the onions caramelize properly. The deeper the color, the sweeter and richer the flavor will be. I occasionally stir them to make sure they don’t burn, but that patience pays off with an incredible depth of flavor when combined with the meatloaf.
Lastly, I’ve discovered that letting the meatloaf rest for a few minutes after cooking helps it hold its shape when sliced. This is essential for presentation, especially if you want those beautiful cheese layers to stand out!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made early on was not incorporating enough seasoning into the meat mixture. The meatloaf can be quite plain if you’re not cautious, so don’t shy away from those spices! I learned to taste and adjust before cooking—which you can do with ground meats and seasonings as they are much easier to mix than fully-cooked dishes. (See the next page below to continue…)