1. Saute the onions in a small amount of olive oil on the stovetop until soft.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the meat, cherries, cheese, salt, pepper, onion, basil, crushed crackers and egg.
4. Spray the inside of the stoneware (or loaf pan) with cooking spray. Put the meat into the crock and shape into a large round circle in the center.
5. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 7 to 8 hours. The meat loaf is done when it has browned on top and darkened on the edges.
Serves: 6-8
Visit
www.foodsafety.gov for more information on safe internal cooking temperatures.
TEST KITCHEN TIP: Do not use low fat beef or the loaf may not be as moist.