French Onion Meatloaf

 

French Onion Meatloaf is a savory, flavorful twist on the classic comfort dish that’s packed with the rich, caramelized flavor of onions and topped with a melty layer of cheese. It’s not heavy or overly complicated but is a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner.

If you’re a fan of French onion soup, you’ll adore this meatloaf version. The combination of caramelized onions mixed into the meatloaf and a rich topping of melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s both hearty and satisfying. If you’ve been looking for a way to elevate traditional meatloaf into something truly special, you’ve come to the right place. With a balance of savory, cheesy, and umami flavors, this French Onion Meatloaf is a dish your whole family will love!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients Overview

Meat Mixture:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatloaf and keep it tender.
• Eggs: Essential for holding the ingredients together.
• Caramelized Onions: Provide a deep, rich flavor reminiscent of French onion soup.

Flavor Additions:

• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Beef Broth: Infuses moisture and enhances the meatloaf’s flavor.
• Shredded Gruyère Cheese: Melts beautifully over the meatloaf, adding a cheesy finish.

Seasonings:

• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic depth to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance and bring out all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring often, until they are soft and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water or beef broth. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, half of the cooled caramelized onions, minced garlic, and salt and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Shape the Meatloaf: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and shape the meat mixture into a loaf. Place the meatloaf into the prepared pan.
4. Top with Cheese and Onions: Spread the remaining caramelized onions over the top of the meatloaf. Pour a bit of beef broth around the sides of the meatloaf to keep it moist while cooking. Cover the loaf pan with aluminum foil.
5. Bake: Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and top with shredded Gruyère cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and makes slicing easier.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t Rush the Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions. They should be a rich golden brown to achieve that signature French onion flavor.
• Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have Gruyère, try Swiss or mozzarella cheese for a similarly melty, delicious finish.
• Moisture Matters: Adding a bit of beef broth around the meatloaf keeps it moist as it bakes, so don’t skip this step.

What to Serve With This Recipe

French Onion Meatloaf pairs beautifully with:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts adds a healthy and colorful side.
• Crusty Bread: To complete the French onion theme, serve with slices of crusty bread to mop up any delicious gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef, though the flavor will be slightly different. Be sure to adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the meatloaf and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• Family Dinner: Serve alongside mashed potatoes and a simple green salad for a hearty meal.
• Special Occasion: Impress guests by pairing with roasted vegetables and a glass of red wine.
• Comfort Food Night: Enjoy with buttery dinner rolls and steamed green beans for a comforting classic.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth, plus more for caramelizing onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil or butter. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring often, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes). Set aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, half of the caramelized onions, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until just combined.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the pan.
4. Spread the remaining caramelized onions over the top and pour beef broth around the meatloaf. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, top with shredded Gruyère cheese, and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the meatloaf is cooked through.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious French Onion Meatloaf!