This French Onion Meatloaf takes a comforting classic and elevates it with the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese. Juicy, flavorful, and topped with a luscious onion gravy, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines two beloved comfort foods: French onion soup and meatloaf.
- Packed with flavor thanks to caramelized onions and gooey cheese.
- Easy to prepare with simple, everyday ingredients.
- Pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad.
- Freezer-friendly for meal prep or leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Bread crumbs
- Milk
- Eggs
- Caramelized onions
- Gruyere or Swiss cheese
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Onion gravy (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Prepare the Onions: Caramelize the onions in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until golden brown and soft. Set aside to cool.
- Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Incorporate the Onions and Cheese: Add the cooled caramelized onions and grated Gruyere cheese to the mixture, folding them in gently.
- Shape and Bake: Shape the mixture into a loaf on a lined baking sheet or place it in a loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Prepare the Gravy: While the meatloaf bakes, prepare a simple onion gravy if desired.
- Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with onion gravy and your favorite sides.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap Gruyere for mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Alternatives: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add finely diced mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Topping Twist: Top with crispy fried onions before serving for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: Wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I keep the meatloaf from drying out?
Mix in ingredients like milk and eggs, and avoid overbaking. Resting the meatloaf before slicing also helps retain moisture.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
What’s the best way to caramelize onions?
Cook them slowly over medium heat with a bit of butter or oil, stirring occasionally until they’re golden and soft.
Can I use pre-cooked onions?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramelized onions for convenience, but homemade adds better flavor.
Do I have to use Gruyere cheese?
No, you can substitute with other melty cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or mozzarella.
How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Can I make a gravy without onions?
Yes, a simple brown gravy made from beef stock, flour, and butter works great.
Can I cook this meatloaf in a slow cooker?
Yes, shape the loaf and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad are classic pairings.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the rich flavors and cheesy texture make it a hit with kids.
Conclusion
French Onion Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a beloved classic, combining the richness of caramelized onions and melted cheese with the comfort of a hearty meatloaf. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for an easy meal prep option, this recipe delivers in flavor, texture, and ease. Try it out and enjoy a new family favorite!
PrintFrench Onion Meatloaf
French Onion Meatloaf combines the hearty comfort of traditional meatloaf with the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup. This dish features caramelized onions and melted Gruyère cheese, making it a delightful meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
For the French Onion Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Add half of the caramelized onions to the mixture, reserving the other half for the sauce.
- Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish or loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Prepare the French Onion Sauce:
- While the meatloaf is baking, return the reserved caramelized onions to the skillet.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the onions and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 1 cup of beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken into a savory onion sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the Cheese and Broil:
- Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and top it with the grated Gruyère cheese.
- Switch the oven to broil and return the meatloaf to the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with French Onion Sauce:
- Slice the meatloaf and serve it with the rich French onion sauce spooned over the top.
Notes
- Caramelize Onions Slowly: Don’t rush the caramelization process. Cooking the onions low and slow brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: When combining the meatloaf ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Gruyère Cheese Alternative: If you don’t have Gruyère cheese, you can substitute it with Swiss or mozzarella for a similar melt and flavor.