This French Onion Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic dish! It’s packed with savory flavors from caramelized onions and melted cheese, making every bite a real treat.
Who knew meatloaf could be so fancy? I love serving it with mashed potatoes to soak up all those delicious juices. Trust me, you’ll want to have seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onions: Caramelizing yellow onions adds a sweet depth of flavor. You can use sweet onions like Vidalia if you prefer a milder taste. Personally, I think the more onions, the better!
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the meatloaf a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken can replace beef. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out.
Cheese: Gruyère is my favorite for its creamy texture and nutty flavor. If it’s unavailable, Swiss cheese or even cheddar are great alternatives. Add a mix for a unique twist!
Breadcrumbs: I’ve used plain breadcrumbs, but you could use panko for extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a perfect substitute if needed!
How Do I Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions requires patience but pays off with rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the olive oil in your skillet on medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and give them a good stir to coat. Lower the heat to medium-low to cook slowly without burning.
- Stir every few minutes for about 25-30 minutes. The goal is a golden-brown color.
- Add garlic and thyme for the last minute for that delicious aroma.
Keep an eye on them and don’t rush the process; it’s worth the wait for that sweet flavor!
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or stock
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious French Onion Meatloaf will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need about 15-20 minutes for prep and about 50-60 minutes for baking. Plus, a 10-minute rest time after it comes out of the oven. A little patience goes a long way for maximum flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial to ensure your meatloaf cooks evenly.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir often. You want them to cook slowly until they’re a deep golden brown and caramelized, which should take about 25-30 minutes. Patience is key here – the sweeter, the better!
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Once your onions are beautifully caramelized, add the minced garlic and thyme. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. Then stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, letting it simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the heat and let it cool a bit.
4. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Use your hands or a spoon to combine gently, being careful not to overmix. This helps keep your meatloaf tender!
5. Combine with Onions:
Fold half of the cooled caramelized onion mixture into the meat mixture. This is where the flavor really starts to come together!
6. Shape the Meatloaf:
Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased loaf pan or onto a lined baking sheet. You want a nice shape for even baking.
7. Add Topping:
Spread the rest of the caramelized onions over the top of the meatloaf, then sprinkle the shredded cheese generously on top. Cheese makes everything better!
8. Bake to Perfection:
Put the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You are looking for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked, and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden.
9. Rest and Serve:
When it’s done, take the meatloaf out and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices locked in. Garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely finishing touch!
Serve warm with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these meats tend to dry out more easily, so ensure not to overcook them!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meatloaf and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf?
Yes, you can freeze the meatloaf! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
How Do I Know When the Meatloaf is Done?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (71°C) in the center of the loaf. This ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to eat!
