This French Onion Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic! It features ground beef mixed with sweet caramelized onions and topped with a yummy glaze. Perfect for family dinners!
I love how it fills the kitchen with a warm, comforting smell. You can serve it with mashed potatoes or just enjoy it with some bread. Either way, it’s simply delightful! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: They’re perfect for caramelizing, bringing a sweet flavor to the meatloaf. If you have red onions, they can work too but will be slightly sharper in taste.
Ground Beef: I recommend 80% lean for the balance of flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can substitute, but you might need to add a bit more fat, like olive oil.
Swiss or Gruyère Cheese: I love Gruyère for its nutty flavor, but Swiss works great too. If you’re looking for dairy-free, try vegan cheese which melts nicely, or skip it altogether for a lighter version.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs for this recipe, but if you have Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, they can add an extra flavor kick!
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions is a key step that enriches the flavor of your meatloaf. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat butter and oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, sprinkle with sugar and salt to help them break down.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Low and slow is the key, so don’t rush it!
- Once they’re golden and soft, set them aside to cool for a bit.
What’s the Best Way to Make Sure the Meatloaf Holds Together?
To keep your meatloaf from falling apart, here are a few tips:
- Mix everything gently but thoroughly. Overworking can lead to a dense loaf.
- The breadcrumbs soaked in milk help hold moisture and act as a binder.
- If your mixture feels too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to firm it up.
How Can You Make a Chunkier Onion Gravy?
If you prefer a heartier gravy to top your meatloaf, try these steps:
- Keep some of your caramelized onions chunky instead of mixing them all into the gravy.
- Add a bit of sautéed mushrooms to the mixture for extra texture.
- Consider using less broth or adding a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water) to thicken it up!
With these tips and insights, you’re all set to create a delicious French Onion Meatloaf that your family will love! Enjoy cooking!
French Onion Meatloaf Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
For the Onion Gravy:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
For Topping:
- 4 slices Swiss cheese or Gruyère cheese
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and approximately 60 minutes for cooking. You’ll need around 45 minutes for the meatloaf to bake, plus an additional 10-15 minutes for the cheese to melt and for the dish to rest.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it time to heat up while you prepare the meatloaf.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the sliced onions. Sprinkle the sugar and a pinch of salt over them. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and soft. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool a bit.
3. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, soak the plain breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes, until the milk is fully absorbed. This helps keep your meatloaf moist.
4. Combine the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and the majority of the caramelized onions (reserve a couple of tablespoons for topping). Add salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture.
5. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:
Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a lightly greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for around 45 minutes.
6. Prepare the Onion Gravy:
While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the onion gravy. In the same skillet used for the onions, sprinkle the flour and stir over medium heat until it turns golden, about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and the optional soy sauce, along with the reserved caramelized onions. Let it simmer until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Add Cheese and Finish Baking:
After the meatloaf has baked for 45 minutes, spoon a few tablespoons of the onion gravy over the top. Lay the cheese slices evenly on the meatloaf and return it to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
8. Rest and Serve:
When it’s done, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with the remaining onion gravy on the side.
Enjoy your richly flavorful French Onion Meatloaf with the perfect balance of sweet caramelized onions and melty cheese!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative! Just keep in mind that it may result in a drier texture, so consider adding a little olive oil or additional moisture to the mix.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them!
Can I Add Vegetables to the Meatloaf Mix?
Absolutely! Chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms add flavor and moisture to the meatloaf. Just be sure to finely chop them so they blend well and don’t make the mixture too wet.
What Can I Serve with French Onion Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing salad. You can also serve it on a bun for a delicious meatloaf sandwich! Enjoy!
