This French Onion Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It combines ground beef with rich, caramelized onions and melty cheese for a comforting meal everyone will love.
I mean, who can resist the warm, cheesy goodness? I usually serve it with mashed potatoes or a side salad for a complete dinner. Perfect for cozy nights in! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main part of our meatloaf. You can use 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re leaner on beef, consider adding some ground turkey for a lighter version.
Ground Pork: Using pork adds juiciness. If you want to skip it, just increase the beef slightly, or add a little more cheese to keep things moist.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you want a sharper flavor, try red onions instead.
Cheese: Gruyère gives a lovely rich taste, but Swiss cheese or even Cheddar can work nicely if you can’t find Gruyère.
Breadcrumbs: I like using Italian-style breadcrumbs for added flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use crushed gluten-free crackers or even oats.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is all about patience and the right heat. Here’s how you can do this step for the best flavor:
- Start with medium heat and add butter and olive oil to a skillet.
- Add sliced onions and stir occasionally. Don’t rush it! Let them cook for 25-30 minutes.
- If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat. You’re aiming for a deep golden color, not burnt bits.
This slow process brings out the natural sweetness and gives your meatloaf a deliciously rich flavor!
How to Make French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meatloaf Base:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork (optional, for juiciness)
Vegetables and Flavor:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Cheese and Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1 cup beef broth
Binding Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 1 hour of cooking time. You’ll spend 30 minutes caramelizing the onions, 40 minutes baking the meatloaf, and another 15 to 20 minutes to finish it off with cheese and broth. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Caramelize the Onions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, melt the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook gently, stirring often, for about 25-30 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and soft. This process brings out their amazing sweetness, so be sure not to rush it! Once done, set the onions aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef and pork (if using), breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined. Don’t overmix, or your meatloaf might be tough!
3. Combine with Onions:
Fold in about half of the caramelized onions into the meat mixture. These will add great flavor and moisture to your meatloaf.
4. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. The loaf should start to firm up and brown.
5. Add Cheese and Broth:
After the initial baking time, take the meatloaf out of the oven. Spread the remaining caramelized onions evenly over the top, then sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Pour beef broth around the loaf in the pan to keep it moist.
6. Final Bake:
Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Look for the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and make sure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it hold together when you slice it. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve with the delicious caramelized onion sauce from the pan alongside your favorite sides!
Enjoy your rich, savory French Onion Meatloaf!
Can I Substitute the Ground Pork?
Yes! If you’d rather not use ground pork, simply increase the amount of ground beef to 1.5 lbs. Alternatively, you can add an extra egg or some cheese to maintain moisture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Different Cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyère or Swiss works great, feel free to substitute with Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed. Just ensure it’s a melting cheese for the best results.
What Should I Serve with French Onion Meatloaf?
This meatloaf is delicious served with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or roasted vegetables. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs particularly well with the rich flavors of the meatloaf!
