French Onion Meatloaf is a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods that combines the savory flavors of caramelized onions and rich beef. Imagine sinking your fork into a slice, where the aroma of slow-cooked onions dances with the warmth of spices, creating a symphony of flavor that wraps around you like your favorite fuzzy blanket. For more inspiration, check out this hearty dinner recipes recipe.
Growing up, my family had a meatloaf night that was practically a holiday. My dad would say, “Nothing says love like a big loaf of meat!” as he served it with mashed potatoes and gravy. French Onion Meatloaf brings me right back to those cozy nights, perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight meal that will impress everyone at the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe offers an easy way to elevate traditional meatloaf with rich, caramelized onion flavors
- The beautiful layered presentation makes it visually stunning for any dinner table
- It’s versatile enough for meal prep or serving at special occasions
- Plus, leftovers are perfect for sandwiches the next day!
I remember one memorable evening when I brought this dish to a potluck, and my friends devoured it like it was the last slice of pizza at a party.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: I usually use 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and tenderness; adjust based on preference.
Caramelized Onions: Sweet, golden onions are essential; take your time cooking them for maximum sweetness.
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to help bind the meatloaf while keeping it moist.
Eggs: Two large eggs work as the binder in this recipe; they help hold everything together nicely.
Worcestershire Sauce: A splash adds depth and umami flavor; don’t skip this key ingredient!
Beef Broth: Adds moisture and flavor; opt for low-sodium varieties to control salt levels.
Herbs and Spices: Mix dried thyme, garlic powder, and pepper to enhance the overall taste profile.
Shredded Cheese (optional): Adding cheese inside or on top can elevate your meatloaf experience; choose Gruyère for that French touch!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
The Onion Magic Begins: Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until they turn golden brown and sweetly aromatic—about 20 minutes—stirring occasionally.
The Meat Mixture Assembly: In a large bowl, combine ground beef with caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, herbs, and spices. Mix gently until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatloaf.
Forming the Loaf Shape: Transfer the meat mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or loaf pan. Shape into a loaf—aiming for even thickness so it cooks uniformly—and create slight indentations on top for added texture.
Bake It Up!: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your formed meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 1 hour until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Add Optional Cheese Topping (if desired): In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of your meatloaf if you’re feeling adventurous. Let it melt beautifully while finishing cooking!
Resting Time Before Serving: Once out of the oven, let your French Onion Meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute making each bite succulent!
This recipe not only combines two beloved dishes but also simplifies meal prep by allowing you to make ahead and reheat later. Perfect for busy evenings or those days when you want something comforting yet elevated! Enjoy every delicious bite!
You Must Know
- This French Onion Meatloaf combines savory flavors and hearty textures, making it a perfect comfort food
- The aromatic onions and melted cheese elevate this classic dish
- Plus, it’s easy to prepare, ensuring you’ll impress family and friends without breaking a sweat
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions until caramelized, then mix them into the meatloaf mixture. Bake until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for optimal flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding grated Parmesan or substituting ground turkey for beef to lighten up the dish. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also boost flavors significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your French Onion Meatloaf, use freshly grated cheese for better meltability
- Avoid overmixing the meatloaf to maintain tenderness
- Pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete meal that pleases everyone
Sharing this recipe reminds me of a cozy family dinner where my meatloaf was the star of the show. Everyone went back for seconds, and I felt like a culinary rockstar!
FAQ
What is French Onion Meatloaf?
French Onion Meatloaf is a savory blend of ground meat, onions, and cheese baked together.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Try Swiss or Gouda for unique flavor profiles in your meatloaf.
How do I know when it’s cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F when fully cooked and safe to eat.
French Onion Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
French Onion Meatloaf is a delicious fusion of two comfort food classics that brings together the savory taste of caramelized onions and tender beef. This mouthwatering dish not only evokes nostalgic family dinners but also impresses guests with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions, this meatloaf guarantees satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the sliced onions until golden brown, about 20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, thyme, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Optional: In the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle cheese on top to melt.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider mixing in grated Parmesan cheese or substituting ground turkey for a lighter option. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results.
