This French Onion Meatloaf is a tasty twist on a classic dish! It’s packed with the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory beef, all topped with melted cheese. Yum!
Sometimes I think meatloaf deserves more love. Plus, you can serve it with mashed potatoes or a salad, making it a perfect comfort meal for any day! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 beef is ideal because it balances flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, 90/10 works too but may yield a drier meatloaf. For a healthier choice, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, though they might need seasoning adjustments.
Onions: Regular yellow onions caramelize beautifully for this dish, adding sweetness. If you’re out of yellow onions, try sweet onions or even shallots, which will provide a similar flavor profile. Avoid using red onions as they’re a bit sharper.
Cheese: Gruyère is my favorite for its rich flavor and meltiness. If it isn’t available, Swiss cheese works as a good substitute. For a different flavor, cheddar can also work but be cautious as it’s sharper.
Breadcrumbs: You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs; just consider reducing added salt if you choose seasoned ones. If you’re gluten-free, swap with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oats.
How Can I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions might seem tricky, but patience is key! This technique unlocks the sweetness in the onions, blending beautifully into your meatloaf. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start by heating butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and stir to coat. Cook slowly on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Near the end of cooking, add minced garlic and sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant.
- Look for a golden brown color; that’s the sweet spot!
Keep an eye on the heat; lower is better than high to avoid burning. Letting the onions sit undisturbed for a few minutes helps them caramelize evenly too!
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the French Onion Glaze:
- 1/2 cup caramelized onion jam or
- 1/2 cup caramelized onions with 1/4 cup beef broth and 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, reduced to a thick glaze
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of cooking time, making a total of around 1 hour and 15 minutes. You’ll spend time prepping ingredients and then let the oven do the work while you get the kitchen smelling delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your meatloaf when you’re done assembling it. Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later on.
2. Cook the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them slowly, stirring often for about 20-25 minutes. You want them to be deeply caramelized and golden brown. In the last couple of minutes, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Set your delicious onion mixture aside.
3. Prepare the Breadcrumbs:
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes to soak up the milk, which helps keep the meatloaf moist.
4. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, soaked breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients together gently, taking care not to overwork the meat. This helps keep the meatloaf tender.
5. Add the Caramelized Onions:
Now stir in about half of the caramelized onions into the meat mixture. This infuses the meatloaf with that delicious onion flavor.
6. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan and shape it into a loaf. Make sure it’s evenly formed for uniform cooking.
7. Glaze the Meatloaf:
Spread the French onion glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This gives it a sweet and savory finish as it cooks.
8. Bake the Meatloaf:
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese evenly on top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes. The meatloaf is done once the cheese is melted and bubbly and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
9. Rest and Slice:
After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it hold its shape when you slice it.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve it up with any extra caramelized onions or glaze. This French Onion Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy this comforting dish with everyone around your table! 😋
Can I Use Leaner Ground Beef?
Yes, you can use leaner ground beef, like 90/10, but keep in mind that it may result in a drier meatloaf. To compensate, you might want to add a bit more moisture, like an extra tablespoon of milk or a little more Worcestershire sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze meatloaf by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Meatloaf Without Breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed oats or even cooked quinoa for a different texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. Just adjust the seasoning to taste!
What Can I Serve with French Onion Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.