French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Meatloaf is a delicious and savory twist on the classic meatloaf. Combining the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with the hearty, satisfying texture of a traditional meatloaf, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The tender meatloaf, packed with layers of onion and savory seasoning, is topped with a rich, cheesy glaze that brings everything together in the most flavorful way.

This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner or for impressing guests at your next gathering. It’s the kind of meal that offers a homey, nostalgic feeling while still bringing something new to the table. Whether you’re a meatloaf aficionado or someone looking to try a new spin on a familiar favorite, French Onion Meatloaf delivers a delectable experience that’s both satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love French Onion Meatloaf

• Savory Flavor Profile: The combination of caramelized onions, beef, and a rich, cheesy glaze brings out deep, savory flavors that are both comforting and irresistible. The umami-packed French onion flavor elevates the meatloaf to new heights.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the addition of French onion soup mix and caramelized onions, the meatloaf stays moist and tender, without becoming dry like some traditional meatloafs can be.
• Cheese and Onion Topping: The gooey, melted cheese on top of the meatloaf creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds a wonderful texture to each bite. The caramelized onions also give it a sweet yet savory finish that’s the perfect contrast to the meat.
• Perfect for Leftovers: French Onion Meatloaf makes great leftovers. Whether you enjoy it cold in sandwiches or reheat it for a second serving, the flavors deepen and continue to impress.
• Easy to Make: Despite its complex flavor, French Onion Meatloaf is surprisingly easy to make. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward, so even novice cooks can feel confident preparing this dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup bread crumbs (preferably fresh)
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or Gruyère cheese)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions

Start by caramelizing the onions, which will add that rich, sweet flavor to the meatloaf. In a medium skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft, golden brown, and slightly caramelized. Be patient, as this process takes time and brings out the deep, sweet flavor of the onions.

Once the onions are done, remove them from the heat and set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, French onion soup mix, minced garlic, egg, bread crumbs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix the ingredients together until fully combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture, as this can lead to a tough meatloaf.

Once the mixture is combined, fold in half of the caramelized onions. The remaining onions will be used for the topping.

3. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a freeform loaf on a lined baking sheet. If using a loaf pan, press the meat mixture down gently to ensure it’s evenly distributed. If shaping by hand, form the mixture into a log shape that will fit comfortably on your baking sheet.

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

4. Prepare the Topping

While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the topping. In the same skillet you used for the onions, heat a bit more butter over medium heat. Add the remaining sliced onions and cook them for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and lightly golden. These onions will add texture and extra flavor to the meatloaf topping.

In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese and Swiss cheese (or Gruyère cheese). Set the cheese aside for now.

5. Assemble the Meatloaf

Once the meatloaf is finished baking, remove it from the oven. Spoon the sautéed onions evenly over the top of the meatloaf, followed by the shredded cheese mixture. Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Let the Meatloaf Rest

Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the meatloaf holds together when sliced.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Slice the meatloaf into thick slices and serve immediately. The caramelized onions on top add both sweetness and richness, while the gooey, melted cheese creates a delicious, comforting finish. Serve the French Onion Meatloaf with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix the Meatloaf: When mixing the meatloaf ingredients, be sure to mix until just combined. Overmixing can cause the meatloaf to be dense and tough. The goal is a tender, juicy meatloaf.
• Use Fresh Bread Crumbs: For a light and tender meatloaf, use fresh bread crumbs. If you don’t have fresh bread, you can pulse some day-old bread in a food processor until it forms crumbs.
• Be Patient with Caramelizing the Onions: Caramelizing onions takes time and patience, but it’s worth it for the deep, sweet flavor it adds to the dish. Keep the heat moderate and stir frequently to avoid burning.
• Choose Lean Meat for a Balanced Texture: Ground beef with 80% lean meat is ideal for this recipe. It provides enough fat to keep the meatloaf moist, while also maintaining a good texture. If you use a leaner cut of beef, consider adding a bit of olive oil or extra moisture to keep the loaf tender.
• Check the Internal Temperature: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. It should register at least 160°F (71°C) in the center. This is particularly important if you’re using a larger or thicker meatloaf.

Variations of French Onion Meatloaf

• Bacon-Wrapped French Onion Meatloaf: For a smoky twist, wrap the meatloaf in bacon before baking. The bacon crisps up during baking and adds an extra layer of flavor to the meatloaf.
• French Onion Meatloaf Muffins: If you’re looking for an individual serving option, you can bake the meatloaf in a muffin tin. This reduces cooking time and makes portion control easier. Just bake for 20-25 minutes and top with cheese and onions as usual.
• Vegetarian French Onion Meatloaf: For a meat-free version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat, such as lentils or a store-bought meat alternative. You can still caramelize onions and add cheese for the same delicious flavors.
• Spicy French Onion Meatloaf: Add a touch of heat by mixing in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. This spicy kick pairs well with the sweet caramelized onions and rich cheese topping.
• Herb-Infused Meatloaf: For added flavor, experiment with different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil in the meat mixture. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish and provide a unique twist.

Storage and Shelf Life

French Onion Meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The leftovers also make great sandwiches or can be served with mashed potatoes for a comforting second meal.

For longer storage, you can freeze the meatloaf. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for French Onion Meatloaf

Pair your French Onion Meatloaf with side dishes that complement its rich, savory flavor:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic side for meatloaf, creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the hearty meat and cheese.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and herbs offer a fresh, slightly crispy side to balance the richness of the meatloaf.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes the perfect accompaniment for this French onion twist on meatloaf. It’s great for soaking up any extra sauce or cheese.
• Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meatloaf, offering a crisp, tangy counterpoint.
• Creamed Spinach: For a decadent pairing, serve your meatloaf with creamy spinach. The creamy texture and slightly bitter spinach provide a lovely contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

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Conclusion

French Onion Meatloaf is a unique and flavorful twist on a beloved classic. The savory caramelized onions, melted cheese, and tender beef combine to create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. With its easy preparation and rich flavors, French Onion Meatloaf is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy every savory bite, and let the flavors melt in your mouth!