Why You’ll Love This Recipe
French Onion Meatloaf takes the hearty comfort of traditional meatloaf and elevates it with the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup. Juicy ground beef is mixed with savory seasonings, breadcrumbs, and caramelized onions, then topped with melty cheese and a flavorful onion gravy. The result is tender, moist, and loaded with bold flavor. This dish is perfect for family dinners, offering a cozy yet sophisticated spin on a weeknight classic. Serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables, and you’ll have a meal that feels indulgent yet familiar.
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French Onion Meatloaf
- Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A savory twist on classic meatloaf, infused with caramelized onions, French onion seasoning, and topped with melty cheese for a comforting and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook onions until caramelized, about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic in the last 2 minutes. Remove half of the onions and set aside for topping.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, black pepper, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix until just combined.
- Shape mixture into a loaf and place in prepared pan.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes. Remove from oven, top with remaining caramelized onions and shredded cheese.
- Return to oven for 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- Pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 55 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef – The hearty base of the meatloaf.
Onions – Caramelized low and slow for that signature French onion flavor.
Butter – Used to caramelize the onions and add richness.
Garlic – Infuses the meat mixture and onions with savory depth.
Beef broth – Enhances the onion mixture and later forms the gravy.
Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatloaf and keep it moist.
Eggs – Act as a binder for structure.
Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and a subtle tang.
Thyme – Earthy herb that complements caramelized onions.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings.
Gruyère or Swiss cheese – Melted on top for a French onion soup-inspired finish.
Flour – Used to thicken the onion gravy.
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and cook sliced onions until golden and caramelized, about 25–30 minutes. Stir in garlic, thyme, and a splash of beef broth. Set aside half the onion mixture for the gravy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and the remaining onion mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Shape into a loaf and place in a greased baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes. During the last 10 minutes, top with shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
Meanwhile, prepare the gravy. In the same skillet with reserved onions, sprinkle flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth. Simmer until thickened, then season to taste.
Slice the meatloaf and serve topped with onion gravy.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation takes 20 minutes, with cooking requiring about 1 hour (including caramelizing onions). Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or in the microwave for quick servings. Meatloaf can also be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap tightly and thaw overnight before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Turkey Meatloaf – Swap ground beef for ground turkey and lighten up the recipe.
Cheese-Stuffed – Add a layer of Gruyère inside the meatloaf for melty centers.
Mushroom-Onion Upgrade – Add sautéed mushrooms for more depth and texture.
Bacon-Wrapped – Wrap the loaf in bacon before baking for extra smokiness.
Herb Lovers’ Version – Add rosemary and parsley for a more fragrant loaf.
Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Mini Loaves – Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
FAQs
Can I use a mix of meats?
Yes, ground beef, pork, and veal make the meatloaf even more flavorful.
Do I need to caramelize the onions fully?
Yes, this step is key to achieving authentic French onion flavor.
What cheese works best?
Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss or provolone also melt beautifully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the meatloaf and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad are perfect accompaniments.
Can I skip the gravy?
Yes, but the onion gravy adds richness and ties the flavors together.
Why is my meatloaf dry?
Overmixing or overbaking can dry it out. Mix gently and bake just until done.
Can I freeze it unbaked?
Yes, shape and freeze, then thaw overnight before baking.
How do I know when it’s cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Can I use pre-made onion soup mix?
You can, but caramelized fresh onions give a much richer flavor.
Conclusion
French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful twist on a classic family favorite. With caramelized onions, melty cheese, and rich onion gravy, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something elegant and satisfying. Perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is hearty, customizable, and sure to become a repeat favorite at your table.
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