This French Onion Meatloaf brings together the comforts of a classic meatloaf and the rich flavors of French onion soup. It’s juicy, loaded with onions, and topped with gooey cheese!
Who can resist a meatloaf that tastes like a warm hug? I love to pair it with mashed potatoes. It’s like a cozy dinner at grandma’s house, and trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you don’t have them, sweet onions like Vidalia can be a great substitute. They’ll give the same lovely flavor!
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the right balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works too. Just be aware that it might not be as juicy.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs help hold the meatloaf together, but if you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Oats can work as a healthy alternative too!
Cheese: Gruyère is fantastic for its melting qualities, but if it’s hard to find, Swiss cheese is a good replacement. You can also mix in some cheddar for a sharper taste.
How Can I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions properly makes your meatloaf truly special. The goal is to develop a deep, rich flavor without burning them. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning. Add olive oil and let it warm up.
- Add the sliced onions and sugar. Sugar helps in the caramelization process.
- Cook gently for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be patient; letting them cook slowly is key!
- Add garlic and thyme during the last 2 minutes to infuse those fragrant flavors.
Let them cool a little before mixing into your meatloaf for the best taste. It’s worth taking the time! 😊
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional for extra richness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious French Onion Meatloaf will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 60-70 minutes to bake. Plus, you’ll want to let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking. So, altogether, you should set aside about 1 hour and 30 minutes for this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot for even cooking. While it heats up, you’ll prepare the caramelized onions, which give the meatloaf its wonderful flavor.
2. Caramelizing the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Add your sliced onions and sprinkle them with sugar. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until they turn deeply caramelized and golden brown. In the final 2 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic and thyme, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
3. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
While the onions are cooling, grab a small bowl and soak the breadcrumbs in the milk for about 10 minutes until they’re nice and soft. This helps keep your meatloaf moist.
4. Mixing Time:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, optional ground pork (for added richness), soaked breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and those delicious caramelized onions (but set aside a few tablespoons for the topping!). Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or your meatloaf may become tough.
5. Shaping the Meatloaf:
Now, transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan or shape it into a loaf on a baking sheet. Use your hands to form it nicely! Spread the reserved caramelized onions evenly over the top of your meatloaf.
6. Cheese It Up:
Next, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese generously over the onions. This will melt into a delicious, gooey topping as it bakes!
7. Baking the Meatloaf:
Place your meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This ensures it’s cooked through and safe to enjoy!
8. Getting a Golden Crust:
If you like a crispy cheese topping, switch your oven to broil and broil your meatloaf for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
9. Rest and Slice:
Once out of the oven, let your meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the juices redistribute, making each slice moist and flavorful.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
After resting, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve your French Onion Meatloaf warm with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Now you have a comforting and hearty French Onion Meatloaf that’s sure to impress! Bon appétit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just keep in mind it may require additional seasoning to enhance flavor since it’s milder than beef. You can also add a bit more Worcestershire sauce for extra moisture and taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
Can I Freeze The Meatloaf?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked meatloaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking as directed. If freezing leftovers, slice the meatloaf before freezing to make reheating easier!
What Can I Serve With This Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables to soak up that delicious flavor!
