Why Make This Recipe
French Onion Meatloaf is a delicious twist on the classic meatloaf. It combines the savory flavors of caramelized onions with ground beef, adding a rich and comforting taste. If you love the taste of French onion soup, you’ll surely enjoy this hearty dish. It’s cozy, easy to make, and perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, the melted cheese on top makes it even more irresistible!
How to Make French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup caramelized onions
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as Swiss or Gruyère)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or gravy for topping
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, egg, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a meatloaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- If desired, pour beef broth or gravy over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve French Onion Meatloaf
Serve the French Onion Meatloaf hot, sliced into thick pieces. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad. You can also drizzle extra gravy or beef broth over the slices for added flavor. This dish is great for leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep or lunches the next day.
How to Store French Onion Meatloaf
Store any leftover French Onion Meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatloaf for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer.
Tips to Make French Onion Meatloaf
- Make sure to use well-caramelized onions for the best flavor; they should be sweet and soft.
- For added moisture, you can mix in a little Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard.
- Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Top the meatloaf with your favorite cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
Variation
You can add spices or herbs to your taste, such as oregano or parsley. For a little kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes. You can also mix in chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a short while before cooking.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked rice as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. You can also cut into it to check that it is no longer pink.
French Onion Meatloaf
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Carnivore
Description
A delicious twist on classic meatloaf, combining savory caramelized onions and ground beef for a rich taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup caramelized onions
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (such as Swiss or Gruyère)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or gravy for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, egg, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a meatloaf pan or shape into a loaf on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
- If desired, pour beef broth or gravy over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use well-caramelized onions for the best flavor. For added moisture, mix in Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American