This French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting twist on a classic dish! With the rich flavors of caramelized onions and tasty seasonings, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
The best part? It’s so easy to make! I love serving it with mashed potatoes—it’s the perfect match. Plus, the leftovers make a great sandwich the next day! Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you might try ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind that they can be drier, so you may need to add a little extra moisture.
Onions: Yellow onions are best for caramelizing since they become sweet and flavorful. If you don’t have yellow onions, sweet Vidalia or red onions can work, but they’ll give a slightly different taste.
Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs to keep the flavor classic, but you can opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Add herbs or seasonings to make them more flavorful!
Cheese: Gruyère gives a lovely, creamy melt, but you can use Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or even cheddar if you prefer a sharper flavor. Mixing cheeses can also create a fun flavor profile.
How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions takes time, but it’s worth it for the sweet depth of flavor they bring. Here’s my simple method:
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat before adding the olive oil and butter.
- Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt to help draw out moisture.
- Cook them gently, stirring often for about 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- In the last couple of minutes, stir in the minced garlic for extra flavor, then take them off the heat.
Remember, patience is key! Avoid high heat to prevent the onions from burning; the goal is that slow, sweet caramelization!
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 lbs ground beef (preferably 80/20)
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This French Onion Meatloaf takes about 20 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour to cook. You’ll spend some time caramelizing the onions for rich flavor, and then it all comes together for a delicious meal the whole family will enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. In the last 2 minutes, stir in the minced garlic to enhance the flavor. When done, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mix:
In a large bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for a few minutes until softened. To the soaked breadcrumbs, add the ground beef, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, half of the chopped parsley, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
On a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan, form the meat mixture into a loaf shape. Spread the remaining caramelized onions evenly over the top of the meatloaf to give it that delicious onion flavor.
4. Bake the Meatloaf:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
5. Add Cheese Topping and Broth:
After the initial baking time, remove the meatloaf from the oven. Pour the beef broth around the meatloaf in the baking pan to keep it moist. Top the meatloaf with the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together better! Garnish with any remaining fresh parsley. Serve with the delicious caramelized onion juices spooned over the slices for extra flavor.
Enjoy your rich, savory French Onion Meatloaf paired with creamy mashed potatoes or your favorite roasted vegetables!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef. Just remember that these leaner meats may yield a drier meatloaf, so consider adding a bit more moisture, like an additional tablespoon of milk or an extra egg, for better texture.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can warm them in the microwave or gently in a skillet on the stove to avoid drying out the meatloaf.
Can I Make This Meatloaf in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf (without baking it) and store it uncooked in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just cover it tightly. When ready to bake, add a bit of extra cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Should I Serve with French Onion Meatloaf?
This meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness!
