French Onion Meatloaf: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Name: French Onion Meatloaf
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoon olive oil; 1 eighth teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup unseasoned dried breadcrumbs; 1 cup milk; 2 large onions, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 half teaspoon black pepper; 1 pound ground beef; 2 large eggs; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (for topping)

Introduction to French Onion Meatloaf

Welcome to a delightful culinary experience! French Onion Meatloaf combines the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and the creamy goodness of Gruyère cheese into a classic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. This comforting meatloaf is not only easy to make but also brings an elegant twist to the traditional recipe. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and it fills your home with an irresistible aroma that makes everyone eager to sit down for a hearty meal.

A Personal Story Behind My French Onion Meatloaf Journey

Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday. One of my mother’s most beloved recipes was her classic meatloaf, which she often paired with mashed potatoes and green beans. However, it wasn’t until I discovered the addition of caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese that I truly understood the magic of this dish. The flavors melded together so beautifully, and I knew I had found a way to elevate a childhood favorite into something truly special. This French Onion Meatloaf has since become a staple in my own home, bringing back fond memories while creating new ones with my family.

What Makes This French Onion Meatloaf Recipe Special?

This recipe is unique because it takes the traditional meatloaf and infuses it with the sweet and savory notes of caramelized onions, which adds depth and complexity to each bite. The Gruyère cheese on top creates a bubbly, golden crust that is simply irresistible.

The Full French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
2 lbs yellow onions, thinly sliced
1/8 tsp baking soda
1/2 cup unseasoned dried breadcrumbs
1/2 cup whole or 2% milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 lbs ground beef
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (about 3 oz)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with aluminum foil to make for easy removal later.
In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sliced onions along with the baking soda. This will help caramelize the onions quickly. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Continue cooking the onions until they turn deep golden-brown, which should take around 10-15 minutes more. The rich color will enhance the flavor of your meatloaf.
In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the milk and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps the breadcrumbs absorb moisture and keep the meatloaf tender.

Add the caramelized onions (allow them to cool slightly), minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Combine everything well.
Next, add ground beef and eggs to the bowl. Using your fingers, gently mix the ingredients together, being careful not to overmix to keep the texture light.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan, pressing it down evenly. This ensures that it cooks uniformly.

Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and switch to the broil setting. Sprinkle the reserved caramelized onions and shredded Gruyère cheese on top.
Broil for about 2 minutes, watching carefully until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.

Let the meatloaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes for cleaner slices.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for French Onion Meatloaf

This delicious meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or a fresh side salad. For a twist, consider serving it on a toasted bun as a meatloaf sandwich. You can also mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the meat mixture for added flavor. If you’re looking to make it a bit healthier, you can substitute half of the ground beef with ground turkey or add some finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Meatloaf

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?
Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly.

Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Gruyère adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or even Swiss cheese for different tastes.

What should I serve with meatloaf?
Classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad work perfectly. You can also serve it with a hearty gravy for extra flavor.