French Onion Meatloaf Recipe: A Savory Twist on a Classic Dish
Let’s talk comfort food. I’m not talking about any old comfort food, I am talking of that dish that wraps you in a towel. What makes a warm hug feel right in the world? For me, that’s always been meatloaf. My grandma used to make it every Sunday, and the smell would fill the entire house. I wanted to add a little spice to that classic recipe. So, I took the flavors of my other favorite comfort food – French Onion Soup and combined them. What is the result?French Onion Meatloaf Recipe. It’s like a regular meatloaf, but so, so much better. What is meatloaf? If you love French onion soup, you’re going to be obsessed with this!
What is French Onion Meatloaf?
What is a classic meatloaf recipe that went on culinary vacation to France? Is it that good? What do you love about meatloaf? What makes French onion a comforting texture? Why is onion soup so irresistible? What is the difference between ketchup glaze and meatloaf? What are some good ways to top onion and cheese with Gruyere? What is your grandma’s meatloaf? Is this a family favourite?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? There are so many reasons why this is so?French Onion Meatloaf RecipeIs the flavor out of this world? You get that savory, beefy base that you expect from a good meatloaf, but then that caramelized sauce that goes with it. What is the flavor of onion that explodes in your mouth? Is it sweet, savory, addictive? The Gruyere cheese on top adds a salty, nutty element that perfectly complements the onions and peppers. I love that this recipe is very easy to make. While it tastes gourmet, it’s actually quite easy to throw together, even on a busy weeknight. Is it easier to make French onion soup? What are some of the best ingredients to use in a recipe? What I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. Can you serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, salad – the possibilities are endless. What are some comfort food recipes?What is the classic chili recipe?, or my Creamy Tomato Soup Recipe.Is this meatloaf a star in itself?
How do I make French Onion Meatloaf?
Quick Overview
This French Onion Meatloaf RecipeHow do you caramelize onions? Then, we mix them with ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. We top the loaf with caramelized onions and plenty of Gruyere cheese, then bake it to 375°F. If you like, you can top it with a little more cheese. Is it a simple process that yields an incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal? Is it easier than you think?
Ingredients Notes
For the Main Meatloaf:
I like using 80/20 for flavor, but you can use leaner if you prefer. Onions: White onions are best for caramelizing, but yellow onions will work in a pinch. Breadcrumbs: I use plain breadcrumbs, but you can use Italian-seasoned for extra flavor. Eggs: Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory umami flavor. Garlic: This is the best meatloaf recipe. Freshly minced is always best! Thyme: Fresh or dried thymes add a lovely herbaceous note. Salt and pepper: To taste!
For the French Onion Topping:
Onions: More yellow onions! Butter: For caramelizing the onions. Beef Broth: What is balsamic vinegar? What are some substitutes for Gruyere cheese?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. I always do this before I start anything else so the oven is ready to go!
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Set aside. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and deeply browned. Remove from the heat and set aside. How long does it take for caramel to caramelize? What is the best way to develop a French onion flavor?
Step 3: Add Broth & Balsamic
Stir in the beef broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook until the liquid has reduced and the onions are thick and glossy, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Mix Meatloaf Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and pepper. Set aside. What are some good thyme substitutes for Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
Step 5: Assemble the Meatloaf
Add half of the caramelized onions to the meat mixture and gently fold them in. How do I make a meatloaf loaf pan? Top with remaining caramelized onions and sprinkle generously with shredded Gruyere cheese. I like to pile on cheese!
Step 6: Bake
In the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the cheese is melted. is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Rest & Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf.
5. What to Serve It With
What is the best way to serve it?
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing thing that you can’t get outFrench Onion MeatloWhat are some of my favorite serving suggestions?
What is a classic dinner?What are the best pairings of mashed potatoes and roasted green beans? What are some of the best ingredients in a meatloaf?
For a Cozy Meal:Serve with a side of creamy polenta and salad. The polenta adds a comforting element, while the salad provides an refreshing contrast.
For a French-Inspired Feast:Pair with a crusty baguette and French Onion Soup (yes, more french onion!). Is it a French onion overload?
For a Weeknight Winner:Serve with a side of steamed broccoli and quinoa salad. What’s a quick and healthy meal that comes together in minutes?
My family loves it when I serve this meatloaf with a side of garlic bread. What are some of the best crispy bread recipes? What are some good filling savory recipes for dinner?
6. Top Tips for Perfecting Your [Recipe Name]
Top Tips for Perfecting Your French Onion Meatloaf
Alright, let’s talk about taking this French Onion Meatloaf Recipe from good to *amazing*. Here are a few of my top tips:
Caramelize Those Onions Right: The key to a great French Onion Meatloaf is properly caramelized onions. Don’t rush the process! Cook them low and slow until they are deeply golden brown and sweet. It’s a labor of love, but it’s worth it!
Don’t Overmix the Meat: Overmixing the meatloaf mixture can result in a tough and dry meatloaf. Gently mix the ingredients until just combined.
Add Moisture: Adding a little bit of beef broth or milk to the meatloaf mixture can help keep it moist and tender.
Use Good Quality Cheese: Gruyere cheese is the traditional choice for French Onion Soup, but you can also use Swiss or Provolone. Just make sure it’s a good quality cheese that melts well.
Let It Rest: Allowing the meatloaf to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more moist and flavorful meatloaf. I learned this trick after years of making it too fast and having it crumble.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different flavors! Add a touch of red wine to the caramelized onions, or try adding some sautéed mushrooms to the meatloaf mixture. The possibilities are endless!
Breadcrumb type: For a finer texture, use breadcrumbs made from sandwich bread, or use panko breadcrumbs for a more rustic texture.
7. Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your French Onion Meatloaf:
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the meatloaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatloaf in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.
Glaze Timing Advice: For best results, add the glaze after you reheat the meatloaf.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
9. Final Thoughts & Conclusion
Final Thoughts
This French Onion Meatloaf Recipe is a game-changer! It’s a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a new weeknight dinner or a show-stopping meal for a special occasion, this meatloaf is sure to impress. If you love French Onion Soup, you absolutely have to try this recipe! And if you’re looking for other delicious recipes, be sure to check out my Slow Cooker Pulled Pork or my Chicken Pot Pie. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe!
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French Onion Meatloaf Recipe: A Savory Twist on a Classic Dish
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lb ground beef preferably 80% lean
- 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or Italian seasoned
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 packet French onion soup mix 1 oz packet
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 0.25 cup ketchup for topping
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, French onion soup mix, milk, Worcestershire sauce, chopped onion, minced garlic, shredded cheese, and pepper.
- Mix all ingredients until well combined, but do not over-mix as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf.
- Spread the ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and juices run clear.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
