French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, blending rich caramelized onions with savory beef and melted cheese. This hearty dish captures the deep, sweet flavors of French onion soup in every bite, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs lean or medium lean ground beef
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour/gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter (for caramelizing onions)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice the onions thinly and sauté them slowly in butter over medium-low heat. Stir often and let them caramelize until golden brown and sweet, about 25-30 minutes. This develops the deep flavor essential for the dish.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the caramelized onions and mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Step 3: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Layer the provolone or Swiss cheese slices over the top, pressing the edges gently to seal some cheese inside if you want a gooey center.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf uncovered for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.

Tips & Variations

• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Try mixing in some fresh parsley into the meat mixture for an added burst of freshness.
• If you want a stronger onion flavor, increase the caramelization time slightly, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave on medium power to avoid drying out.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf a day before and refrigerate it uncovered. Bake when ready or cover it and bake within 24 hours for best texture.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can provide a similar depth of flavor in the meat mixture.

French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 55 reviews

This French Onion Meatloaf combines the rich, sweet flavors of caramelized onions with savory ground beef and melted provolone or Swiss cheese. A comforting, hearty meal perfect for dinner, it brings a delicious twist to classic meatloaf by infusing the depth of French onion soup-inspired taste.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs lean or medium lean ground beef
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour/gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter (for caramelizing onions)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions: Start by slicing the onions thinly and sauté them slowly in butter over medium-low heat. Stir often and allow the onions to caramelize until golden brown and sweet, about 25-30 minutes. This step builds the deep flavor that defines the French onion base.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the caramelized onions and mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated without overworking the meat to keep it tender.
3. Shape and Add Cheese: On a baking sheet or in a loaf pan, shape the meat mixture into a loaf form. Layer slices of provolone or Swiss cheese over the top, then gently press the edges of the meatloaf to seal some cheese inside if desired for a gooey, cheesy center.
4. Bake the Meatloaf: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shaped meatloaf uncovered in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juiciness and enhance flavor.

Notes

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Letting the meatloaf rest after baking helps to keep it moist and easier to slice.
• For a richer flavor, use medium lean beef, but lean beef keeps it healthier.
• Caramelizing onions slowly is crucial for developing the deep, sweet flavor characteristic of French onion dishes.
• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is safely cooked.

Keywords: French Onion Meatloaf, meatloaf recipe, caramelized onions, baked meatloaf, comfort food, easy dinner