This French Onion Meatloaf is a cozy twist on the classic! It’s packed with flavor from caramelized onions and topped with a delicious glaze that keeps it juicy.
Honestly, who doesn’t love meatloaf? It’s like a big, warm hug on a plate! I enjoy serving mine with some mashed potatoes and a side of green beans for a comforting meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you could use sweet onions, like Vidalia, instead. I’ve found they give a lovely flavor too!
Ground Beef & Pork: Beef is great, but adding pork brings extra moisture and flavor. If you’re going for a lighter option, lean ground turkey works well too!
Panko Breadcrumbs: They create a lighter texture. If unavailable, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but know that panko adds a crunch that I really love.
Gruyere Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and offers a nutty flavor. Swiss cheese is a fine alternative, but if you need a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese shreds!
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions may seem tricky, but it really just takes patience. You want them nice and brown, bringing out that sweet goodness. Here are tips to get it right:
- Start with medium heat and avoid rushing. If the heat is too high, the onions can burn.
- Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly. Don’t skip those last 5 minutes of adding garlic and sugar; they give an amazing flavor boost!
- Set aside once they’re deep golden brown. This step adds an incredible depth of flavor to your meatloaf.
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork (optional for juiciness)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Topping:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious French Onion Meatloaf takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 60-70 minutes to bake. With a little patience while caramelizing the onions, you’ll be rewarded with a cozy and hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply browned and caramelized, about 30-40 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, sugar, and thyme during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the meatloaf mixture.
3. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork (if using). Add the breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, remaining salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix it, or your meatloaf might turn out dense.
4. Assemble Meatloaf:
Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place half of the meat mixture into the pan and press gently to form an even layer. Spread half of the caramelized onions evenly over the meat. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded Gruyere cheese on top of the onions. Add the remaining meat mixture on top, followed by the rest of the caramelized onions. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the meatloaf.
5. Bake:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 60-70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). This ensures it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
6. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, so your slices will hold together beautifully. Once rested, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a delightful touch of color and flavor!
7. Serve:
Slice the meatloaf and serve it hot. It pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, vibrant green beans, or even a crisp salad. Enjoy your rich, savory French Onion Meatloaf with that melty cheese and sweet caramelized onions!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for the Meatloaf?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can work well. Just be aware that they might yield a drier texture, so adding a bit more moisture, like extra milk or some grated vegetables, can help keep it juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf?
To store leftovers, cover the meatloaf tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it! Just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What Should I Do If My Meatloaf Falls Apart When Slicing?
If your meatloaf is crumbling, it may be due to overmixing or not enough binding ingredients. Be sure to mix gently and include enough breadcrumbs and eggs to hold it together. If you encounter this issue, a little extra moisture can help—the next time, consider adding some grated cheese or reducing the size of your breadcrumbs!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble it in the loaf pan, cover it, and bake it the next day. This gives the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully!
