French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

This French Onion Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, featuring rich caramelized onions, melted Gruyère cheese, and savory herbs. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe elevates the traditional meatloaf with flavors reminiscent of French onion soup.

What Is French Onion Meatloaf?

French Onion Meatloaf combines the comforting texture of meatloaf with the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese. The dish is layered with herbs, balsamic-infused onions, and topped with Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a decadent finish. It’s easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and savory: Caramelized onions and melted cheese create a flavor-packed dish.
• Family-friendly: A hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
• Easy to make: Straightforward steps and simple ingredients.

Ingredients

For the meatloaf:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup (120 g) breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

For the topping:

• ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Onions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes until golden and caramelized.
3. Stir in balsamic vinegar and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Making the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a loaf pan or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix in half of the caramelized onions.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan or on the baking sheet.

Baking and Topping

1. Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes.
2. Remove from the oven and pour beef broth evenly over the meatloaf.
3. Top with the remaining caramelized onions and shredded cheese.
4. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Resting and Serving

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes to set before slicing.
2. Serve hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic combination.
• Serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Add a side of crusty bread to mop up the delicious beef broth and melted cheese.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until fully heated.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Cheese swap: Substitute Gruyère with mozzarella, cheddar, or a dairy-free alternative.
• Herb mix: Try fresh rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Turkey option: Replace ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.

FAQs

Can I use pre-caramelized onions?

Yes, pre-caramelized onions can save time, but freshly made ones provide the best flavor.

What can I use instead of Gruyère cheese?

Swiss, mozzarella, or even provolone are great substitutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare and shape the meatloaf in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

French Onion Meatloaf brings a gourmet touch to a beloved classic, blending the rich flavors of caramelized onions and melted cheese into every bite. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and share your thoughts or tips below!

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