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French Onion Meatloaf

French Onion Meatloaf


  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)

Description

French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting, savory dish combining the rich, caramelized onions and melted cheese of classic French onion soup with the hearty goodness of a traditional meatloaf. This recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals, and offers layers of deep, gourmet flavors with a tangy glaze and a hidden cheese surprise.


Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Base

  • 1 lb ground beef or beef-pork mix
  • 1 packet French onion soup mix (about 1 oz)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sourdough bread crumbs or regular breadcrumbs
  • Handful fresh parsley, chopped

Onions and Sauté

  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese (plus extra for topping and filling)

Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Optional Fresh Herbs for Garnish

  • Chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Slice the yellow onions thinly. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add the onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized, about 30-40 minutes, being careful not to burn.
  2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef (or beef-pork mix) with French onion soup mix, eggs, breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley. Fold in the caramelized onions gently until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  3. Shape and Fill: On a baking tray or in a loaf pan, form half the meat mixture into a loaf shape. Spread a layer of shredded Gruyere cheese in the center, then cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing it to encase the cheese.
  4. Add the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. Brush this glaze generously over the top of the meatloaf to create a flavorful crust during baking.
  5. Bake and Rest: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf for 55-60 minutes until cooked through and the glaze is glossy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Notes

  • Use fresh yellow onions for sweeter, more complex caramelized flavor.
  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep the meatloaf tender, not dense.
  • Verify internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
  • Let the meatloaf rest after baking to lock in juices and improve texture.
  • Customize glaze sweetness and tanginess according to preference.
  • Gluten-free option: use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French-inspired American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150g)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: French Onion Meatloaf, comfort food, meatloaf recipe, caramelized onions, cheese-stuffed meatloaf, easy weeknight dinner, family-friendly dinner