French Onion Meatloaf
French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting and sophisticated dinner combining slow-cooked caramelized onions and juicy ground beef, enhanced with savory herbs and melted cheese. Perfect for weeknights or family dinners, it’s easy to prepare and delivers rich, restaurant-quality flavors that everyone will love.
- Author: Gloria
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 to 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free bread crumbs)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
Optional Toppings
- 2 tbsp ketchup or Dijon mustard for glaze
- Caramelize the Onions: Thinly slice the onions and cook them slowly over low heat in a bit of oil or butter, stirring occasionally until softened and deep golden brown, about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine ground beef, caramelized onions, minced garlic, bread crumbs, egg, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, mixing just until combined to keep the meat tender.
- Shape and Bake: Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape by hand on a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of ketchup or Dijon mustard on top if using, then sprinkle with shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, until cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking before slicing to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful slices.
Notes
- Low and slow onions: Be patient when caramelizing onions to build deep flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Handle the meat gently to keep the meatloaf tender.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley brighten the rich flavors.
- Check internal temperature: Aim for 160°F (71°C) to ensure safe cooking without drying out.
- Let it rest: Rest before slicing prevents juice loss.
- Customize the topping: Try adding caramelized onions on top along with cheese for extra indulgence.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/6 of loaf)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: French Onion Meatloaf, meatloaf, caramelized onions, comfort food, weeknight dinner, family meal, gluten free option