French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

Introduction

French Onion Meatloaf takes the classic meatloaf to a whole new level by incorporating the rich, savory flavor of French onion soup. The combination of caramelized onions, beef, and a mix of seasonings creates a deeply flavorful, juicy meatloaf with a slightly sweet, umami-packed edge. Topped with melted cheese and a rich French onion-inspired glaze, this dish is a comforting meal that feels both nostalgic and gourmet.

Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping, this French Onion Meatloaf brings a twist to a classic that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The combination of tender beef and the irresistible taste of French onion soup will make this dish a fast favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love French Onion Meatloaf

• Rich, Savory Flavor: The caramelized onions bring a deep, sweet-savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the richness of the beef. The French onion soup-inspired glaze adds an extra layer of umami that elevates the overall dish.
• Tender and Juicy: The meatloaf remains incredibly moist and juicy, thanks to the combination of finely chopped onions and the flavorful broth added to the mix.
• Comforting and Hearty: French Onion Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food. The melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the rich, savory flavor makes it the perfect meal for cozy family dinners or special gatherings.
• Simple Ingredients: While this meatloaf has an elevated flavor, it’s made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients like ground beef, onions, bread crumbs, and seasonings. It’s a great recipe for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or serving it as the centerpiece of a holiday meal, French Onion Meatloaf fits the bill. It’s a dish that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 15-18g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the French Onion Meatloaf:

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (use plain or seasoned)
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the French Onion Glaze:

• 1 cup French onion soup (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional for topping)

Special Equipment

While making French Onion Meatloaf doesn’t require specialized tools, a few kitchen essentials will ensure the recipe goes smoothly:

1. Large Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is necessary to mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and seasonings.
2. Skillet or Pan: A skillet or sauté pan is needed to caramelize the onions and garlic before adding them to the meat mixture. This step enhances the flavor of the onions and gives them that sweet, savory taste.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that the seasoning and glaze are balanced and provide the right flavors in the final dish.
4. Loaf Pan or Baking Sheet: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works best for shaping and baking the meatloaf. Alternatively, you can shape it freeform on a baking sheet.
5. Oven Thermometer: A thermometer ensures the meatloaf is cooked through and reaches the perfect internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: If you want to avoid sticking and ensure easy cleanup, lining the pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil will help.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Onions

Start by caramelizing the onions. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-12 minutes, or until the onions are soft and golden brown. Be patient during this step, as caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Add the minced garlic to the pan during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to become fragrant but not burn. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the caramelized onions and garlic aside to cool slightly.

2. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the cooled caramelized onions and garlic to the mixture. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until it’s just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatloaf tender.

3. Shape the Meatloaf

Transfer the meat mixture to a loaf pan, pressing it gently to form an even shape. If you prefer a freeform meatloaf, you can shape the mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Make sure the meatloaf is compact but not overly packed, which can cause it to become dense. Smooth the top with a spatula or your hands for an even surface.

4. Prepare the French Onion Glaze

In a small bowl, combine the French onion soup, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Stir well to combine. This mixture will create a savory-sweet glaze that’s the signature flavor of French onion soup, adding richness and depth to the meatloaf.

Pour half of the glaze over the top of the meatloaf, spreading it evenly with a spoon or spatula. This will ensure the meatloaf is coated with the glaze as it bakes.

5. Bake the Meatloaf

Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes at 350°F (175°C). The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. If the glaze begins to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the meatloaf with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

6. Add the Cheese (Optional)

If you’re using cheese, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking. The cheese will melt into the glaze, creating a delicious, gooey layer that enhances the flavor.

7. Rest and Slice

Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meatloaf stays moist and tender. Slice it into thick pieces and serve with additional French onion glaze if desired.

Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, avoid overworking the meat mixture, as this can lead to a dense and tough meatloaf. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Caramelize the Onions Properly: Take your time with the onions. Caramelizing them slowly will develop a deeper, sweeter flavor that makes the dish stand out. Don’t rush this step.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking the meatloaf, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
• Rest the Meatloaf Before Slicing: Allowing the meatloaf to rest after baking will help it retain moisture and prevent it from falling apart when sliced.
• Customize the Glaze: You can adjust the glaze to your liking. For a sweeter version, add more brown sugar. For a tangier glaze, increase the amount of Dijon mustard.

Variations of French Onion Meatloaf

• Vegetarian French Onion Meatloaf: For a meat-free version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein such as lentils, tempeh, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Use vegetable broth in place of the French onion soup for a vegan alternative.
• Cheesy French Onion Meatloaf: For an extra cheesy meatloaf, mix shredded cheese (Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar) into the meat mixture before baking. The cheese will melt throughout the loaf, adding richness and flavor.
• Bacon French Onion Meatloaf: Add cooked and crumbled bacon to the meat mixture for an extra layer of smoky flavor. The bacon pairs beautifully with the caramelized onions and beef.
• Spicy French Onion Meatloaf: For a little heat, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture or glaze. This adds a fiery kick to balance the sweetness of the onions.

Storage and Shelf Life

French Onion Meatloaf is a great make-ahead meal and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Allow the meatloaf to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave or heat the entire loaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You can also freeze French Onion Meatloaf for up to 3 months. Slice the meatloaf and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warm.

Side Dishes and Pairings for French Onion Meatloaf

Pairing French Onion Meatloaf with the right sides can enhance its comforting, savory flavors:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment that complements the rich, savory flavors of the meatloaf.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts provide a nice contrast to the richness of the meatloaf while adding a healthy touch.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the meatloaf and adds freshness to the meal.
• Garlic Bread: Serve the meatloaf with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious French onion glaze.
• Steamed Rice: A simple side of rice can help absorb any extra sauce and provides a neutral base to balance the flavorful meatloaf.

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Conclusion

French Onion Meatloaf is a deliciously comforting dish that elevates the traditional meatloaf by infusing it with the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup. With its tender texture, caramelized onions, and cheesy, umami glaze, this meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad, it’s a satisfying and hearty meal that will keep everyone coming back for more. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors it brings to the table!