There’s something so comforting about a meatloaf fresh out of the oven. But let me tell you, this isn’t your average meatloaf—this is Savory French Onion Meatloaf, and it’s packed with flavor! Imagine caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and juicy beef all coming together in one delicious dish. It’s the perfect combination of savory goodness and cheesy delight. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a household favorite!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This meatloaf is anything but boring! With layers of caramelized onions and cheese, it’s savory, rich, and oh-so-satisfying. The thyme and garlic give it a cozy depth of flavor, while the gooey cheese adds a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Plus, the smell when this is baking? Incredible!
Reasons to Love This Recipe:
- Full of Flavor: The caramelized onions and Gruyère add a deep, savory richness.
- Perfect Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy, and hearty—perfect for chilly nights or a comforting meal.
- Versatile and Easy: You can customize it with different herbs or cheese and it’s simple to prepare!
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this cheesy and savory twist on a classic.
The Taste
Imagine taking a bite of juicy, tender meatloaf, layered with sweet caramelized onions and topped with melted, bubbly cheese. It’s savory, slightly sweet from the onions, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness. It’s a cozy, indulgent meal that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a crisp side salad.
Benefits of This Recipe
- High in Protein: This meatloaf is packed with protein from the beef and cheese, making it a hearty meal that will keep you full.
- Great for Leftovers: It stores well and makes for a delicious meal the next day—simply reheat!
- Customizable: Use your favorite cheese or herbs to make this dish your own.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create this savory masterpiece:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Loaf pan
- Oven (preheated to 375°F / 190°C)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s walk through the simple steps to bring this savory delight to life:
1. Caramelize the Onions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are soft and golden brown. The secret here is patience—let them cook low and slow for the best flavor!
- Once caramelized, remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, ½ cup of the shredded cheese, and half of the caramelized onions.
- Mix everything thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
3. Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Pour the beef broth over the top to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes.
4. Add the Toppings
- After 40-45 minutes, remove the meatloaf from the oven.
- Top it with the remaining caramelized onions and shredded cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Rest and Serve
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it stay juicy and easier to slice.
- Serve it up with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
What to Serve with French Onion Meatloaf
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes pair perfectly with this savory meatloaf.
- Roasted Vegetables: Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans for a complete, balanced meal.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up all the delicious juices from the meatloaf.
Tips for the Best Meatloaf
- Caramelize Onions Properly: Take your time when caramelizing the onions for maximum flavor.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and adds a richer flavor.
- Let it Rest: Don’t skip the resting time after it’s out of the oven; it helps the meatloaf hold its shape.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Wrap slices individually for easy reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm, or microwave individual slices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Gruyère and Swiss are classic options, but mozzarella, cheddar, or even provolone would work well too.
How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in the loaf pan, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 32g
Conclusion
This Savory French Onion Meatloaf with Caramelized Onions is the comfort food you didn’t know you needed. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of flavor—a true crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Hungry for more recipes like this? Check out our other favorites:
- Classic Beef Stroganoff
- Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie
- French Onion Soup Gratinée
If you try this recipe, be sure to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest. I’d love to see your creations!
