French Onion Meatloaf

Transform your classic meatloaf into a gourmet dish with this French Onion Meatloaf recipe. Stuffed with gooey Swiss cheese and topped with caramelized onions in a rich beef broth sauce, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a savory twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy Center: A surprise filling of melted Swiss cheese elevates the meatloaf to indulgent new heights.
• Rich Onion Topping: Caramelized onions and a beefy sauce bring deep, savory flavors.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps for a dinner that feels fancy but fits a weeknight.

Ingredients for French Onion Meatloaf

For the Meatloaf:

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

For the Topping:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a greased baking dish.

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatloaf tender.

3. Stuff the Meatloaf with Cheese

1. On a sheet of parchment paper, flatten the meat mixture into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese along the center.
3. Roll the meat up tightly into a loaf, ensuring the cheese is sealed inside. Place the loaf seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

4. Bake the Meatloaf

• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).

5. Caramelize the Onions

1. While the meatloaf bakes, heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until they are soft and golden brown.

6. Make the Sauce

1. Pour beef broth into the skillet with the onions.
2. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. For a thicker sauce, whisk in 1 tbsp flour and cook for another 2 minutes.

7. Assemble the Dish

1. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Pour the caramelized onion sauce over the top of the meatloaf.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

• With Sides: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered green beans for a complete meal.
• As Leftovers: Transform slices into hearty sandwiches or serve alongside a simple salad for lunch.

Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf

• Use Fresh Onions: Yellow onions caramelize beautifully, delivering the sweet-savory flavor this dish needs.
• Don’t Overmix the Meat: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Allowing it to rest locks in juices, making every slice tender and flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, Gruyère or provolone are excellent substitutes for Swiss cheese.

What’s the best ground meat for this recipe?
Ground beef is ideal, but you can also use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooked and cooled meatloaf tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion: A Comfort Food Classic with a Gourmet Twist

This French Onion Meatloaf is the ultimate blend of homestyle comfort and elevated flavors. The caramelized onion topping paired with the gooey cheese filling transforms a classic meatloaf into an unforgettable dinner.

Try this recipe tonight and wow your family with its irresistible taste!