This French Onion Meatloaf is a tasty twist on the classic dish! It’s packed with flavorful onions and topped with a delicious glaze that makes it extra special.
Every bite is a comforting hug! I love to serve it with mashed potatoes for the ultimate cozy dinner. Trust me, leftovers (if there are any!) make amazing sandwiches! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Onions: These onions are best for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, you can use white or red onions, but keep in mind that they may have a sharper taste.
Ground Beef: I recommend 80% lean ground beef for a juicy meatloaf. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can work well, just add a bit more moisture.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs create a light, fluffy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers will work, but the texture may be denser.
Gruyère Cheese: This cheese adds a nutty flavor. If you can’t find it, Swiss cheese is a good alternative. Cheddar also works if you prefer something sharper, but it will change the flavor profile.
How Do You Perfectly Caramelize Onions?
Caramelizing onions is key to this recipe, bringing out their natural sweetness. Here’s how to get it right:
- Cook the onions low and slow over medium-low heat. This takes patience!
- Add a bit of sugar and salt. The sugar helps with browning, while the salt draws out moisture.
- Stir frequently and if they stick, add a little water or olive oil.
- Cook for about 30-40 minutes until they’re deep golden brown and soft.
Remember, the more time you give them, the better the flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Shape and Bake Meatloaf?
To get the perfect meatloaf shape and bake it evenly:
- Use a loaf pan—this helps the meatloaf hold its shape. A lined pan makes for easy cleanup.
- Press the meat mixture into the pan firmly but not too hard to avoid a dense texture.
- Bake on a baking sheet to catch any drips. This makes cleanup easier and ensures even cooking.
- Let the meatloaf rest after baking to keep the juices in. Ten minutes is ideal!
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious, juicy meatloaf every time!
How to Make French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning onions if needed)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this dish is about 1 hour and 10 minutes. You’ll need around 30-40 minutes for caramelizing the onions, and 50 minutes to bake the meatloaf, plus some resting time before serving. It’s a worthwhile endeavor for a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, along with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Cook these onions, stirring frequently, for about 30-40 minutes, until they’re deeply caramelized and soft. If they begin to stick, just add a splash of water or a bit of olive oil. Finally, sprinkle in the minced garlic during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Once they’re done, remove from heat and allow to cool a little.
2. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, whole milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Add half of the caramelized onions (set aside the rest for later). Gently mix until everything is combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Assemble the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into your prepared loaf pan and press it down evenly to shape it. Next, spread the reserved caramelized onions evenly over the top of the meatloaf for added flavor.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place your loaf pan on a baking sheet to catch any drippings, then bake for about 50 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
6. Add the Cheese Topping:
When the meatloaf is ready, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese all over the onions. Put it back in the oven and broil or bake on high heat for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7. Rest and Serve:
After baking, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period keeps it juicy. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious meatloaf with some mashed potatoes or a refreshing side salad!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic for meatloaf, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require a bit more moisture, so consider adding an extra splash of milk or some grated vegetables.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are also gluten-free.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use the microwave for quicker reheating.
Can I Prepare This Meatloaf in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it in the loaf pan a day ahead. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes of baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
