French Onion Meatloaf

Instructions for French Onion Meatloaf

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

To bring out the natural sweetness and depth of flavor, start by caramelizing the onions.

• In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and soft. If the onions begin to brown too quickly, lower the heat.
• Once the onions are caramelized, pour in 1 cup of beef broth and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly. Remove the pan from the heat and set the onions aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

While the onions are cooling, prepare the meatloaf mixture.

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
• Once the caramelized onions have cooled enough to handle, add them to the meat mixture. If you’d like to amp up the flavor even more, stir in 1/2 cup of French onion dip at this point.

Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf

• Transfer the meat mixture into a greased or lined baking dish. Shape it into a loaf, making sure the top is slightly flattened. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can also form the meatloaf on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).

Step 5: Add the Cheese

• After the meatloaf has baked for about 40 minutes, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top.
• Return the meatloaf to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Once the cheese is melted and golden, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the meatloaf set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
• Serve your French Onion Meatloaf with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf

1. Don’t Skip the Caramelizing: Caramelizing the onions is essential for unlocking their full flavor. Take your time and make sure they’re golden and tender for maximum sweetness and richness.
2. Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your meatloaf is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer. Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be safe to eat.
3. Customize the Cheese: While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for French onion flavors, you can swap it out for other cheeses like Gruyère, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
4. Make It Ahead: You can make the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
5. Make It a Meal: To create a full meal, serve your French Onion Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a side of buttery green beans.

Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to French Onion Meatloaf

This French Onion Meatloaf is the perfect blend of comforting, savory flavors with a touch of elegance. The caramelized onions and rich beef broth create a deep flavor base that elevates the classic meatloaf into something truly special. Topped with melty Swiss cheese, this dish is the ultimate combination of creamy, crunchy, savory goodness.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty family meal or a dish that’s sure to impress guests, French Onion Meatloaf is a winning recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and just the right amount of indulgent—making it the perfect dish for any occasion!

Try this recipe tonight, and let your taste buds enjoy a comforting twist on a timeless classic!