why make this recipe
French Onion Meatloaf combines the classic comfort of meatloaf with the rich flavors of French onion soup. It’s a delicious twist that brings new life to a traditional dish. The combination of caramelized onions and melted cheese makes every bite flavorful and satisfying. This recipe not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
how to make French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 2 cups caramelized onions
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or Swiss)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, grated cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
how to serve French Onion Meatloaf
Serve your French Onion Meatloaf warm, sliced thick and garnished with fresh herbs. It pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with gravy or extra caramelized onions on top for added flavor.
how to store French Onion Meatloaf
To store leftovers, allow the meatloaf to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
tips to make French Onion Meatloaf
- Use freshly caramelized onions for the best flavor. You can caramelize them ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your preference. Adding more cheese will make it even richer!
- Always let the meatloaf rest before slicing; this helps keep it moist and holds it together better.
variation
You can add mushrooms or herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. If you want a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a lighter alternative. Just note that it may be less juicy than beef.
2. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 160°F (70°C).
3. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just shape it and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef Use fresh ground beef for best flavor.
- 2 cups caramelized onions Use freshly made caramelized onions for the best flavor.
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or Swiss) Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese to your preference.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish Use fresh herbs for garnish when serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, grated cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and shape into a loaf.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm, sliced thick.
- Pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad.
- Optional: serve with gravy or extra caramelized onions on top.