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French onion meatloaf

French Onion Meatloaf

If you love meatloaf but want to try a new twist that takes it to the next level, this recipe is for you. The combination of savory ground beef, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese makes every bite an explosion of flavor.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, French
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Loaf pan or baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Sharp Knife

Ingredients
  

For the Caramelized Onions:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 large onions thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef 80/20 blend for juiciness
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • 1/2 of the caramelized onions from above

For the French Onion Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar

For Topping:

  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • Remaining caramelized onions

Instructions
 

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  • Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and golden brown.
  • Stir in the dried thyme, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes until most of the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Fold in 1/2 of the caramelized onions and the shredded cheese. Mix until just combined—do not overmix to keep the meatloaf tender.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

  • Shape the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the prepared pan or baking sheet.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the glaze ingredients (ketchup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar).
  • Brush half of the glaze over the meatloaf.
  • Bake for 45 minutes.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Finish Baking

  • Remove the meatloaf from the oven and top with the remaining caramelized onions and shredded cheese.
  • Return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Nutritional Value (Per Serving, Approximate):

  • Calories: 450-500 kcal
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 6g
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Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Keyword French oinion meatloaf, homemade meatloaf recipe