Description
French Onion Meatloaf: A Twist on Classic Comfort!
Transform your classic meatloaf with the savory, rich flavors of French onion soup! This recipe combines ground beef with caramelized onions and a melty Gruyère topping, delivering a comforting dish that will leave everyone asking for more. Perfect for cozy family dinners, this meatloaf is both hearty and satisfying.
1 lb ground beef (mix of lean and fatty)
2 medium onions, sliced
1/2 cup beef broth
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 packet French onion soup mix
1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Caramelize onions in butter over medium heat for 15-20 mins.
3. Mix beef, onions, breadcrumbs, broth, egg, and soup mix.
4. Shape into a loaf, add cheese, and bake for 1 hour.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 450
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until they are soft, golden brown, and deeply caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beef broth, egg, and the packet of French onion soup mix. Add the slightly cooled caramelized onions, reserving a small handful for the topping.
3. Shape the Loaf: Gently mix the ingredients with your hands until just combined—do not overmix. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet or loaf pan and shape it into a firm, even loaf.
4. Bake and Top: Bake the meatloaf in the preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 50 minutes. Remove it from the oven and carefully top with the shredded Gruyère cheese and the reserved caramelized onions. Return to the oven for the final 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This rich meatloaf pairs beautifully with sides that balance its savory depth. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up the juices. For a lighter contrast, a simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette or roasted green beans are excellent choices. Don’t forget a crusty baguette to enjoy every last bit of the cheesy, oniony topping.
How-to Summary
Create this comforting dish by first caramelizing sliced onions. Mix them with ground beef, breadcrumbs, beef broth, an egg, and French onion soup mix. Shape into a loaf and bake at 350°F for 50 minutes. Top with Gruyère cheese and reserved onions, then bake for 10-15 more minutes until golden and cooked through. Rest before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat? Yes. A mix of ground beef and pork or even ground turkey works well. If using leaner meats like turkey, consider adding an extra tablespoon of broth to keep the meatloaf moist.
What can I substitute for the soup mix? If you prefer to avoid the pre-made mix, combine 1 tablespoon beef bouillon powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of dried thyme.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or in a covered skillet to maintain texture.
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the loaf (without baking) up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking as directed.
Why is my meatloaf dry? The most common causes are overmixing the meat (which makes it tough) or using meat that is too lean. A mix with 15-20% fat and careful, minimal mixing ensures a juicy result.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Meat: This compacts the proteins, leading to a dense, tough texture. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Using Raw Onions: Skipping the caramelization step means missing the essential sweet, deep flavor that defines this dish.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Slicing immediately will cause the juices to run out, leaving a drier meatloaf. Always let it rest.
- Not Checking Temperature: Baking times can vary. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 160°F for perfect doneness.
Conclusion
This French Onion Meatloaf masterfully blends two beloved comfort foods into one show-stopping meal. With its rich, caramelized onion flavor and gooey cheese topping, it’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite. It proves that with a few simple twists, a classic dish can be transformed into something extraordinary. Give this recipe a try for your next cozy dinner—it delivers maximum flavor with straightforward, reliable steps.