Description
This Savory French Onion Meatloaf combines the comforting heartiness of meatloaf with the rich, sweet flavors of French onion soup. Topped with gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that warms the soul and delights the palate.
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 2 pounds (or turkey for a lean option)
- Caramelized Onions: 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (or gluten-free alternative)
- Shredded Cheese: ½ cup (Swiss or Gruyere)
- Egg: 1 large
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Optional: Onion soup mix for extra flavor
Instructions
- Begin by caramelizing your onions. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a rich golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning; if they start to stick, reduce the heat.
- While the onions are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it's hot and ready by the time your meatloaf is assembled.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, ½ cup of shredded cheese, and 1 large egg. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the onions are caramelized and cooled slightly, add them to the meat mixture. Use your hands to mix gently until everything is just combined — be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Make sure it’s even on all sides for even cooking.
- Insert the meatloaf into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) — use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
- Once cooked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist slice.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 50-60 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Keywords: One common mistake is overmixing the meatloaf mixture. This can lead to a dense texture, so mix just until combined for the best outcome. You can also add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the meat mixture for extra depth.