Description
This French Onion Meatloaf recipe combines the rich, caramelized flavors of onions with tender ground beef to create a savory, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Enhanced with Swiss or Gruyere cheese and seasoned with thyme and garlic powder, this meatloaf offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey for a lean option)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- ½ cup shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Onion soup mix for extra flavor
Caramelized Onions
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- Olive oil, for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare Onions: Thinly slice 2 large onions to prepare for caramelizing, which adds a deep, sweet flavor to the meatloaf.
- Caramelize Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn a golden brown color. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, egg, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and the cooled caramelized onions. Optionally, add onion soup mix for an extra depth of flavor. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
- Shape Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet or transfer it to a loaf pan for even cooking.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish ready to be enjoyed.
Notes
- For a leaner version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need the recipe to be gluten-free.
- Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing helps keep it moist and prevents crumbling.
- Add onion soup mix sparingly to avoid overpowering the natural caramelized onion flavor.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking.
