French Onion Meatloaf combines the savory richness of classic French onion soup with the hearty, comforting texture of traditional meatloaf. This recipe infuses the sweet, caramelized flavors of onion into a beef base, topped with melted Gruyère cheese to mimic the iconic broiled cheese cap of the beloved soup. Each slice is moist and flavorful, draped with a thick onion gravy that elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary. This dish is a wonderful twist on two comfort food classics, making it an irresistible addition to your culinary repertoire.
The preparation involves cooking onions until they’re perfectly caramelized, integrating them into the meatloaf mix, and then baking to tender perfection. The final broil with Gruyère cheese adds a luxurious, melty finish that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the meatloaf. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy night in or for impressing guests at a dinner party with its blend of simple ingredients and gourmet flair.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Savory: The deep, sweet flavor of caramelized onions combined with savory beef creates a mouthwatering dish.
- Cheesy Delight: The Gruyère cheese topping adds a creamy, nutty flavor that melts beautifully, providing a stunning texture and taste.
- Comforting Meal: Perfect for a satisfying dinner, this meatloaf offers all the comforting elements of a home-cooked meal.
- Visually Impressive: With its golden cheese topping and rich onion gravy, this dish is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions:
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Mix in half of the caramelized onions until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Shape and Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Shape the meat mixture into a loaf in a baking dish or loaf pan.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Make Onion Sauce:
- While the meatloaf bakes, add the remaining caramelized onions and beef broth to the skillet.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes to reduce slightly and thicken into a sauce.
- Broil with Cheese:
- Remove meatloaf from the oven and top with grated Gruyère cheese.
- Broil for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with the French onion sauce spooned over the top.
Tips for Success
- Caramelizing Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions; this develops the deep flavors characteristic of French onion soup.
- Internal Temperature: Ensure the meatloaf reaches the safe internal temperature to guarantee it’s fully cooked but still moist.
- Resting Time: Allow the meatloaf to rest before slicing to keep it juicy and intact.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the cooked meatloaf in slices for easy reheating. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
This French Onion Meatloaf offers a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a gourmet meal with the ease of a traditional comfort food. Its combination of sweet onions, savory beef, and creamy cheese creates a multi-dimensional flavor profile that’s sure to satisfy.
