French Onion Meatloaf – A Classic Comfort Dish with a Gourmet Twist
If you love the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup and the cozy satisfaction of classic meatloaf, get ready — this recipe combines the best of both worlds in one unforgettable dish. Introducing: French Onion Meatloaf — a juicy, tender loaf infused with caramelized onion goodness, topped with melty cheese, and baked to perfection.
It’s everything you love about comfort food, made just a little fancier.
🧅 Why You’ll Love French Onion Meatloaf
This isn’t your grandma’s meatloaf (though we love that too!). French Onion Meatloaf takes the traditional recipe and elevates it with:
Deeply caramelized onions that add a sweet and savory backbone
Gruyère or Swiss cheese melted on top like the iconic soup
A rich beefy glaze that locks in flavor
Moist, tender texture with perfectly balanced seasoning
It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell amazing and brings everyone to the table — no convincing required.
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this meatloaf masterpiece to life:
For the meatloaf:
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon beef broth or water
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 eggs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan (optional, for richness)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the topping:
1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
1/4 cup French fried onions (optional, for crunch)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
👨🍳 How to Make French Onion Meatloaf
1. Caramelize the Onions
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add sliced onions and cook slow and low for 25–30 minutes, stirring often, until golden and caramelized. Add garlic, thyme, Worcestershire, and beef broth in the last 2 minutes. Let cool slightly.
2. Mix the Meatloaf
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan, half of the caramelized onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overwork it or it’ll get dense.
3. Shape and Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape on a lined baking sheet or press into a loaf pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes.
4. Add the Toppings
Remove meatloaf from oven and top with remaining caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Return to oven for another 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
5. Rest and Serve
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with crispy fried onions and parsley if desired.
🍽️ What to Serve with It
This rich and savory meatloaf pairs perfectly with:
Creamy mashed potatoes
