French Onion Meatloaf: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the savory richness of French onion soup with the classic heartiness of meatloaf. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this recipe will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds!

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 lb (450g) ground pork

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup milk

2 eggs

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (reserve some for topping)


For the French Onion Sauce:

2 tbsp butter

2 large onions, thinly sliced

1 tsp sugar

2 cups beef broth

1 tbsp flour

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1/4 cup red wine (optional)

Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish


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Instructions

1. Prepare the French Onion Sauce:

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Add sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden and caramelized.

Sprinkle in the flour and stir for 1-2 minutes.

Gradually add beef broth and red wine (if using), stirring until the sauce thickens. Add Worcestershire sauce and simmer for another 5 minutes. Set aside.


2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Fold in half of the shredded Gruyère cheese.


3. Shape and Bake:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper. Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared sheet/pan.

Bake for 30 minutes.


4. Add Toppings:

Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Pour the caramelized onion sauce over the top, and sprinkle the remaining Gruyère cheese.

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.


5. Garnish and Serve:

Let the meatloaf rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve with roasted potatoes or a side salad.


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Why This Recipe Works:

French Onion Meatloaf marries the deep, caramelized flavor of onions with the tender, cheesy texture of meatloaf. The Gruyère cheese adds a rich, nutty element, while the beef broth sauce keeps everything moist and flavorful. Whether you're a fan of traditional meatloaf or looking for something new, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.