Introduction

French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, packed with rich caramelized onions and melty cheese. This savory dish combines the hearty flavors of a traditional meatloaf with the sweet depth of French onion soup ingredients, perfect for a satisfying family meal.

A close-up view of a cooked meatloaf resting on a white plate, cut on one side showing its juicy and crumbly brown inside. The meatloaf is topped with a layer of soft, translucent cooked onions that have a light golden color, and small green herb sprigs scattered evenly on top adding freshness. The meatloaf sits in a pool of shiny brown sauce that glistens, with some onion pieces submerged in it. The white plate contrasts with the rich colors of the dish, and the background features a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (or turkey for a lean option)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
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

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the sliced onions by cooking them in olive oil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and soft.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, egg, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and the cooled caramelized onions. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into a loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or place it into a loaf pan for a neater appearance.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the meatloaf for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 5: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing to help it hold together and enhance the flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor and texture.
Adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a packet of onion soup mix can deepen the savory taste.
Top with extra cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.
Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

A thick, brown ground meat loaf sits in the center of a white plate, topped with a thick layer of translucent, cooked onion slices that have a shiny, glazed look. Fresh green thyme sprigs are evenly scattered on top of the onions, adding a touch of color and texture. The meatloaf is soaked in a rich brown sauce that pools on the white plate around it. The white marbled surface beneath the plate adds a light, elegant background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make French Onion Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it ahead, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly to keep it fresh.

What cheese works best in this meatloaf?

Swiss and Gruyere cheeses melt well and complement the onion flavor nicely, but you can use any mild melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar if those aren’t available.

French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 141 reviews

This French Onion Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food, featuring caramelized onions mixed into a savory ground beef loaf with Swiss or Gruyere cheese. The rich, sweet onions and subtle herbs give this meatloaf a delicious depth, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Author: Sophie
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (or ground turkey for a lean option)
2 large onions, thinly sliced
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: 1 packet onion soup mix for extra flavor

Instructions

Prepare Onions: Thinly slice two large onions carefully. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Caramelize Onions: Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook them slowly for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and sweetly caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, egg, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional onion soup mix. Add the cooled caramelized onions. Gently mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Shape Meatloaf: Transfer the meat mixture to a lined baking sheet or a loaf pan. Shape it into a loaf form, ensuring it is compact and even in thickness to cook uniformly.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring the meat is safely cooked through.
Rest and Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and keeps the meatloaf moist. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious French Onion Meatloaf.