French Onion Meatloaf

 

French Onion Meatloaf: A Savory Twist on a Classic Comfort Food

Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and full of nostalgic flavor. But if you’re looking to take your traditional meatloaf up a notch, the French Onion Meatloaf is an irresistible upgrade. By infusing the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup directly into the meat and topping it with a savory glaze, this dish transforms a humble classic into a gourmet feast.

Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, French Onion Meatloaf combines all the cozy, hearty goodness you love with a sophisticated twist.

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🧅 What Makes This Meatloaf Special?

The secret is in the French onion soup-inspired ingredients: caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted Swiss cheese meld together to create a deeply flavorful meatloaf that’s moist and tender. Instead of the usual ketchup topping, a tangy French onion glaze adds an extra burst of savory sweetness.

The result? A meatloaf that’s rich, layered, and full of umami.

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🥩 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at the key players:

• Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork) – juicy and flavorful

• Caramelized onions – slow-cooked to bring out natural sweetness

• French onion soup mix or broth – to infuse that signature flavor

• Swiss or Gruyère cheese – melts beautifully inside and on top

• Breadcrumbs and eggs – to bind the meatloaf and keep it moist

• Garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs – for added depth

• French onion glaze – a mix of soup mix, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce spread on top

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👩‍🍳 How to Make French Onion Meatloaf

1. Caramelize onions slowly in butter until golden and sweet.

2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, soup mix, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and seasonings.

3. Press the mixture into a loaf pan or shape it by hand on a baking sheet.

4. Spread a generous layer of shredded Swiss cheese over the top.

5. Mix ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and French onion soup mix to make the glaze, then spread it evenly on the meatloaf.

6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until cooked through and juicy.

7. Let it rest before slicing to keep it tender and moist.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

French Onion Meatloaf pairs perfectly with:

• Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower

• Roasted or steamed green beans or asparagus

• A simple side salad to brighten the plate

• Warm buttered dinner rolls or crusty bread

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💡 Tips & Variations

• For extra cheesiness, add cheese inside the meatloaf for a gooey surprise.

• Swap Swiss for mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer.

• Add sautéed mushrooms for more umami depth.

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

French Onion Meatloaf takes the best parts of a classic favorite and elevates them with rich, caramelized flavors and a cheesy finish. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to impress guests.

Cozy, comforting, and packed with flavor, this meatloaf is sure to become a new family favorite.