Oh, French Onion Meatloaf—where do I begin? This dish has a way of turning any evening into something special. I’ll never forget the first time I made it. My family was expecting the usual meatloaf, but when I sliced into it and that melty cheese with caramelized onions came spilling out, they were speechless! Safe to say, it’s been a household favorite ever since.
There’s just something magical about the comforting richness of meatloaf combined with the savory, slightly sweet flavors of French onion soup. It’s like a cozy restaurant experience you can enjoy without leaving your kitchen. So let’s get into it—this might just become your new favorite comfort food too!
What Makes French Onion Meatloaf So Delicious?
Ground Beef: The heart of the dish. I like using a mix of lean and slightly fatty beef for a juicy, flavorful result.
Onions: Caramelized to perfection, these bring a sweet and savory depth to every bite. Sweet or yellow onions both work well.
Beef Broth: This adds extra richness to the meat mixture—so much better than using plain water.
Breadcrumbs: They keep the loaf together and soak up all those wonderful juices. Italian-seasoned or plain both work great.
Egg: Just one does the trick to bind everything together.
French Onion Soup Mix: This is the flavor powerhouse! A simple addition that makes a big impact.
Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss melts beautifully and adds that signature French onion taste.
Fresh Parsley: A final touch of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
Is It a Healthier Comfort Food?
Absolutely—especially with a few tweaks:
- Lean Ground Beef: Keeps it hearty but less greasy.
- Onions: Loaded with antioxidants and fiber.
- Cheese: Use in moderation for flavor without overindulgence.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies, and you’ve got yourself a balanced, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (a blend of lean and fatty is ideal)
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian)
- 1 large egg
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Yields: 4–6 servings
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Caramelize the onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15–20 minutes until deeply golden and fragrant.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, most of the caramelized onions (save a little for topping), beef broth, breadcrumbs, egg, and soup mix.
- Form and fill: Shape the mixture into a loaf and place on a greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Create a small well in the center and fill with half the cheese.
- Top it off: Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top and finish with the reserved caramelized onions.
- Bake: Bake for 1 hour or until internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C).
- Rest: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step locks in the juices.
Serving Tips:
Serve your French Onion Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables. A drizzle of pan gravy and a glass of red wine take it to the next level.
This dish is perfect for Sunday dinners, cold-weather cravings, or anytime you need a little comfort on your plate. Try it out and let me know—did your family fall in love with it like mine did?