French Onion Meatloaf Recipe – A Savory Twist on Classic Meatloaf

If you’re looking for a comforting yet sophisticated twist on the traditional meatloaf, look no further than French Onion Meatloaf. This savory dish combines two beloved flavors—rich, caramelized onions and the heartiness of meatloaf, all topped with a luscious gravy. The addition of Gruyère cheese provides an indulgent layer of flavor, making this dish a true standout for dinner. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a cozy evening with friends, this French Onion Meatloaf will surely impress.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ pound ground pork
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the Onions:

Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20–25 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and fully caramelized. This process brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, which will blend beautifully with the savory flavors of the meatloaf.

2. Prepare the Gravy:

Once the onions are caramelized, it’s time to make the gravy. In the same skillet, sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until it thickens to a sauce-like consistency. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, which adds depth and umami to the gravy. Set the gravy aside while you prepare the meatloaf.

3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly, making sure the ingredients are evenly distributed. The Gruyère cheese will melt beautifully during baking, adding richness and flavor to the meatloaf.

4. Bake the Meatloaf:

Transfer the meatloaf mixture into a loaf pan and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour. The meatloaf should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. This ensures that the meatloaf is cooked all the way through, while still remaining juicy and flavorful.

5. Serve:

After removing the meatloaf from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Slice the meatloaf into hearty portions and serve it with the reserved gravy poured on top for an added layer of richness.

Why Choose French Onion Meatloaf?

French Onion Meatloaf is a comfort food classic that delivers on both taste and texture. The caramelized onions provide a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the savory meat, while the Gruyère cheese gives the dish a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Topped with a thick, savory gravy made from the meat drippings and Worcestershire sauce, this meatloaf becomes a true crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t rush the caramelization process: Taking your time to caramelize the onions will bring out their natural sweetness and deepen the flavor of your dish. Patience is key to getting that perfect golden-brown color.
• Use a meat thermometer: This ensures the meatloaf reaches the correct internal temperature without overcooking or undercooking.
• Serve with sides: French Onion Meatloaf pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad. The gravy is also great served over these sides for extra flavor.

FAQ Section:

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef and pork?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner version of this meatloaf. However, ground turkey may be less flavorful on its own, so you might want to add extra seasoning to compensate.

Q2: Can I freeze French Onion Meatloaf?
Absolutely! French Onion Meatloaf freezes well. After baking, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Q3: What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?
If you don’t have Gruyère cheese, you can substitute with Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or cheddar. Each will provide a different flavor, but all will work well in this dish.

Q4: Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the instructions as usual.

Q5: What should I serve with French Onion Meatloaf?
French Onion Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a side of crispy bread to soak up the gravy. You can also serve it with a light salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion:

French Onion Meatloaf is an upgraded take on a classic dish, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture. With its perfectly caramelized onions, cheesy goodness, and savory gravy, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, French Onion Meatloaf offers a comforting, hearty meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it today and indulge in the irresistible flavors of this delicious meatloaf recipe.

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