Savory French Onion Meatloaf Recipe for Cozy Dinners

French Onion Meatloaf is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug, with its rich flavors and comforting aroma wafting through your home. Imagine biting into a slice that’s packed with savory onions and gooey cheese, making every mouthful a delightful experience. This isn’t just any meatloaf; it’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, evoking family dinners and cozy evenings spent together.

Picture this: you walk into your kitchen after a long day, and the smell of caramelized onions fills the air. Instantly, you can’t help but smile and feel at home. Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a casual Sunday dinner with friends, this French Onion Meatloaf promises to deliver an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for French Onion Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a juicy texture without too much grease.
• Caramelized Onions: Slowly cook onions until golden brown; they add sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatloaf together.
• Eggs: One or two eggs act as a binder, holding everything together perfectly.
• Shredded Cheese: Gruyere or Swiss cheese brings that gooey goodness that makes each bite unforgettable.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A splash adds umami richness that elevates the whole dish.

For the Topping:

• French Fried Onions: Sprinkle on top before baking for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make French Onion Meatloaf

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramelized Onions

In a skillet over medium heat, melt some butter and add thinly sliced onions. Stir occasionally until they turn golden brown—about 15-20 minutes—bringing out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions (save some for topping), breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined; your hands are your best tools here!

Step 4: Shape Your Meatloaf

Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Shape it into a loaf form—think of it like crafting edible art—then sprinkle shredded cheese on top for that melty goodness.

Step 5: Bake Time

Place your meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes until cooked through. If desired, add more cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.

Step 6: Add Crunchy Topping

Remove from oven and sprinkle those crispy French fried onions over the top. Return to oven for an additional five minutes just to crisp them up nicely.

Slice it up and serve! This hearty meatloaf pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

And there you have it—the perfect blend of flavors in one delightful dish! Enjoy every bite of your French Onion Meatloaf while basking in culinary glory as friends and family rave about your cooking skills!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by caramelizing the onions to unlock their sweetness, then mix in ground beef and seasonings. Shape your meatloaf, bake it until golden, and finish with a cheese topping for a gooey finish. Timing is key for flawless results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up your French Onion Meatloaf by adding minced garlic or swapping out breadcrumbs for crushed crackers. You could even throw in some grated cheese into the mix for extra richness!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, wrap your meatloaf tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.

It was during a family gathering when my cousin declared this French Onion Meatloaf as “the best thing since sliced bread.” Watching everyone go back for seconds (and thirds) made all those hours in the kitchen worth it!

FAQs:

What is French Onion Meatloaf?

French Onion Meatloaf is a flavorful twist on traditional meatloaf, incorporating the rich taste of French onion soup. This dish typically combines ground beef, onions, and seasonings with a delicious glaze. The caramelized onions add depth and sweetness, making it a comforting and hearty meal that pairs well with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad.

How do I store leftovers of French Onion Meatloaf?

To store leftovers of French Onion Meatloaf, first allow it to cool completely. Wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to three months.

Can I make French Onion Meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can make French Onion Meatloaf ahead of time. Prepare the meat mixture and shape it into a loaf. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked meatloaf; just ensure it’s well-wrapped. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake according to your recipe instructions.

What sides go well with French Onion Meatloaf?

French Onion Meatloaf pairs wonderfully with various sides. Classic choices include creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the meatloaf. You could also serve it with buttery garlic bread or steamed green beans for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion for French Onion Meatloaf:

In summary, French Onion Meatloaf offers a unique take on a classic comfort food, blending savory flavors that elevate any dinner table. With easy preparation methods and versatile sides, this dish makes an excellent choice for family meals or gatherings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients to customize your meatloaf experience! Enjoy every bite of this delicious comfort food favorite.

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French Onion Meatloaf

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French Onion Meatloaf is a delicious comfort food that combines the classic flavors of savory ground beef, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey cheese. With its rich aroma filling your kitchen, this hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Each slice offers a delightful burst of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy to prepare and visually appealing, this meatloaf is sure to become a staple in your home.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 cup caramelized onions (about 2 medium onions)
• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup French fried onions (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add thinly sliced onions. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, caramelized onions (reserve some for topping), breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Shape the mixture into a loaf in the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes until cooked through. In the last few minutes of baking, add more cheese if desired.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle French fried onions on top; bake for an additional five minutes.
7. Let it rest before slicing and serve warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (120g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added richness, mix grated cheese into the meatloaf mixture. Use crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs for a different texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for longer storage.