There's something magical about the combination of savory ground beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese. French Onion Meatloaf takes the beloved comfort food to a whole new level, blending the rich, soulful flavors of French onion soup with the heartiness of a classic meatloaf.

I first discovered this gem of a recipe on a chilly evening, looking for something to warm both the house and our spirits. It quickly became a family favorite, gracing our dinner table at least once a month. Whether you're a fan of French onion soup or just looking to switch up your dinner routine, this dish is a guaranteed winner.

Why You'll Love This French Onion Meatloaf

Get ready to fall head over heels for this comforting and flavorful twist on meatloaf. It's the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or special family dinners.

First off, the flavor is unforgettable. This meatloaf is infused with caramelized onions and topped with gooey melted cheese, giving it that iconic French onion soup taste. It's hearty, savory, and oh-so-satisfying.

It's surprisingly easy to make. While it looks and tastes gourmet, you won't need a culinary degree to pull this off. With a handful of pantry staples and some basic techniques, you'll have this dish on the table in under an hour and a half.

Family-approved and kid-friendly. Even picky eaters can't resist the cheesy topping and tender texture of this meatloaf. Serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Perfect for leftovers. This meatloaf reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

If you're ready to take your meatloaf game to the next level, keep reading for all the details on how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this French Onion Meatloaf lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating that signature taste.

Ground Beef: Use an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner cuts may result in a drier meatloaf.
Caramelized Onions: These are the star of the show. Cooked low and slow, they add a deep, sweet-savory flavor that defines the dish.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend using plain breadcrumbs to bind the meatloaf together while keeping it tender. Panko breadcrumbs also work well.
Gruyère Cheese: Shredded Gruyère is the perfect topping, melting beautifully and complementing the onions with its nutty flavor. If unavailable, Swiss cheese is a great substitute.
Beef Broth: This helps keep the meatloaf moist and enhances the savory, umami flavor profile.
Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of this adds depth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.

Special Equipment: A loaf pan is recommended for shaping and cooking the meatloaf evenly. You’ll also need a large skillet for caramelizing the onions.

How To Make This French Onion Meatloaf

Making French Onion Meatloaf is simpler than you might think, and the results are absolutely worth it. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Prepare the caramelized onions. Start by thinly slicing 3-4 medium onions. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add the onions. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and richly caramelized.

2. Mix the meatloaf ingredients. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, beef broth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and half of the caramelized onions. Season with salt and pepper, then mix gently to combine. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the meatloaf tough.

3. Shape and bake. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the meat mixture to a greased loaf pan, shaping it into an even rectangle. Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

4. Add the cheese topping. Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese on top. Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and enjoy! Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining caramelized onions on top and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: French Onion Meatloaf freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture of the cheese may change slightly.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste or dietary needs.

Swap the protein. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.
Cheese alternatives. If Gruyère isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella, cheddar, or even blue cheese for a bold twist.
Add mushrooms. Sautéed mushrooms make a great addition to the mix, enhancing the umami flavor.
Make it gluten-free. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Spice it up. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Feel free to experiment with flavors and ingredients. This recipe is forgiving and endlessly adaptable!

French Onion Meatloaf is destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation. With its rich flavors, cheesy topping, and easy preparation, it’s a dish the whole family will rave about. Give it a try, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!