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A sliced French onion meatloaf topped with caramelized onions and glaze, served on a rustic plate.

French Onion Meatloaf Easy Made Recipe

Craving something hearty? This French Onion Meatloaf is packed with flavor and perfect for dinner!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 22 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine French
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Caramelized Onions:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large onions thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon sugar
  • ¼ cup beef broth
  • For the Meatloaf:
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
  • For the Gravy Optional:
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Caramelize the Onions:
  • In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
  • Stir in beef broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Prepare the Meatloaf:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Mix until just combined.
  • Fold in half of the caramelized onions and 1 cup of the shredded Gruyère cheese into the meat mixture.
  • Shape the mixture into a loaf on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake:
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
  • Remove from oven, top with remaining caramelized onions and ½ cup shredded Gruyère cheese.
  • Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  • Prepare the Gravy (Optional):
  • In a small saucepan, whisk together beef broth, cornstarch, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
  • Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
  • Serve:
  • Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve with gravy drizzled over the top, if desired.

Notes

  • Caramelized Onions – Cook longer (30-40 min) for deeper flavor; add balsamic vinegar at the end.
  • Moisture Boost – Mix ground beef with pork or add milk/sour cream for tenderness.
  • Cheese Layering – Mix half into the meat, top with the rest for a golden crust.
Keyword French Onion Meatloaf