Do Share Recipe

French Onion Meatloaf Recipe | Savory, Cheesy, and Delicious

I still remember the first time I made this French Onion Meatloaf Recipe—it instantly became a comfort food favorite in my kitchen. The smell of slowly caramelized onions filled the house and made everyone eager for dinner. When I sliced into the meatloaf and saw the juicy center topped with melted cheese, I knew it was a winner.

This recipe feels cozy, rich, and satisfying without being complicated. Every bite reminds me why I love turning classic flavors into something special. You can also enjoy similar recipes like Spinach and Feta Baked Chicken Recipe for a cheesy, savory twist on baked chicken.

Ingredients Section

2 lbs ground beef (80/20 recommended) – Using beef with some fat keeps the meatloaf juicy and prevents it from drying out.
2 large onions, thinly sliced – Thin slices caramelize evenly and develop a deep, sweet flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds rich aroma and enhances the savory taste.
2 large eggs – Eggs bind the mixture together and help the meatloaf hold its shape.
½ cup breadcrumbs – Breadcrumbs absorb moisture and keep the texture tender; plain or panko works best.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth and boosts overall flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme complements beef and onions with a classic French-style taste.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Season gradually to balance flavors properly.
2 tablespoons butter – Butter adds richness and helps caramelize the onions beautifully.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Prevents the butter from burning while cooking the onions.
1 cup beef broth – Creates a savory onion sauce and keeps the meatloaf moist.
½ cup freshly grated Gruyère cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and delivers authentic French onion flavor. For more baked chicken inspiration, check out Balsamic Baked Chicken Breast with Mozzarella Cheese Recipe.

Note: This recipe serves approximately 6 people.

Variations

This French Onion Meatloaf is easy to customize depending on your preferences or dietary needs.

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or oats for a gluten-free option
Swap Gruyère with Swiss or mozzarella if needed
Add mushrooms to the onion mixture for extra depth
Skip cheese or use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free version

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of how long this recipe takes from start to finish:

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Equipment You Need

Loaf pan – Helps shape and bake the meatloaf evenly
Large skillet – Used for caramelizing onions and making the sauce
Mixing bowl – For combining meat and seasonings
Cheese grater – Fresh cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded
Meat thermometer – Ensures the meatloaf is fully cooked

How to Make French Onion Meatloaf Recipe?

This recipe comes together in a few simple steps that are easy to follow, even for beginners.

Caramelize the Onions

Start by heating butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring often, until they turn soft, golden, and deeply caramelized. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so don’t rush it.

Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, caramelized onions, garlic, eggs, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently using your hands until everything is just combined to avoid a dense texture.

Shape and Bake

Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and press lightly to shape. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Make the Onion Sauce

While the meatloaf bakes, add beef broth to the skillet with the remaining onions. Simmer until the liquid reduces slightly, creating a rich and savory sauce.

Add Cheese and Finish

Remove the meatloaf from the oven and sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese on top. Return it to the oven or broil briefly until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rest and Slice

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices and keeps each slice neat and tender.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, here are a few personal tips that really make a difference:

I always cook the onions low and slow to bring out maximum sweetness
Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing keeps it from falling apart
I taste the onion mixture before adding it to the meat to adjust seasoning
Adding a splash of broth to the meat mixture helps keep it extra juicy

How to Serve French Onion Meatloaf Recipe?

This meatloaf pairs perfectly with classic comfort sides. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered green beans. Spoon extra onion sauce over each slice for added moisture and flavor. For presentation, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional value per serving:

Calories: Approximately 480 kcal
Protein: High in protein from ground beef
Carbohydrates: Moderate, mainly from onions and breadcrumb
Fat: Balanced fat content from beef and cheese

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigerating

Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing

This meatloaf freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices in the oven at 325°F, covered with foil, for 10–15 minutes. This helps prevent the meat from drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting twist on a classic favorite, and here’s why it stands out:

It’s easy to prepare with simple, everyday ingredients
The caramelized onions add deep, rich flavor
It’s family-friendly and perfect for weeknight dinners
Leftovers taste even better the next day
The recipe is flexible and easy to customize

Ben Carraoli