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French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

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4.3 from 10 reviews

A savory French Onion Meatloaf recipe featuring caramelized onions mixed into the meat and a rich, cheesy topping with Swiss and provolone cheese. This comforting dish is completed with a flavorful French onion sauce made from the reserved caramelized onions, beef broth, and butter, perfect for a hearty family meal.

Ingredients

Meatloaf

  • 3 Tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 2 large onions (thinly sliced)
  • 2 pounds ground beef
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce & Topping

  • 1 Tablespoon flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup Swiss cheese (shredded)
  • 4-5 slices provolone cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the meatloaf.
  2. Caramelize Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until golden and caramelized. Remove half of the onions and set them aside for the sauce.
  3. Prepare Meat Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and the remaining half of the caramelized onions. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat for a tender result.
  4. Shape and Bake Meatloaf: Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish or loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until cooked through.
  5. Make French Onion Sauce: While the meatloaf bakes, return the reserved caramelized onions to the skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in beef broth and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Add Cheese Topping: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Top with shredded Swiss cheese, then layer slices of provolone cheese on top. Return to the oven and broil for 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and serve with the warm French onion sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground pork or veal.
  • Use fresh bread crumbs or panko for a lighter texture in the meatloaf.
  • Be sure to caramelize the onions slowly to bring out their natural sweetness without burning.
  • Resting the meatloaf before slicing helps keep it moist and easier to cut.
  • The broiling step is essential for achieving a golden and bubbly cheese topping; watch closely to avoid burning.