If you love French onion soup and classic meatloaf, this French Onion Meatloaf combines the best of both worlds! Imagine a juicy, flavorful meatloaf infused with caramelized onions, gooey melted cheese, and a rich savory glaze—the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist.

This meatloaf is tender, juicy, and packed with umami from the onions, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth, while melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese adds a creamy, indulgent touch. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish will quickly become a household favorite!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

🧅 French Onion Flavor – Sweet and savory caramelized onions add incredible depth.
🧀 Cheesy Goodness – Melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese inside and on top for extra richness.
🍽️ Moist & Juicy – No dry meatloaf here! The beef and onion mixture stays perfectly tender.
🔥 Easy to Make – Simple ingredients but big, bold flavors.
🌟 Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers taste even better the next day!

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Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, helps with caramelization)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

For the Meatloaf:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• ½ cup caramelized onions (from above)

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

For Topping:

• ½ cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
• Remaining caramelized onions

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Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
3. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until absorbed. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Add ½ cup of caramelized onions and ½ cup shredded cheese. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 3: Shape & Bake

1. Shape the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
2. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Spread the glaze evenly over the top.
3. Bake for 40 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese & Final Bake

1. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheese and caramelized onions on top.
2. Return to the oven and bake for 10-15 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Let the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g

(Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredients used.)

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Tips & Tricks for the Best French Onion Meatloaf

✔️ Caramelize the onions slowly – Low and slow is key for deep, rich flavor.
✔️ Don’t overmix the meat – Mix just until combined to keep it tender.
✔️ Use a mix of beef & pork – A blend creates an extra juicy meatloaf.
✔️ Let it rest – Allowing the meatloaf to rest before slicing ensures juiciness.
✔️ Make it ahead – Prepare the meatloaf a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

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Storage & Reheating

🔹 Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
🔹 Freeze: Wrap individual slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
🔹 Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.

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What to Serve with French Onion Meatloaf

🥔 Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect side!
🥦 Roasted Vegetables – Serve with asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans.
🥗 Side Salad – A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens balances the richness.
🍷 Wine Pairing – A bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully.

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Variations & Customizations

🧄 Mushroom French Onion Meatloaf – Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
🌿 Herb-Infused – Mix in fresh parsley, rosemary, or thyme for more flavor.
🔥 Spicy Kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the glaze.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Stuff with more Gruyère or provolone for an ooey-gooey surprise!