There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of French Onion Meatloaf baking in the oven. This twist on the classic meatloaf recipe features savory caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a blend of herbs that take the flavor to the next level. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or even a small gathering with friends.
I discovered this recipe during one of my experiments to combine two of my favorite dishes: meatloaf and French onion soup. The result? A juicy, flavorful meatloaf that has become an instant family favorite. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible.
Why You'll Love This French Onion Meatloaf
Get ready to add this French Onion Meatloaf to your list of must-make dinners. It’s a crowd-pleaser with an irresistible combination of flavors that’ll make everyone ask for seconds.
First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes gourmet. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof.
The flavor is unbeatable. The sweet, caramelized onions combined with gooey melted cheese and savory ground beef create a depth of flavor you won’t find in traditional meatloaf.
It’s perfect for meal prep! Make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and reheat for a quick, delicious dinner on busy weeknights.
Lastly, it’s highly customizable. Whether you want to use turkey instead of beef or add in some extra veggies, this recipe adapts beautifully to suit your preferences.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this French Onion Meatloaf lies in its rich, flavorful ingredients. Each one has been carefully chosen to create a perfectly balanced dish.
Ground beef is the star of the show. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Caramelized onions are the highlight here. They add a touch of sweetness and a deep, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef. Take your time to cook the onions low and slow – it’s worth it!
Gruyère cheese melts beautifully and enhances the French onion flavors. If Gruyère isn’t available, Swiss cheese or even mozzarella are great substitutes.
Breadcrumbs and eggs act as binders, keeping the meatloaf moist and helping it hold its shape. Panko breadcrumbs give a slightly lighter texture, but any type works well.
For added seasoning, a combination of thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Fresh thyme is ideal, but dried works in a pinch.
How To Make This French Onion Meatloaf

Creating this delicious French Onion Meatloaf is simpler than you might think. Here’s how to bring it all together:
Start by caramelizing the onions. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and jammy. This step can take 20-30 minutes but is key for the flavor.
While the onions cook, prepare the meatloaf mixture. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined – overmixing can make the meatloaf dense.
Once the onions are done, reserve a small portion for topping and fold the rest into the meat mixture. Layer half the meatloaf mixture into a loaf pan, then add a layer of shredded Gruyère cheese in the middle. Top with the remaining meat mixture and smooth the surface.
Bake the meatloaf in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 50-60 minutes. In the last 10 minutes, add the reserved caramelized onions and extra cheese on top for a gorgeous, bubbly finish.
Let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into perfect portions.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this French Onion Meatloaf stores beautifully.
For short-term storage, place slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven, so dinner is ready in minutes.
For longer storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
If you prefer to freeze individual slices, wrap them separately and store them in a freezer-safe container. This method is great for grabbing single servings as needed.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative with it!
Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The flavors remain just as delicious.
If you’re a fan of veggies, mix in finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrients and texture.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs.
Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on the classic.
Add a bit of heat by stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Whether you stick to the recipe or put your spin on it, this French Onion Meatloaf is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it tonight, and watch it disappear from the plate!
PrintFrench Onion Meatloaf Recipe
Discover the ultimate French Onion Meatloaf recipe with caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and rich flavors. Perfect for a satisfying dinner!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup caramelized onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, French onion soup mix, egg, and milk. Mix until well blended.
- Spread half of the meat mixture into a greased loaf pan.
- Layer caramelized onions and shredded cheese on top.
- Cover with the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (¼ of loaf)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
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