If you’re looking for a comforting meal that will please the whole family, look no further than French Onion Meatloaf Delight. This delicious twist on a classic meatloaf is packed with flavor from sweet caramelized onions and rich cheeses. It combines the beloved tastes of French onion soup with the hearty goodness of a meatloaf, making it a standout dish for any dinner.
Why Make This Recipe
French Onion Meatloaf Delight is not just any meatloaf; it brings the warmth and richness of French onion soup into a new form. It’s a great way to satisfy the craving for comfort food while being a bit different from your regular meatloaf. The combination of caramelized onions, savory cheeses, and tender beef creates a mouthwatering experience. Plus, it’s pretty simple to make, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner.
How to Make French Onion Meatloaf Delight
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Directions:
Begin by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions along with a pinch of salt, cooking and stirring frequently until they soften and caramelize for about 25-30 minutes. Occasionally deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth. Once the onions are deeply golden, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Set aside half of the caramelized onions for topping later.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Panko breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, salt, black pepper, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix the ingredients gently until they are just combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain tenderness.
Transfer the meat mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape it into a loaf. Bake it uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until it is fully cooked through.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook it for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the beef broth, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Mozzarella and Gruyère cheeses until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Once the meatloaf has finished baking, remove it from the oven. Top it with the reserved caramelized onions and spoon the cheese sauce over the top. For an extra golden crust, sprinkle additional shredded Gruyère cheese on top. Return the meatloaf to the oven and place it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes until the topping is bubbly and lightly browned.
How to Serve French Onion Meatloaf Delight
Serve this meatloaf warm from the oven. You can slice it and place it on plates with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. The cheese sauce pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, making it perfect for dipping.
How to Store French Onion Meatloaf Delight
To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply slice and warm it in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make French Onion Meatloaf Delight
- Use a good quality ground beef for better flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatloaf mixture to keep it tender.
- Feel free to add more herbs or spices if you want to enhance the flavor.
- For extra richness, you can mix in some grated Parmesan cheese along with the other cheeses.
Variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or fontina, based on your preference.
FAQs
Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time. Shape it and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to a day or freeze it for longer storage.
Can I use regular bread crumbs instead of Panko?
Absolutely! Regular bread crumbs will work, but Panko adds a nice crunch to the meatloaf.
What sides go well with French Onion Meatloaf Delight?
Some great sides include mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad. These will nicely complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
