French Onion Meatloaf
A rich and comforting dish, French Onion Meatloaf combines the flavors of caramelized onions and Swiss cheese into a traditional meatloaf for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing, this will give a rich base flavor that enhances the sweetness of the onions.
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced These will caramelize beautifully, adding depth and sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced The aromatic punch of garlic complements the onions perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Brings a savory umami flavor that’s essential to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon thyme Adds an earthy herbal note that balances the richness.
- to taste salt and pepper Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the meatloaf.
For the Meatloaf
- 1.5 pounds ground beef The hearty base of our meatloaf, ensuring a satisfying bite.
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs For binding, these add texture and keep the meatloaf moist.
- 1/2 cup milk To keep the loaf tender and juicy.
- 2 eggs Binding agent that helps in holding everything together.
- 1/2 cup grated Swiss cheese The creamy element that adds richness and flavor.
- 1/4 cup beef broth To impart moisture and additional flavor during baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for about 15-20 minutes until golden-brown. Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper during the last few minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, and eggs. Mix gently but thoroughly.
Assembly
- In a loaf pan, layer half of the meat mixture as the base. Spread half of the caramelized onion mixture on top, followed by half of the grated Swiss cheese. Add the remaining meat mixture, sealing the edges.
- Pour the beef broth over the top of the meatloaf and add the remaining caramelized onions.
Baking
- Bake the meatloaf for about 1 hour or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Caramelizing takes time for optimal sweetness. Use high-quality beef for better texture. Letting the meatloaf rest is crucial to maintain structure.