This French Onion Meatloaf delivers all the rich, comforting flavors of classic French onion soup wrapped inside a tender, juicy meatloaf. Caramelized onions, savory seasonings and melted cheese create a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caramelized onions add incredible depth and sweetness.
Juicy 80/20 ground beef ensures a moist meatloaf every time.
Melty cheese on top gives a golden, irresistible finish.
Simple steps with familiar ingredients.
Excellent leftovers — great for reheating or sandwiches.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or another good melting cheese)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a loaf pan by lightly greasing or lining with parchment.
Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20–30 minutes until deep golden and caramelized. Add the garlic in the last minute. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, eggs, panko, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt and pepper. Fold in two-thirds of the caramelized onions, reserving the rest.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the center reaches 160°F (71°C).
Meanwhile, add the reserved onions and the beef broth to the same skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced and saucy.
After the meatloaf has baked 45 minutes, remove it and sprinkle the cheese over the top. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Spoon the onion sauce over each serving.
Servings and timing
Serves: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Swap cheese: Try Swiss, provolone or cheddar.
Add extra flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the meat mixture.
Gluten-free: Substitute panko with ground oats or almond flour.
Extra depth: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the onions near the end of cooking.
Crispy edges: Shape the meatloaf free-form on a baking sheet instead of using a loaf pan.
Storage/Reheating
Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze slices individually for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 10–15 minutes with a splash of broth, or microwave in short intervals.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
2. What can I use instead of panko?
Regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or ground oats all work.
3. Can I leave out the cheese?
Yes — the loaf will still be delicious without cheese.
4. Why is my meatloaf crumbly?
Too many breadcrumbs or not enough moisture can cause crumbling. Use the recommended measurements.
5. How can I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?
Use 80/20 beef, avoid over-mixing and don’t over-bake.
6. Can I use leaner ground meat?
Yes, but consider adding a splash of broth or olive oil for added moisture.
7. What’s the purpose of the caramelized onions?
They add sweetness, richness and the signature French onion flavor.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes — just use a larger pan or form two loaves and increase cooking time slightly.
9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
10. What side dishes pair well with French Onion Meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complement it perfectly.
Conclusion
This French Onion Meatloaf transforms a classic comfort dish into something truly special with caramelized onions, savory seasonings and a beautifully melted cheesy topping. It’s simple, hearty and satisfying — the perfect centerpiece for a cozy family meal or a make-ahead dinner that tastes even better the next day. Enjoy every flavorful slice!
A comforting twist on classic meatloaf, this French Onion Meatloaf features caramelized onions, savory herbs, and a melty cheese topping for rich, cozy flavor in every bite.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 20 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
2 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or other melting cheese)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line a loaf pan with parchment.
In a skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20–30 minutes until deep golden and caramelized. Add garlic in the final minute of cooking. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, eggs, panko, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Fold in two-thirds of the caramelized onions.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place in the prepared pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
While the meatloaf bakes, add the reserved onions and beef broth to the skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced and saucy.
After 45 minutes of baking, remove the meatloaf and sprinkle the cheese on top. Return to oven for 3–5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes. Slice and spoon onion sauce over each portion before serving.
Notes
Use 80/20 beef for a moist, tender meatloaf.
Reserve enough onion mixture to make a flavorful sauce.
Let meatloaf rest before slicing to retain juices.
Swap Gruyère with Swiss or provolone if preferred.
