Why You’ll Love French Onion Meatloaf Recipe

This French Onion Meatloaf brings everything you love about French onion soup—sweet caramelized onions, hearty beef flavors, and melty cheese—into one satisfying, baked dish. The onions add a sweet depth, the cheese adds creaminess, and the beef provides a savory base. Plus, it’s simple to prepare with everyday ingredients and makes for amazing leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef
breadcrumbs
milk
large onions, thinly sliced
garlic, minced
egg, beaten
Worcestershire sauce
Dijon mustard
dried thyme
salt
black pepper
butter
beef broth
shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and caramelized. Deglaze the pan with beef broth and stir until the liquid is absorbed. Let cool.
Make the meatloaf mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
Add onions and cheese: Fold in the caramelized onions and half of the shredded cheese. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place in a baking dish.
Bake for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and return to the oven for 5–10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Rest before serving: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Make it spicy: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
Use a cheese blend: Try a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella for extra meltiness.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Use turkey or pork: Ground turkey or pork can be substituted for a lighter version.
Mini meatloaves: Shape into individual loaves for quicker cooking and portion control.
Top with crispy onions: Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling crispy fried onions over the cheese.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes.
You can also freeze cooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of beef should I use for meatloaf?

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, Swiss, provolone, or even mozzarella can be used instead of Gruyère.

How do I know when meatloaf is done?

It’s fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the meatloaf a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Why are the onions caramelized first?

Caramelizing adds sweetness and depth of flavor that enhances the meatloaf.

What can I serve with French Onion Meatloaf?

Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, or a fresh salad are great sides.

Can I make this without eggs?

Yes, you can use a flax egg or omit it, but the texture may change slightly.

Is this meatloaf freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

Crushed crackers, oats, or even cooked quinoa can be good substitutes.

How do I keep meatloaf from falling apart?

Ensure you have enough binding agents like egg and breadcrumbs, and don’t overmix the meat.

Conclusion

French Onion Meatloaf is a hearty, cheesy, and deeply flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. With rich caramelized onions and gooey cheese baked into every bite, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers both comfort and flavor in every slice.