French Onion Meatloaf combines

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet caramelized onions and nutty Gruyère cheese adds depth to the traditional meatloaf.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish offers a warm, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
• Versatile Pairings: Pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef
• Breadcrumbs
• Milk
• Eggs
• Caramelized onions
• Gruyère cheese
• Garlic
• Worcestershire sauce
• Dijon mustard
• Dried thyme
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Caramelize Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté thinly sliced onions in butter until golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
3. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix until just combined.
4. Shape and Bake: Form the mixture into a loaf shape on a baking sheet or press into a loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
5. Add Cheese: Remove from oven, top with shredded Gruyère cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the remaining caramelized onions on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Alternatives: Use Swiss or mozzarella cheese if Gruyère is unavailable.
• Gluten-Free: Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, pork, or a combination of beef and pork can be used for a different flavor profile.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even almond flour as a gluten-free option.

How do I prevent my meatloaf from drying out?

Be sure not to overbake the meatloaf and consider using a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Also, resting the meatloaf before slicing helps retain moisture.

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply place it in the oven and proceed with the recipe.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatloaf for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. You can also freeze cooked meatloaf and reheat it in the oven.

What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?

Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or even cheddar can be used as a substitute, depending on your taste preference.

How long should I let the meatloaf rest before slicing?

Letting the meatloaf rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making each slice more tender and juicy.

Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

What sides go well with French Onion Meatloaf?

This meatloaf pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad. A slice of crusty bread is great for soaking up the sauce!

How can I tell when the meatloaf is fully cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure doneness; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C).

Conclusion

This French Onion Meatloaf is an irresistible twist on

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