French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

French Onion Meatloaf is a comforting twist on a classic recipe, combining the savory flavors of French onion soup with the hearty satisfaction of meatloaf. Topped with melted Swiss cheese, this dish boasts a rich, caramelized onion flavor paired with a gooey, cheesy finish. It’s perfect for family dinners or an elevated take on comfort food for entertaining guests.

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Why This Recipe is So Appealing

• Rich Flavor Combination: The caramelized onions add sweetness and depth, while Swiss cheese provides a creamy, slightly nutty complement to the savory meat.
• Perfectly Moist Texture: A mixture of breadcrumbs and onion-infused broth ensures the meatloaf stays juicy and tender.
• Easy Yet Elegant: The recipe is straightforward to make, but the sophisticated flavor profile makes it feel like a gourmet meal.

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Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 2 pounds ground beef (80% lean)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup beef broth

For the French Onion Mixture

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup beef broth

For the Topping

• 4-6 slices Swiss cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the French Onion Mixture

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Sauté for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden and caramelized.
3. Stir in the dried thyme and beef broth. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the liquid has mostly evaporated. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

2. Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and beef broth.
2. Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are just combined (avoid overmixing to prevent toughness).

3. Assemble the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper.
3. Spread half of the meatloaf mixture onto the prepared surface, shaping it into a loaf.
4. Layer the cooled caramelized onion mixture on top, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add the remaining meatloaf mixture, carefully sealing the edges to encase the onions completely.

4. Bake

1. Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
2. Remove from the oven and immediately place Swiss cheese slices on top. Let them melt naturally from the heat of the meatloaf.

5. Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
2. Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

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Variations

• Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère for an even more authentic French onion flavor, or substitute with mozzarella for a milder option.
• Onion Options: Swap yellow onions for sweet onions or shallots for a subtler flavor.
• Ground Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef and pork for a lighter or richer variation.
• Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of cheese in the center along with the onions for extra indulgence.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8, depending on portion size
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooked meatloaf tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it when ready to serve.

2. Can I use pre-caramelized onions?

Yes, store-bought caramelized onions can save time, though freshly made onions provide the best flavor.

3. What sides pair best with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted green beans, or a simple side salad work wonderfully.

4. How can I ensure my meatloaf stays moist?

Avoid overmixing the meat, use enough breadcrumbs, and include broth in the mixture.

5. Can I cook this in a loaf pan?

Absolutely. A loaf pan helps shape the meatloaf and retain juices during baking.

6. What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce or coconut aminos can be used in equal amounts for a similar umami flavor.

7. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and bake two separate meatloaves or use a larger pan.

8. How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

9. What if I don’t like Swiss cheese?

You can use cheddar, provolone, or your favorite melting cheese.

10. Can I add vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?

Finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded carrots can be added for extra flavor and texture.

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Conclusion

French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is a rich and satisfying dish that marries the comforting flavors of classic meatloaf with the elegant depth of French onion soup. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is versatile, easy to prepare, and sure to impress. Serve it with your favorite sides for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.

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