There's nothing quite like the rich, savory aroma of French Onion Meatloaf filling your kitchen. This delicious twist on a classic comfort food combines the caramelized flavors of French onion soup with the hearty satisfaction of meatloaf. It's the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at a weekend gathering.

I first discovered this recipe when I was looking for a way to use up leftover caramelized onions, and it quickly became a household favorite. The blend of flavors is so irresistible that even my picky eaters ask for seconds. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special.
Why You'll Love This French Onion Meatloaf
Get ready to fall in love with a meatloaf that's anything but ordinary. French Onion Meatloaf combines the flavors of two comfort classics into one irresistible dish.
First, it’s packed with flavor from sweet caramelized onions that add depth and richness to every bite. These onions meld beautifully with the juicy meat and cheese for a truly decadent experience.
Second, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare. While caramelizing onions does take a bit of time, the rest of the recipe comes together quickly and easily—making it manageable even on a busy weeknight.
This recipe is also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family meal or a special dinner, the combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and a tangy glaze is sure to impress.
And finally, it’s adaptable. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your recipe rotation.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this recipe lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each one adding a unique layer of flavor to the dish.
Ground beef forms the foundation of the meatloaf. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the perfect balance of juiciness and flavor. For a leaner option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Caramelized onions are the star of this dish. Their sweet, rich flavor elevates the meatloaf to a whole new level. Take your time with this step—it’s worth it!
Shredded Gruyère cheese melts beautifully, adding creaminess and a hint of nuttiness. You can also use Swiss cheese for a similar flavor profile or mozzarella for a milder option.
The breadcrumb mixture helps bind the meatloaf and keeps it tender. Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor or plain ones with a pinch of Italian seasoning.
A savory glaze of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy-sweet finish that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the meatloaf. If you prefer a bolder glaze, add a dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard.
For equipment, you’ll need a loaf pan or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, as well as a large skillet for caramelizing the onions.
How To Make This French Onion Meatloaf

Creating this dish is easier than you might think. With a little prep work and a bit of patience, you’ll have a stunning meatloaf ready to serve.
Start by caramelizing the onions. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat, add sliced onions, and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally for 25-30 minutes until the onions are soft, golden, and sweet. Set them aside to cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, an egg, half of the caramelized onions, shredded cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite seasonings. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in a prepared loaf pan or directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread a layer of the tangy glaze over the top of the loaf, reserving some for later.
Bake the meatloaf at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Halfway through cooking, brush the reserved glaze over the top for extra flavor.
Once cooked, let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to believe anyone could resist finishing this!), storing them is simple.
For refrigeration, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to four days.
To freeze, slice the meatloaf into portions and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months.
When reheating, use the oven for the best results. Wrap slices in foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use vegan cheese and a flax egg to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra veggies.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like sharp cheddar or smoked Gouda, for a unique twist.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha in the glaze.
Feel free to get creative with this recipe—it’s nearly impossible to go wrong. Whether you’re adding your own flair or sticking to the original, this French Onion Meatloaf is sure to become a favorite.
PrintFrench Onion Meatloaf Recipe
Indulge in this flavorful French Onion Meatloaf recipe! Made with ground beef, caramelized onions, and melty cheese, it's a comforting classic that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large onion, caramelized
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat until golden brown and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, caramelized onions, minced garlic, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper.
- Add in beef broth and mix until evenly combined.
- Place the mixture into a loaf pan and form into a loaf shape.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra caramelized flavor, reserve some onions to place on top of the meatloaf before baking.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
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