French Onion Meatloaf Recipe
There’s something magical about combining the deep, savory flavors of French onion soup with a juicy, tender meatloaf. This French Onion Meatloaf recipe takes a beloved classic and gives it a gourmet twist, layering rich caramelized onions and a tangy glaze over a perfectly seasoned loaf. It’s hearty, cozy, and guaranteed to make your dinner table feel a little more special.
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Meatloaf
This dish is the perfect blend of homey comfort and elevated flavor. The meatloaf itself is soft and juicy thanks to the soaked breadcrumbs, while Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add depth and umami. The caramelized onions bring a touch of sweetness, and the glaze provides a tangy, glossy finish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef or a blend of beef and pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 cups pearl onions or small onions, peeled
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture soak for 5 minutes so the crumbs can soften and help keep the loaf tender.
Add in the ground meat, eggs, chopped onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures your meatloaf stays soft and juicy.
2. Shape and Bake
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Bake for 30 minutes.
3. Make the Glaze
While the meatloaf bakes, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. This glaze adds a beautiful sweet-tangy finish.
4. Glaze the Meatloaf
Remove the loaf from the oven after the first 30 minutes. Spread the glaze evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
5. Caramelize the Onions
Meanwhile, in a skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the pearl onions and sauté for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the sugar and a pinch of salt over them, then continue cooking for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden and caramelized.
Pour in the balsamic vinegar, stirring to coat and deepen the flavor.
6. Assemble and Serve
Once the meatloaf is fully cooked, top it generously with the caramelized onions. For a fresh touch, sprinkle a little thyme on top. Serve hot with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
7. Add the cheese:
During the last 10–15 minutes, layer Swiss cheese slices over the top of the meatloaf. Cover again until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Serving Tip
For an extra indulgent touch, melt a layer of provolone or Swiss cheese over the meatloaf before adding the caramelized onions. It creates a beautiful French onion soup–style finish that takes this dish to the next level.
✨ Pro tip: This meatloaf reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day sandwiches.
This French Onion Meatloaf isn’t just dinner—it’s comfort in every bite.
