French Onion Meatloaf

French Onion Meatloaf is a delightful twist on traditional meatloaf that brings a burst of flavors and aromas to your kitchen. This comforting dish combines the rich, savory taste of French onion soup with the heartiness of meatloaf, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or gatherings. Topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese, this dish not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 350
• Protein: 24 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20 grams
• Fat: 20 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Sugar: 2 grams
• Sodium: 520 mg

Why Make This French Onion Meatloaf

French Onion Meatloaf merges the iconic taste of French onion soup with the classic comfort of meatloaf, making it a standout dish that’s both hearty and comforting. Whether you are looking for a cozy meal on a weeknight or a dish that impresses guests at a dinner party, this recipe fits the bill. The umami flavors of the beef combined with the caramelized taste of onion soup create a flavorful loaf that is juicy, tender, and easy to prepare. Plus, the melted cheese on top adds an extra layer of deliciousness that is sure to make your taste buds sing!

How to Make French Onion Meatloaf

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup French onion soup
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Step 2: Mixing

  In a large bowl, combine ground beef, French onion soup, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

• Step 3: Shaping

  Form the mixture into a loaf shape, making sure it’s firm but not too compact.

• Step 4: Baking

  Place the meatloaf in a baking dish. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).

• Step 5: Finishing Touch

  During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.

• Step 6: Resting

  Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to settle.

How to Serve French Onion Meatloaf

Serve your French Onion Meatloaf hot with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also pair it with a fresh garden salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to complement the rich flavors of the meatloaf. For a comforting twist, serve it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

How to Store French Onion Meatloaf

Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place slices in a microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatloaf by tightly wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Expert Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf

• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 160°F (70°C) for safe consumption.
• Moisture matters: If you find your meatloaf mixture is too dry, add a splash of milk or additional French onion soup to get the right consistency.
• Cheese variations: Feel free to mix up the types of cheese used. Cheddar or gouda also make great alternatives to mozzarella.
• Add herbs: For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the mixture.

Delicious Variations

• Turkey Meatloaf: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or chickpeas as a base instead of meat, incorporating similar ingredients for the flavor.
• Stuffed Meatloaf: Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms and onions in the center before shaping to elevate the taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use something other than breadcrumbs?
  Yes! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, or even ground nuts for a gluten-free option.

• How long should I bake a larger meatloaf?
  If you make a larger meatloaf, increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes, and always check for the correct internal temperature.

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator and bake it when ready to serve.

• What should I serve with French Onion Meatloaf?
  Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, or a simple green salad for a fresh touch.

• How can I enhance the flavor?
  Adding garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, or your favorite spices can elevate the flavor of your meatloaf.

Conclusion

French Onion Meatloaf is not just another dinner option; it’s a flavorful journey that combines comfort food with gourmet flair. With easy preparation and components that are likely already in your pantry, it’s a fun recipe to try. The rich onion flavor paired with melty cheese creates a meal that feels special while being incredibly approachable. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake a hearty dish that will impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy every savory bite!

French Onion Meatloaf

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful twist on traditional meatloaf that combines the rich, savory taste of French onion soup with the heartiness of meatloaf, topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup French onion soup
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, French onion soup, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Form the mixture into a loaf shape, making sure it’s firm but not too compact.
4. Place the meatloaf in a baking dish. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
5. During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to settle.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley into the mixture. Leftover meatloaf can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg