French Onion Meatloaf with Caramelized Onions & Melted Gruyère

🧅 French Onion Meatloaf with Caramelized Onions & Melted Gruyère 🧀🍽️

This isn’t your average meatloaf! Juicy ground beef meets golden caramelized onions, Dijon mustard, and a melty blanket of Gruyère cheese—creating a cozy, French-inspired twist on a classic comfort food. Perfect for Sunday dinner or a meal that feels like a hug. 🇫🇷❤️

✨ Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

• 1½ lbs (680g) ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ of the caramelized onions (see below)

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup beef broth (for moisture & extra flavor)

For Topping:

• Remaining caramelized onions
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
   In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until deep golden and soft. Add the garlic during the final 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture:
   In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, salt, pepper, and half of the caramelized onions. Mix just until combined—don’t overwork!
4. Shape and Bake:
   Form the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in the prepared pan. Pour the beef broth evenly over the top. Bake for 45 minutes.
5. Add the Toppings:
   Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Top with the remaining caramelized onions and sprinkle with shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
6. Final Bake:
   Return to the oven and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve:
   Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful. Serve warm with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies. Bon appétit! 🥔🍷

⏱️ Quick Info:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: ~380 kcal per serving

💡 Pro Tips:

• Make it ahead: Prepare the loaf a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
• For extra flavor, deglaze the onions with a splash of white wine.
• Swap Gruyère with mozzarella or provolone for a milder cheese pull.