French Onion Meatloaf is a delightful twist on the traditional meatloaf, infused with the savory flavors of French onion soup and gooey Swiss cheese.
This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and special occasions, providing a warm and hearty meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into why you should add this recipe to your meal rotation!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and is sure to impress with its rich flavors. The combination of caramelized onion notes from the soup mix and melted cheese creates a deliciously moist meatloaf that’s full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish on a chilly night or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, French Onion Meatloaf checks all the boxes!
How To Make French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup French onion soup (for topping)
3-Step Directions:
- Preheat & Mix: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, French onion soup mix, shredded Swiss cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly blended.
- Shape & Assemble: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish. Spread the remaining French onion soup evenly over the top.
- Bake & Serve: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Prep Time And Nutrition Facts
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 60 minutes to cook, making a total of 70 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving contains approximately 400 calories, 28g of protein, and 22g of fat, making it a filling meal option.
How To Serve French Onion Meatloaf
Serve French Onion Meatloaf warm, sliced, and topped with additional grated Swiss cheese or freshly chopped herbs like parsley for a pop of flavor. Pair it with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How To Store French Onion Meatloaf
To store leftovers, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Tips To Make French Onion Meatloaf
- For added moisture, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or mushrooms.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like Gruyère or mozzarella.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
Health And Benefits Of This Recipe
This recipe is a great source of protein, thanks to the ground beef and eggs, making it filling and satisfying. The Swiss cheese adds calcium and flavor, while the French onion soup mix provides a unique blend of seasonings and easy preparation. Although it has some fat content, you can make it healthier by using lean ground beef and pairing it with healthy sides.
Variation
For a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also replace breadcrumbs with oats or quinoa to boost the fiber content, making the dish even more nutritious.
FAQs
Can I make French Onion Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture and form the loaf ahead of time, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it.Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as alternatives.What sides pair well with this meatloaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad are great accompaniments.Can I leave out the cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version, but it will reduce the creaminess.What if I don’t have French onion soup mix?
You can create your own mix using dried onion flakes, beef bouillon, and seasonings like garlic powder and thyme.How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Use a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked.Can I freeze cooked meatloaf?
Yes, cooked meatloaf can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to slice it for easy reheating.
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, French onion soup mix, shredded Swiss cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly blended.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- Spread the remaining French onion soup evenly over the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.
