French Onion Meatloaf

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making the perfect French Onion Meatloaf! This savory and comforting dish is a twist on the classic meatloaf, infused with the rich flavors of French onion soup. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will have you whipping up a delicious French Onion Meatloaf in no time.

(Note: the recipe card directly below.PDF )

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Meatloaf

There are so many reasons to love this French Onion Meatloaf recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and a rich French onion soup glaze creates a symphony of tastes that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for meal prepping.

But that’s not all. This meatloaf is also incredibly moist and tender. The addition of breadcrumbs and milk helps to keep the meatloaf juicy, while the French onion soup mix adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers. This meatloaf tastes even better the next day, making it the perfect meal prep option. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients for French Onion Meatloaf

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious French Onion Meatloaf:

• ground beef
• onion, finely chopped
• garlic, minced
• breadcrumbs
• cup milk
• French onion soup mix
• (Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

One of the best things about this French Onion Meatloaf recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Turkey Meatloaf: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Meatloaf: Use a plant-based meat alternative or a mix of mushrooms and lentils.
• Cheesy Meatloaf: Add shredded cheese to the meat mixture or top the meatloaf with cheese before baking.
• Spicy Meatloaf: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

How to Make French Onion Meatloaf

Making French Onion Meatloaf is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5 minutes.
3. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, French onion soup mix, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the bowl and mix until well combined.
4. Form the Meatloaf: Press the meat mixture into the greased loaf pan, smoothing the top.
5. Add the Glaze: If using, spread a thin layer of ketchup, BBQ sauce, or additional French onion soup mix over the top of the meatloaf.
6. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to make your French Onion Meatloaf even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh onions and garlic for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the meat mixture, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the meat mixture before forming the meatloaf and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
• Rest the Meatloaf: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

How to Serve

French Onion Meatloaf is a hearty meal on its own, but it’s even better with a few sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Mashed Potatoes: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food pairing.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts.
• Salad: A simple green salad is a great way to balance out the rich flavors of the meatloaf.
• Bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread or warm dinner rolls.

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Onion Meatloaf is perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make it ahead and store it:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatloaf mixture up to a day in advance. Just cover the bowl and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Reheat: Reheat the meatloaf in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the meatloaf cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf in a slow cooker?

Yes! Form the meatloaf mixture into a loaf shape and place it in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

Is this meatloaf gluten-free?

This meatloaf can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this meatloaf?

Yes, this meatloaf freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make this meatloaf spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for a kick of heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat mixture.

Conclusion

And there you have it—the ultimate guide to making delicious French Onion Meatloaf. This savory and comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch to meal prep, this meatloaf has you covered. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.

Happy cooking!

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