Why Make This Recipe
Savory French Onion Meatloaf is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. It combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with the hearty goodness of meatloaf. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it is easy to make and will surely impress your guests. The combination of Swiss cheese adds a creamy texture that elevates the meatloaf, making it a satisfying meal for everyone.
How to Make Savory French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the caramelized onions and shredded Swiss cheese until well mixed.
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Savory French Onion Meatloaf
Serve Savory French Onion Meatloaf with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. You can also pair it with some crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices. For an extra touch, drizzle some gravy on top for added flavor.
How to Store Savory French Onion Meatloaf
To store leftovers, place the meatloaf in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay good for about 3-4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze slices for longer storage. Wrap them in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Savory French Onion Meatloaf
- Be sure to caramelize the onions well; this step is key to enhancing the flavor of the meatloaf.
- You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure it is cooked properly.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Variation
For those who prefer a different cheese, you can substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère or cheddar, based on your taste preference. Additionally, you can mix in some chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make Savory French Onion Meatloaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just shape it into a loaf before baking.
2. How do I know when the meatloaf is fully cooked?
You can use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read 160°F (70°C) for it to be safe to eat.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative, but the texture and taste may differ slightly from traditional beef meatloaf.
Savory French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients
For the Meatloaf
- 2 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Use plain or Italian seasoned.
- 1/2 cup milk Can use whole or skim milk.
- 2 large eggs Bind the ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper Season according to preference.
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese Can substitute with Gruyère or cheddar.
For the Caramelized Onions
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced Key for that rich flavor.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter For sautéing the onions.
- 1 tbsp olive oil Helps prevent butter from burning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
Mixing the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the caramelized onions and shredded Swiss cheese until well mixed.
Baking
- Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
