Description
French onion meatloaf merges classic comfort with gourmet flair, blending savory beef and caramelized onions into a mouthwatering main course. Hearty flavors and golden cheese create a satisfying meal sure to delight weekend dinner guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef
Binding and Moisture Ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg, beaten
Flavor and Aromatic Ingredients:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
Instructions
- Create a flavor foundation by gently transforming onions into a rich, golden-brown delicacy through slow caramelization in melted butter over medium heat, allowing approximately 20-25 minutes for deep flavor development. Enhance the process by deglazing with beef broth, which will capture all the concentrated savory essence.
- In a spacious mixing vessel, harmonize ground beef with breadcrumbs, milk, garlic, egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend ingredients thoroughly using a gentle folding technique to maintain meat’s delicate texture.
- Incorporate the luxurious caramelized onions and half of the Gruyère cheese into the meat mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors throughout the loaf.
- Artfully mold the seasoned mixture into a cohesive loaf shape, positioning it carefully in a prepared baking dish to promote even cooking.
- Transfer the loaf into a preheated oven at 350°F, allowing it to roast for approximately one hour until the internal temperature reaches a safe 160°F, signaling complete cooking.
- During the final stage of baking, generously crown the meatloaf with remaining Gruyère cheese, creating a molten, golden-brown crust that adds decadent complexity to the dish.
- Allow the meatloaf to rest and settle for 10 minutes after removing from the oven, which enables juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender final presentation. Slice and accompany with complementary side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes or herb-roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Achieve golden-brown caramelized onions by cooking slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning and develop rich, sweet flavor.
- Choose ground beef with moderate fat content (80/20 or 85/15) to ensure the meatloaf stays moist and flavorful without becoming greasy.
- Enhance texture by gently mixing ingredients, avoiding overworking the meat, which can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Substitute Gruyère with other melting cheeses like Emmental or sharp cheddar for different flavor profiles while maintaining creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 100mg