There's nothing like the savory aroma of French Onion Meatloaf baking in the oven to make your home feel cozy and inviting. This twist on the classic comfort food combines the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with a tender, juicy meatloaf that's sure to be a hit.

The inspiration for this recipe came from a desire to marry two favorite dishes—French onion soup and hearty meatloaf—into one irresistible meal. Now it’s a go-to for family dinners, celebrations, and even meal prep for the week ahead.
Why You'll Love This French Onion Meatloaf
Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible recipe. French Onion Meatloaf takes everything you love about traditional meatloaf and elevates it with bold, savory flavors.
First, it’s packed with rich, caramelized onions that infuse every bite with sweet and savory goodness. These onions also help keep the meatloaf moist, so you won’t have to worry about dryness.
Next, the melted cheese topping adds a layer of indulgence that pairs perfectly with the deep onion flavor. The bubbly, golden-brown crust is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
It’s also a surprisingly easy recipe to make. While it tastes like it’s been slow-cooked by a gourmet chef, you can have it prepped and in the oven in under 20 minutes.
Finally, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or impressing guests, French Onion Meatloaf always hits the mark.
Ingredients Notes

The key to this incredible French Onion Meatloaf is the perfect blend of ingredients. Here’s what makes each one special.
Ground beef: Choose an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner options may dry out, so aim for a little fat to keep the meatloaf tender.
Caramelized onions: These are the star of the dish. Slowly cooked until golden and sweet, they add depth and a touch of elegance to the meatloaf.
Gruyère or Swiss cheese: Both melt beautifully and add a nutty richness that complements the onions. Shredding your own cheese will give you the best results.
Breadcrumbs and milk: This classic combo ensures a moist texture. The breadcrumbs soak up the milk, acting as a binder while adding softness to the loaf.
Beef broth and Worcestershire sauce: These enhance the meatloaf with umami and a slight tang, reminiscent of traditional French onion soup.
You’ll also need a loaf pan, parchment paper for easy removal, and aluminum foil to prevent over-browning during baking.
How To Make This French Onion Meatloaf

Making this French Onion Meatloaf is simpler than you might think. Let’s walk through the process step by step.
Start by preparing the caramelized onions. Slice two large onions thinly and cook them in a skillet with butter over low heat. Stir occasionally until they’re golden brown and sweet, about 25 minutes. Set them aside to cool slightly.
While the onions cool, preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs soaked in milk, an egg, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the loaf tough.
Fold in half of the caramelized onions and mix until just combined. Transfer the mixture to your prepared loaf pan, shaping it into an even loaf. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes.
Remove the meatloaf from the oven and top it with the remaining caramelized onions and shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This step is essential for keeping the juices locked in.
Storage Options
French Onion Meatloaf is a great make-ahead dish, and leftovers are just as delicious.
Store any remaining meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it.
For longer storage, wrap the meatloaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw frozen meatloaf in the refrigerator overnight. Heat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave for quicker reheating, though the oven will preserve the texture better.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make it your own.
- Turkey or chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You may need to add extra breadcrumbs for a firmer texture.
- Vegetarian option: Use a plant-based meat alternative and vegetable broth. Caramelized onions and cheese will keep it flavorful.
- Different cheeses: Try mozzarella, provolone, or even sharp cheddar for a new twist on the classic topping.
- Gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
- Herb boost: Add fresh thyme or parsley to the mixture for an aromatic touch.
Experiment with these ideas, and don’t be afraid to get creative. French Onion Meatloaf is a recipe you can truly make your own.
PrintFrench Onion Meatloaf Recipe
This French Onion Meatloaf recipe is a mouthwatering dish featuring juicy ground beef, caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese. A comforting and flavorful twist on classic meatloaf that's perfect for dinner!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup caramelized onions
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup beef broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Fold in half of the caramelized onions and half of the cheese.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan.
- Top with remaining caramelized onions and cheese.
- Pour beef broth around the loaf for moisture.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use freshly made caramelized onions for the best flavor.
- Substitute mozzarella with Swiss or Gruyere cheese for a richer taste.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
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