French Onion Meatloaf
This French onion meatloaf combines classic comfort with rich flavor from French onion soup, Gruyere cheese, and a crispy onion topping.
Our French onion meatloaf takes the comfort of a traditional meatloaf and elevates it with the savory flavors of French onion soup. This dish is packed with depth, from the caramelized notes of condensed French onion soup to the nutty creaminess of Gruyere cheese. Crispy fried onions add the perfect crunch, bringing balance to the tender, juicy meat.
A blend of ground beef, oats, panko crumbs, and an egg ensures the meatloaf remains moist yet holds its structure. A combination of black pepper, thyme, and parsley enhances its flavor. The addition of Gruyere cheese creates a luscious melt, making each bite even more indulgent. Once baked to perfection, the final touch of cheese and crispy onions is broiled briefly, creating a golden, irresistible crust.
This meatloaf is ideal for a cozy family dinner, and it’s elegant enough for guests. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, allowing you to customize your meal to suit any occasion. Whether served as the centerpiece of a homestyle meal or repurposed into a delicious sandwich the next day, this French onion meatloaf will become a household favorite.
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
Classic comfort, elevated. Savory soup and cheese take this beyond traditional meatloaf.
Rich and satisfying. Each bite is juicy, cheesy, and full of French onion flavor.
Great for leftovers. Makes excellent sandwiches the next day!
Crowd-pleaser. A perfect cozy dish for weeknights or guests.
How to Make This French Onion Meatloaf
Start by getting your oven preheated and greasing your loaf pan. The meat mixture comes together quickly—just combine everything in a big bowl and mix it until well blended.
Once it’s shaped and in the pan, bake the meatloaf until it’s cooked through. Just before it’s done, top it with cheese and fried onions and give it a few extra minutes in the oven so the topping gets melty and golden.
Let it rest briefly before slicing so it holds together nicely when served. That crispy-cheesy topping is irresistible!
Recipe Variations
- More Cheese – For a cheesy surprise, form half of the meat mixture into the pan, add a layer of about 1/2 cup of Gruyere or Swiss cheese, then top with the remaining meat mixture before baking. This creates a gooey, cheesy center when sliced.
- Spicy – Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the meatloaf mixture and replace the Gruyère cheese with pepper jack.
- BBQ – Brush a few tablespoons of barbecue sauce over the top of the meatloaf before baking and replace the Gruyère with smoked Gouda.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with egg noodles and glazed carrots.
- Pair with a salad and a slice of crusty baguette.
- Add mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or broccoli.
- Layer slices on toasted brioche buns with Dijon spread.
How to Store (and Reheat)
Refrigerate: Store cooled meatloaf in a shallow airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze portions in containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label and date.
To Reheat: In the oven, cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 12–15 minutes. In a skillet, heat slices over medium-low with a lid for 3–5 minutes per side. For quick reheating, microwave at 50% power in 30-second bursts. Air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 2 pounds lean ground beef, (90%)
- 1/2 cup oats, (quick or old-fashioned)
- 1/2 cup panko crumbs
- 1 large egg, (lightly beaten)
- 1 10 1/2- ounce can condensed French onion soup
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, (or 1/4 teaspoon table salt)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 3 to 4 ounces Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup fried onions
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat the oven to 350 F. Lightly oil a 9-by5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, oats, panko, egg, soup, pepper, thyme, salt, and parsley. Mix well.
- Bake the meatloaf: Transfer the mixture to a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan and bake in the oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Add the topping: Remove the meatloaf to a rack and top with the cheese and French-fried onions. Return it to the oven and cook for 10 minutes longer or until the cheese is melted and the fried onions are golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the meatloaf to a rack and let it
- cool for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the meatloaf to a cutting board.
- Serve: Slice the meatloaf and serve. Enjoy!
