Description
This French Onion Meatloaf combines classic comfort food flavors with a cheesy twist. Ground beef is mixed with savory French onion soup, breadcrumbs, and spices, then baked to perfection with a sweet and tangy ketchup glaze. The addition of mozzarella cheese and optional caramelized onions adds richness and depth, making it a satisfying main dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatloaf Mixture
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 cup French onion soup (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup caramelized onions (optional)
Topping
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking of the meatloaf.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, French onion soup, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat which can make it dense.
- Add Cheese and Onions: Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese and caramelized onions if using, distributing them evenly through the mixture for pockets of flavor.
- Shape Meatloaf: Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased loaf pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Apply Topping: Spread the topping evenly over the surface of the meatloaf to caramelize during baking.
- Bake: Bake the meatloaf for 60 to 70 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached, ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest: Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, making it tender and easier to slice.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm, pairing with your favorite side dishes for a hearty meal.
Notes
- For richer flavor, use homemade French onion soup and freshly caramelized onions.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meatloaf version.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the French onion soup is gluten-free.
- Resting the meatloaf after baking helps retain moisture and improves texture.
