Juicy, cheesy, and packed with caramelized onion goodness — this Savory French Onion Meatloaf is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gourmet Flavor – Caramelized onions, Gruyère, and a savory glaze elevate classic meatloaf.

• Juicy & Tender – Ground beef and pork blend keeps the meatloaf moist.

• Cheesy Surprise – Gruyère hidden inside for a melty, cheesy center.

• Customizable Glaze – Optional tomato, Dijon, and balsamic glaze for added flavor.

Ingredients

3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar (optional)
2 tsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 ½ lbs ground beef
½ lb ground pork (optional)
1 cup caramelized onions
½ cup plain breadcrumbs
2 eggs, lightly beaten
½ cup milk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
2 tbsp tomato paste (optional glaze)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional glaze)
1 tbsp balsamic glaze or brown sugar (optional glaze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize Onions

Heat butter and oil in a skillet, add onions, salt, and sugar, and cook 25–30 minutes until golden and caramelized. Stir in balsamic vinegar and thyme; set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Meat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, pork, caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, garlic, Dijon, Worcestershire, parsley, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix gently until combined.

Step 3: Shape Meatloaf

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape half the meat mixture into a loaf, add 1 cup Gruyère in the center, then cover with the remaining mixture and seal edges.

Step 4: Apply Glaze (Optional)

Mix tomato paste, Dijon, and balsamic glaze, then brush over the top of the meatloaf.

Step 5: Bake

Bake 50–60 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). In the last 10 minutes, top with remaining Gruyère and Parmesan, then broil 2–3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

Rest meatloaf for 10 minutes before slicing and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese Options – Swap Gruyère with Swiss or Fontina for a different flavor.

• Make Ahead – Assemble meatloaf and refrigerate overnight; bake the next day.

• Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

• Add Veggies – Finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers can be mixed in for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this without pork?

Yes, ground beef alone works perfectly.

2. How do I prevent meatloaf from drying out?

Avoid overmixing and bake at a moderate temperature. Using a glaze or cheese topping helps retain moisture.

3. Can I freeze it?

Yes, freeze before baking or after fully cooled. Thaw in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

This Savory French Onion Meatloaf delivers rich, caramelized onion flavor, melty cheese, and a tender, juicy texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s comfort food with a gourmet touch.