French Onion Meatloaf

French Onion Meatloaf is a savory twist on the classic meatloaf recipe, incorporating the rich flavors of caramelized onions and French onion soup mix. Here’s how you can make it

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (you can also use a mix of ground beef and ground pork)
• 1 cup finely chopped yellow onions
• 1 packet (about 1 oz or 28g) French onion soup mix
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the French Onion Gravy (optional):

• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Caramelize Onions:
   • In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil or butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare Meatloaf Mixture:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, pepper, and the caramelized onions. Mix everything together gently until well combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a dense meatloaf.
4. Form the Meatloaf:
   • Transfer the meat mixture to the prepared loaf pan, shaping it into a loaf shape.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
   • Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and the top is nicely browned.
6. Optional Cheese Topping:
   • If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese over the top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking. Allow the cheese to melt and slightly brown.
7. Make the French Onion Gravy (Optional):
   • While the meatloaf is baking, you can prepare a simple French onion gravy. In a saucepan, heat the beef broth over medium heat. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour with a few tablespoons of cold water until smooth to make a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering beef broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve:
   • Once the meatloaf is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a serving platter.
   • Slice the meatloaf and serve with the optional French onion gravy drizzled over the top.
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Tips:

• Mixing Technique: Be gentle when mixing the meatloaf ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
• Caramelizing Onions: Take your time to properly caramelize the onions for the best flavor.
• Cheese Variation: You can use different cheeses like Swiss or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

This French Onion Meatloaf is sure to be a comforting and flavorful dish that your family will love. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors and making it your own!