Imagine classic juicy meatloaf infused with rich caramelized onions, smothered in melty Gruyère cheese, and topped with a luscious French onion-style gravy. It’s cozy, elegant, and absolutely packed with flavor.Here’s a version that’ll taste like a fancy bistro dinner but is easy enough for a weeknight 👇
🧅 French Onion Meatloaf with Gruyère
🍖 Ingredients
Serves 6–8
For the caramelized onions:
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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½ tsp salt
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1 tsp sugar (optional, helps caramelization)
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
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¼ cup beef broth or dry white wine (to deglaze)
For the meatloaf:
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2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
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2 eggs
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½ cup milk
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½ cup caramelized onions (from above)
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (plus extra for topping)
For the topping / gravy:
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1 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp flour
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1 ½ cups beef broth
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½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
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½ cup caramelized onions (from earlier)
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Salt & pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Caramelize the onions
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In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium-low heat.
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Add sliced onions and salt. Cook slowly, stirring often, for 25–30 minutes, until deep golden brown.
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Deglaze with beef broth or wine; cook until liquid is mostly absorbed.
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Remove from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the meatloaf mixture
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire, spices, and ½ cup of the caramelized onions.
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Gently mix until just combined (don’t overwork it).
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Fold in 1 cup of shredded Gruyère cheese.
3. Shape and bake
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Shape into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan or on a lined baking sheet.
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Bake for 45 minutes.
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Top with the remaining caramelized onions and a handful of Gruyère cheese.
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Return to oven and bake another 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and internal temp reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Make the French onion gravy
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In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux.
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Slowly whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire, and leftover caramelized onions.
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Simmer 5–7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve
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Slice the meatloaf and spoon the warm French onion gravy over the top.
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Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
💡 Tips & Variations
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Make ahead: You can assemble the meatloaf a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
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Cheese swaps: Try Swiss, Provolone, or Fontina if you can’t find Gruyère.
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Mushroom twist: Add 1 cup sautéed mushrooms to the caramelized onions for even more umami flavor.
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Serving idea: Pair with mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up that sauce.
Would you like me to give you a mini loaf or muffin-pan version (for individual French Onion Meatloaves with gooey cheese centers)? They bake faster and are perfect for meal prep!