Description
Hearty French onion meatloaf merges classic comfort with sophisticated French flavors, blending caramelized onions and savory beef into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Cheese-topped and rich with deep umami notes, this dish invites you to savor each memorable bite of culinary creativity.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1.5 pounds (680 grams) ground beef
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Bread and Binding Ingredients:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large onion, caramelized
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Gently transform sliced onions into a rich, amber-hued delicacy by slowly cooking in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until deeply caramelized and luxuriously soft.
- Combine ground beef with toasted breadcrumbs, creating a harmonious blend of tender meat and crisp texture.
- Incorporate the golden caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, and beaten eggs into the meat mixture, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Introduce Worcestershire sauce, seasoning with salt and black pepper to elevate the overall taste profile.
- Gradually pour beef broth into the mixture, folding gently to maintain a light, cohesive consistency without overworking the meat.
- Transfer the prepared mixture into a loaf pan, carefully molding it into a uniform shape with gentle pressure.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese across the top, creating a melty, golden crown.
- Slide the pan into a preheated 375F (190C) oven, allowing the meatloaf to roast for 50-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches a safe 160F (71C).
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute and ensuring a moist, tender result.
- Slice and optionally garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of vibrant color and herbaceous freshness.
Notes
- Caramelize onions slowly over low-medium heat to develop deep, rich sweetness without burning, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
- Consider using lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess fat while maintaining moisture, which prevents the meatloaf from becoming dry.
- For gluten-free adaptation, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the recipe’s texture and binding properties.
- Enhance flavor complexity by adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar during onion caramelization, which deepens the overall taste profile of the meatloaf.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 395 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg