A flavor-forward twist on classic meatloaf, this Savory French Onion Meatloaf brings caramelized onions, tangy balsamic, and rich Swiss cheese into perfect harmony. It’s hearty comfort food elevated with gourmet flair—ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combining ground beef and pork ensures a moist, tender loaf, while the French onion topping adds a depth of sweet and savory richness. Topped with melted Swiss cheese, this meatloaf delivers layers of flavor and a satisfying, cheesy finish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatloaf:

1 lb ground beef
½ lb ground pork
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup breadcrumbs
½ cup milk
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the French Onion Topping:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 medium onions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
½ teaspoon sugar
½ cup beef broth
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Topping:

1½ cups Swiss cheese, shredded

directions

Prep the Loaf Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, chopped onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overworking the mixture.
Shape and Bake:
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a lightly greased loaf pan. Bake at 350 °F for 45 minutes.
Prepare the French Onion Topping:
While the meatloaf bakes, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until softened and golden (about 10 minutes), then stir in balsamic vinegar and sugar. Add beef broth, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until the liquid reduces and the onions are richly caramelized.
Add the Onion and Cheese:
Remove the meatloaf from the oven after 45 minutes. Spoon the French onion mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese generously on top of the onions.
Finish Baking:
Return the loaf to the oven and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.
Rest and Serve:
Allow the meatloaf to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère or cheddar instead of Swiss.
Herb Boost: Add fresh chopped thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
Heat It Up: Stir a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes into the onion topping.
Lean Option: Substitute ground turkey for pork to reduce fat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure broth is GF.

storage/reheating

Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm slices gently in the oven at 300 °F until heated through. Alternatively, microwave briefly—but be cautious to preserve cheese melt.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can shape the loaf and refrigerate it (covered) overnight. Prepare the onion topping fresh before baking.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

Chicken broth or water plus a splash of Worcestershire sauce works as a substitute.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Cook meatloaf on low for 6–8 hours. Add onions and cheese in the final hour to melt.

How do I ensure the loaf stays moist?

Avoid overmixing, and the combination of beef and pork plus milk helps keep it tender.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Freeze individual slices in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and serve with low-carb sides like sautéed greens.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded melts better and tastes fresher.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?

Use a meat thermometer: the internal temperature should reach 160 °F in the center.

Why add balsamic vinegar to the onions?

It enhances the onions with tangy-sweet depth and balances their natural sweetness.

What side dishes pair well?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad are ideal accompaniments.

Conclusion

Savory French Onion Meatloaf Topped with Melty Swiss Cheese is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that elevates classic meatloaf into a gourmet-style meal. With savory meat, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese, it’s a deliciously satisfying centerpiece for any night of the week.