- Prepare the Onions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
- Add butter, minced garlic, and thyme to the skillet with the onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Make the Meatloaf Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, shredded cheese, and cooled onion mixture. Mix gently until well combined. If the mixture seems dry, add beef broth a little at a time until it reaches a moist consistency that holds together.
- Form the Meatloaf:
- Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Shape it into a loaf shape, approximately 9 inches long and 5 inches wide.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
- Glaze and Bake:
- Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the Meatloaf:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Glaze Again and Serve:
- Remove the meatloaf from the oven and spread the remaining glaze over the top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve:
- Slice the French Onion Meatloaf and serve warm. Garnish with additional thyme leaves if desired.
Tips for Perfect French Onion Meatloaf:
- Caramelizing Onions: Take your time caramelizing the onions to develop their sweet flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the meatloaf.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyere, Swiss, or even Parmesan for variations in flavor.
- Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze ingredients to your taste preferences. You can add a bit more brown sugar for a sweeter glaze or more Worcestershire sauce for a tangier kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the French Onion Meatloaf with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed green beans.
Conclusion:
French Onion Meatloaf combines the comforting flavors of caramelized onions and savory meatloaf, topped with a tangy-sweet glaze. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or gatherings, offering a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture of this French-inspired meatloaf!