French Onion Meatloaf with Swiss Cheese

If you love French onion soup, imagine that rich, caramelized flavor baked into a hearty meatloaf. French Onion Meatloaf with Swiss Cheese combines savory beef, sweet caramelized onions, and nutty, melty Swiss cheese for a dish that feels indulgent, comforting, and sophisticated all at once. This step-by-step guide makes it easy to recreate this classic-meets-modern comfort food at home.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

• 1 ½ pounds (700g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork for extra juiciness)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup French onion soup (or condensed French onion soup)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Swiss Cheese Topping

• 6 ounces Swiss cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon flour
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Optional Garnish

• Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 8–10 minutes until soft and golden brown.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Tip: Slow caramelization develops the deep, sweet flavor essential for that French onion taste.

Step 2: Make the Meatloaf Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Gently fold in the caramelized onions and garlic.
3. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. Transfer the meat mixture into the pan and shape into a smooth loaf.
4. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Swiss Cheese Topping

1. In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in 1 tablespoon flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in ½ cup beef broth and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, cooking until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the Swiss cheese until smooth.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

1. Spread the Swiss cheese sauce evenly over the baked meatloaf.
2. Return to the oven for 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for color and flavor.
3. Serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Tips for Success

• Juicy meatloaf: Use a beef-pork mix or add grated zucchini/carrot for extra moisture.
• Flavor boost: A splash of red wine or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar in the onions adds depth.
• Make-ahead: Assemble the meatloaf in advance, cover, and bake the next day—the flavors intensify beautifully.

Why This Recipe Works

This meatloaf strikes the perfect balance of savory beef, sweet caramelized onions, and nutty Swiss cheese. The slow-cooked onions mimic the richness of French onion soup, while the cheese topping adds a creamy, luxurious finish. It’s comforting enough for weeknight dinners but elegant enough to impress guests.