Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious French Onion Meatloaf recipe. It’s a twist on the classic meatloaf that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 package dry French onion soup mix
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup French fried onions
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, and egg. Mix until well combined.
3. Press the meat mixture into a loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and French fried onions on top of the meatloaf and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Protein: 30g
**Popular Questions:**
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
– Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.
2. Can I substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken?
– Absolutely, ground turkey or chicken can be a great alternative to beef in this recipe.
3. Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time and reheat it?
– Yes, you can make this meatloaf ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.
4. What can I serve with French Onion Meatloaf?
– Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a side salad are great options to serve alongside this dish.
5. Can I freeze leftovers of this meatloaf?
– Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
6. Can I adjust the seasoning in the French onion soup mix?
– Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences or use a reduced sodium version.
7. Can I add more vegetables to the meatloaf mixture?
– You can mix in diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
8. Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
– Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in place of regular breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
9. Can I prepare this meatloaf in a slow cooker?
– While possible, the texture may be different but you can try cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
10. Can I double the recipe and freeze one loaf?
– Yes, you can double the recipe and freeze the extra loaf for a future meal.
**Helpful Tips:**
1. To enhance the flavor, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
2. For a crispy topping, broil the meatloaf for a few minutes after adding the cheese and fried onions.
3. Let the meatloaf rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to meld.
4. For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or turkey.
5. Experiment with different cheese varieties such as cheddar or Gruyère for a unique twist.
6. Mix in some chopped herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness.
7. Consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat mixture for added depth of flavor.
8. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
9. Customize the seasoning in the French onion soup mix with additional herbs or spices.
10. Serve the meatloaf with a side of homemade gravy for an extra indulgent touch.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Sauté onions before adding them to the meat mixture to bring out their sweetness.
2. Let the meatloaf cool slightly in the loaf pan before removing to prevent it from falling apart.
3. Use a combination of beef and pork for a richer flavor profile.
4. Mix in a handful of cooked and crumbled bacon for an extra layer of smokiness.
5. Brush the top of the meatloaf with a glaze made of ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard before baking.
6. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on top before serving for a pop of color.
7. Double the amount of French fried onions for a more intense onion flavor.
8. Drizzle some balsamic reduction over the sliced meatloaf for a touch of acidity.
9. For a crunchy texture, crush up some croutons and mix them into the meatloaf mixture.
10. Consider serving the meatloaf with a side of caramelized onions for an extra burst of sweetness.
