Are you tired of the same old meatloaf? Craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that's both easy and impressive? Then get ready to fall in love with this French Onion Meatloaf – a twist on a classic, passed down through generations. This recipe delivers all the juicy goodness of traditional meatloaf, enhanced by the rich sweetness of caramelized onions and a hint of savory herbs. It's a delicious dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, proving that homemade cooking can be both quick and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is one of the best recipes for a hearty, healthy meal that the whole family will adore.
Ingredients:
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions:
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
This step is key to the amazing flavor of this meatloaf. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes. This slow cooking process develops a rich sweetness that perfectly complements the meatloaf. Be patient; it's worth the wait!
Step 2: Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently mix with your hands until just combined. Don't overmix, as this can result in a tough meatloaf.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Meatloaf
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan. Transfer the meatloaf mixture to the prepared pan and shape it into a loaf. Pour the beef broth into the bottom of the pan. This helps keep the meatloaf moist during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here! For extra browning, you can broil the meatloaf for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meatloaf. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard to the meatloaf mixture.
- If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and make delicious sandwiches.
- For a healthier version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This French Onion Meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It's easy to make, yet packed with flavor, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!