Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs lean ground beef (85/15 recommended)
- 1 cup finely chopped caramelized onions (divided)
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or stock
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, Panko breadcrumbs, egg, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and 3/4 cup of the caramelized onions. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Step 2: Gently mix the ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can result in a tough meatloaf. Form the mixture into a cohesive loaf shape and place it into a lightly greased loaf pan or on a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Step 3: Bake the meatloaf for 45-50 minutes. While baking, combine the remaining 1/4 cup of caramelized onions with 3/4 cup of the shredded Gruyère cheese.
- Step 4: Remove the meatloaf from the oven. Spread the Gruyère and caramelized onion mixture evenly over the top of the loaf. Return the meatloaf to the oven and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and the cheese is bubbly and deeply golden brown.
- Step 5: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
Notes
- Store leftover meatloaf tightly wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or slice and freeze portions for longer keeping.
- To reheat slices without drying them out, place them in an oven safe dish with a tablespoon of beef broth and cover loosely with foil before warming in a 300°F oven until hot.
- Pair this savory loaf with creamy mashed potatoes and a light, acidic side salad to perfectly balance the hearty Gruyère and rich beef flavors.
- Chef's Tip: For the most authentic French Onion depth, ensure the onions are truly deep, sticky brown—not merely softened—before incorporating them into the mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American