French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss
This isn’t your average meatloaf—it transforms familiar flavors into something truly special. Sweet, golden caramelized onions are folded into the tender meat mixture and layered on top, then finished with a blanket of melted Swiss cheese. Every slice is rich, savory, and deeply comforting.
Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or anytime you want to impress with a homestyle dish that feels restaurant-worthy, this make-ahead-friendly recipe is hearty, kid-approved, and sure to become a family favorite.
French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese
🧾 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp butter | For caramelizing onions |
| 2 large onions | Thinly sliced |
| 1 tsp sugar | Helps onions caramelize |
| 1½ lb ground beef | Base protein |
| ½ lb ground pork | Adds richness |
| 1 cup breadcrumbs | Binds mixture |
| 2 eggs | Room temperature |
| ¼ cup milk | Adds moisture |
| 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce | Depth of flavor |
| 1 tsp salt | Seasoning |
| ½ tsp black pepper | Balance |
| 1 tsp dried thyme | Herbal note |
| 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese | Melty topping |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Caramelize the Onions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sugar and cook until soft, golden, and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
2. Mix the Meatloaf Base
In a large bowl, gently combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and thyme until just mixed.
3. Add the Onions
Fold most of the caramelized onions into the meat mixture, reserving a portion for the topping.
4. Shape and Top
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan and gently press into an even loaf. Spread the reserved onions over the top.
5. First Bake
Bake for 45 minutes, until nearly cooked through and lightly browned.
6. Add Cheese and Finish
Sprinkle Swiss cheese over the loaf. Return to the oven for about 15 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute for tender, flavorful servings.
