Name: French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground beef; 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 3/4 cup breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 6 slices Swiss cheese

This French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss is everything you never knew meatloaf could be. It takes the humble dinner staple and transforms it into a comfort food masterpiece. Juicy ground beef is infused with the savory sweetness of caramelized onions, then topped with melty Swiss cheese and a drizzle of rich onion gravy. Every bite is hearty, gooey, and full of flavor that feels like a cozy night wrapped in a dish.

It’s a cross between classic diner fare and your favorite French onion soup, baked into one delicious loaf. Whether you serve it for Sunday supper or prep it for a weeknight meal, this meatloaf turns ordinary ground beef into something memorable. The melted Swiss is the final touch that pulls it all together with a luxurious finish.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Meatloaf

It’s the ultimate upgrade from traditional meatloaf. Instead of a ketchup glaze, you get layers of savory onion flavor and creamy Swiss cheese that feels like a warm hug. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a family, and leftovers taste just as good reheated the next day. The flavor combo of caramelized onions and melted cheese is irresistible, and it even works beautifully as a sandwich filling the next day.

What Kind of Onions Should I Use?

For the most flavor, use yellow onions or sweet Vidalia onions. These varieties caramelize beautifully and add natural sweetness to balance the savory meat and cheese. Red onions can work in a pinch, but the flavor leans a bit too sharp for this dish. Avoid white onions, as they don’t caramelize as richly and may lack the depth of flavor you’re looking for.

Ingredients for the French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss

This meatloaf leans into rich, savory flavors and creamy cheese to create something more indulgent than your average loaf. Each ingredient brings something essential to the table, from depth of flavor to that signature gooey texture on top.

Ground beef
Yellow onions
Olive oil
Garlic
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Breadcrumbs
Eggs
Salt
Black pepper
Thyme
Swiss cheese slices

Ground beef forms the hearty base and holds the structure. Yellow onions are slowly caramelized to become the star of the show, adding rich, sweet-savory flavor. Olive oil is used for sauteing, and garlic adds a mellow bite to the mix. Beef broth and Worcestershire sauce bring umami depth that keeps every bite juicy. Breadcrumbs and eggs are the binding agents that ensure everything holds together. A pinch of salt, black pepper, and thyme elevates the flavor just enough. And finally, Swiss cheese slices are layered over the top for a melted finish that makes the whole dish sing.

How To Make the French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced yellow onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 25 to 30 minutes until golden and caramelized. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes more. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the Meatloaf

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, half of the cooled caramelized onion mixture, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, breadcrumbs, eggs, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 3: Shape and Bake

Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet or loaf pan and shape into a loaf. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until almost cooked through.

Step 4: Add Swiss and Finish Baking

Top the meatloaf with the remaining caramelized onions and Swiss cheese slices. Return to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it stay juicy and keeps the layers intact when served.

How to Serve and Store French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss

This recipe feeds about 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. When serving, cut thick slices and plate them with a spoonful of extra caramelized onions and melted Swiss. If you have some reserved beef broth gravy, drizzle it over the top for extra richness.

For leftovers, store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through or in the microwave in short bursts. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months—wrap them tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag.

What to Serve With French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss?

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Creamy mashed potatoes are a must, and the tang of cream cheese complements the richness of the meatloaf beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus brings brightness and a bit of crunch, balancing the meatloaf’s softness.

Garlic Butter Green Beans

These keep things light and garlicky, adding just enough flavor to enhance without overpowering.

Creamy Mushroom Ravioli

If you want a truly indulgent meal, pair it with something like creamy mushroom ravioli for double comfort.

Classic Caprese Salad

A Caprese salad adds fresh contrast and acidity that cuts through the heaviness of the meatloaf.

French Bread or Dinner Rolls

You’ll want something to mop up any leftover cheese and onion gravy on the plate.

Crispy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls

For an unexpected twist, serve these crispy bites on the side to add a fun, spicy crunch.

Buttery Corn on the Cob

Corn adds a touch of sweetness and texture that pairs so well with the savory profile of this meatloaf.

Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If this French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss made your dinner table feel extra cozy, wait until you try these other comforting meals from Janet Dishes:

• Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese for the ultimate cheesy side or main.
• Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes and Mushrooms is full of rich flavor and veggie-packed goodness.
• Tasty Deconstructed Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Rolls brings all the comfort of the classic dish with none of the rolling.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a spicy, creamy pasta night winner.
• Homemade Big Mac Wraps with Secret Sauce if you’re craving a fast-food favorite made from scratch.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra cheesy on top? Did you sneak in mushrooms or use Gruyère instead of Swiss?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. If you have questions while you’re cooking, drop them below. Let’s make dinner better together.

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Conclusion

French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be boring. It’s satisfying, savory, and just elevated enough to impress guests or add flair to your weekly rotation. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite way to do meatloaf.