French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

French onion meatloaf with melted Swiss cheese takes a classic comfort food and gives it a gourmet twist. Juicy, savory meatloaf is infused with caramelized onions and topped with gooey, melty Swiss cheese, creating flavors reminiscent of French onion soup. It’s hearty, cozy, and perfect for a family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms ordinary meatloaf into something extra special. The caramelized onions add sweetness and depth, the beef is juicy and flavorful, and the melted Swiss on top makes it irresistibly cheesy. I also like how the dish feels familiar but a little more elegant, making it great for both weeknights and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• Onion, thinly sliced

• Butter or olive oil

• Garlic, minced

• Bread crumbs

• Egg

• Beef broth

• Worcestershire sauce

• Thyme (fresh or dried)

• Salt and black pepper

• Swiss cheese slices

• Optional: parsley, for garnish

Directions

I begin by slowly caramelizing the onions in butter or olive oil until they’re soft, golden, and sweet. I add garlic near the end to release its aroma.

In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef with bread crumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, beef broth, some of the caramelized onions, salt, and pepper. I shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.

I bake the meatloaf until nearly cooked through, then top it with the remaining caramelized onions and Swiss cheese. I return it to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once rested, I slice and serve with extra onions spooned over the top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It usually takes me 20 minutes to prep, 50–55 minutes to bake, and 10 minutes to rest—so dinner is ready in around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I mix ground beef with pork or veal for a richer flavor. I also like to add a splash of red wine when cooking the onions for extra depth. For a spicier twist, I’ve added a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover slices with foil and warm them in the oven, or gently heat them in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep them moist. Meatloaf also freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the meatloaf up to a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it when ready.

What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?

I sometimes use provolone, mozzarella, or Gruyère as substitutes, and they all melt beautifully.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

I make sure not to overmix the meat and always let the meatloaf rest after baking so the juices redistribute.

Can I cook this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but I prefer shaping it free-form on a baking sheet so the cheese and onions can sit nicely on top without excess grease pooling.

What sides go well with this meatloaf?

I like serving it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness.

Conclusion

French onion meatloaf with melted Swiss cheese is one of my favorite cozy dinners because it combines the best of two comfort foods. I love how the sweet caramelized onions and gooey Swiss elevate the dish into something special. Whether I make it for a family meal or to impress guests, it’s always warmly received and full of flavor.