French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns a traditional meatloaf into something totally crave-worthy. The French onion flavor adds depth, while the Swiss cheese melts beautifully over the top. It’s a cozy, satisfying dinner that feels elevated without being complicated. Whether I’m cooking for family or just myself, this meatloaf always brings comfort to the table.

Ingredients

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

• Ground beef

• French onion soup mix (dry packet)

• Breadcrumbs

• Eggs

• Milk

• Worcestershire sauce

• Garlic powder

• Onion (optional, finely chopped for extra flavor)

• Swiss cheese slices

• Optional: fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet or loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, I combine the ground beef, dry French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and chopped onion.

3. I mix everything gently with my hands until just combined—being careful not to overmix.

4. I shape the meat mixture into a loaf and place it on the prepared pan.

5. I bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

6. I then lay the Swiss cheese slices over the top and return the loaf to the oven for 5–7 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. I let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. It takes 10–15 minutes to prep and around 50–60 minutes to bake, so dinner’s ready in just over an hour, including resting time.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms to the meat mixture for even more of that French onion vibe. I’ve also swapped Swiss for provolone or gruyère if that’s what I have on hand. For a leaner version, I use ground turkey or a beef-pork blend. A drizzle of beef gravy or caramelized onions on top is another way I like to dress it up.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes, or microwave them in short bursts with a splash of water to keep them moist. This meatloaf also freezes well—I wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this meatloaf ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep the meatloaf mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. I bake it fresh the next day.

What if I don’t have Swiss cheese?

I can use provolone, mozzarella, or even cheddar in a pinch. Any good melting cheese works.

How do I prevent the meatloaf from drying out?

I make sure not to overmix the meat and always let it rest after baking. The eggs and milk also help keep it moist.

Can I use canned French onion soup instead of the dry mix?

For this recipe, I stick with the dry mix. Canned soup adds too much moisture and changes the texture of the meatloaf.

What sides go well with this meatloaf?

I usually serve it with mashed potatoes, green beans, or roasted carrots. A crisp side salad is also a great match.

Conclusion

French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese is the kind of dish I make when I want something familiar but with a delicious twist. It’s rich, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors that make any night feel special. If I’m looking for a cozy meal with minimal fuss, this meatloaf never disappoints.