Mediterranean French Onion Meatloaf

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🧆 Mediterranean French Onion Meatloaf

Description

This Mediterranean French Onion Meatloaf takes the comforting flavors of traditional French onion soup and combines them with Mediterranean ingredients for a rich, flavorful twist on a classic dish. Juicy ground beef (or a beef-lamb mix) is infused with caramelized onions, garlic, herbs, and a touch of feta, then topped with a savory onion glaze. Each slice bursts with umami depth and herbaceous brightness — perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf:

  • 1 ½ lbs ground beef (or half beef and half lamb)

  • 1 cup caramelized onions (about 2 large onions cooked down)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)

  • ¼ cup milk or Greek yogurt

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese

  • 2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional but flavorful)

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp thyme

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For the French Onion Glaze:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar

  • ½ cup beef broth

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

  • ½ tsp honey (optional, for balance)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. Caramelize Onions:
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook sliced onions in olive oil until golden and deeply caramelized (about 20–25 minutes). Remove half for the glaze and set aside the rest for the meatloaf mixture.

  3. Mix the Meatloaf:
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, caramelized onions, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, milk, feta, herbs, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).

  4. Shape and Bake:
    Transfer the mixture into the loaf pan and press evenly. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F/70°C).

  5. Make the Glaze:
    While the meatloaf bakes, heat the reserved caramelized onions with balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce in a skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

  6. Glaze and Finish:
    Once the meatloaf is nearly done, spoon the onion glaze on top and return to the oven for the final 10 minutes. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

  7. Serve:
    Slice and serve warm, topped with extra sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or feta.

Notes

  • For extra depth, use a mix of beef and lamb or turkey for a lighter version.

  • You can replace feta with goat cheese or grated Parmesan.

  • Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the loaf mixture a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake before serving.

Tips

  • Don’t overmix the meat mixture; it can make the loaf dense.

  • Caramelize onions slowly — they add the signature French onion sweetness and depth.

  • Use parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.

  • Pairing idea: Serve with roasted potatoes, a simple salad, or lemon orzo for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Servings

  • Makes 6 servings (approx. 1-inch slices).

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 365

  • Protein: 29g

  • Fat: 22g

  • Carbohydrates: 11g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugars: 3g

  • Sodium: 510mg

  • Calcium: 90mg

Health Benefits

  • Rich in protein to support muscle repair.

  • Onions and garlic provide antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds.

  • Feta cheese adds calcium and probiotics.

  • Mediterranean herbs like oregano and thyme have anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Balanced nutrients for a satisfying, wholesome main dish.

Q&A Section

Q1: Can I make this meatloaf gluten-free?
Yes — simply replace breadcrumbs with almond flour, oat flour, or gluten-free panko.

Q2: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely! Freeze slices or the whole loaf (wrapped tightly) for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warm.

Q3: What’s a good vegetarian substitute?
Use lentils, mashed chickpeas, or a mix of mushrooms and quinoa in place of meat.

Q4: Can I use caramelized onions from a jar?
Yes, but homemade caramelized onions provide a much deeper flavor and less sugar.

Q5: What can I serve it with?
Try serving with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or Mediterranean salad for a balanced meal.

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