Meatloaf is a classic comfort food dish that has been a staple on dinner tables for generations. While the traditional recipe is undeniably delicious, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up and try new variations.
One such variation is the French onion meatloaf, which combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with the hearty and satisfying texture of meatloaf.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 envelope dry onion soup mix
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup French onion dip
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, dry onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure it is evenly spread out.
- Spread the French onion dip evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Arrange the sliced onions on top of the cheese.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Expert Tips for Premium Results:
To take your French onion meatloaf to the next level, try incorporating these expert tips into your preparation:
- For an added boost of flavor, mix in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme into the meatloaf mixture.
- You can also use a mixture of ground beef and ground pork for a more complex flavor profile.
- For an extra indulgent touch, top the cooked meatloaf with additional French onion dip and mozzarella cheese before serving.
- To save time, you can use pre-sliced onions from the store or thinly slice the onion with a mandoline.
Safety Precautions:
When handling raw meat, it’s important to take proper precautions to prevent foodborne illnesses. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when making French onion meatloaf:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
- Use a separate cutting board for raw meat and make sure to wash it well before using it for other ingredients.
- Cook the meatloaf to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide:
If you’re new to making meatloaf or just want a refresher, here is a step-by-step guide to help you make the perfect French onion meatloaf:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, dry onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Press the meatloaf mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, making sure it is evenly spread out.
- Spread the French onion dip evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Arrange the sliced onions on top of the cheese.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the meatloaf is cooked through.
- Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the meatloaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken or a combination of meats instead of ground beef for a healthier option.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze individual slices of the meatloaf in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
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