This isn’t your average meatloaf—it’s the kind of dish that takes familiar flavors and turns them into something truly memorable. With sweet, golden caramelized onions folded into the tender meat mixture and more layered on top, plus a blanket of melted Swiss cheese, every slice is rich, savory, and deeply comforting.

Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or when you want to impress guests with a homestyle dish that feels restaurant-worthy, this make-ahead friendly recipe is hearty, kid-approved, and destined to become a family favorite.

French Onion Meatloaf with Melted Swiss Cheese

Instructions

1. Caramelize the onions
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sugar, cooking until golden and caramelized, about 20 minutes.
2. Mix the meatloaf base
   In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, milk, Worcestershire, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Add onions
   Fold most of the caramelized onions into the meat mixture, reserving some for topping.
4. Shape and top
   Transfer mixture to a loaf pan, pressing gently to form an even loaf. Top with reserved onions.
5. First bake
   Bake for 45 minutes, until nearly cooked through and beginning to brown.
6. Add cheese and finish
   Sprinkle Swiss cheese over the top. Return to oven for 15 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and serve
   Let meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for tender, flavorful slices.