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## **Instructions**
### **1. Caramelize the Onions**
1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions (if you’re caramelizing fresh onions instead of using French onion soup) and cook, stirring occasionally, for about **25-30 minutes** until the onions are golden brown and soft. Make sure to stir every few minutes to prevent burning.
2. If using French onion soup, skip this step and use the soup directly in the next stage.
### **2. Prepare the Meatloaf Mixture**
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
2. Once the caramelized onions have cooled slightly (if using fresh onions), mix them into the meat mixture, or pour in the French onion soup if you’re going that route. Mix until everything is just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Transfer the meat mixture into a loaf pan and shape it into a loaf shape. Alternatively, you can shape it by hand and place it on a lined baking sheet for a more rustic presentation.
### **3. Bake the Meatloaf**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Place the meatloaf in the preheated oven and bake for about **1 hour** or until the meatloaf reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
3. While the meatloaf is baking, prepare the glaze (if using). In a small bowl, combine ketchup, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and set aside.
### **4. Glaze the Meatloaf (Optional)**
1. About 10 minutes before the meatloaf is done baking, brush the top with the prepared glaze mixture. Return it to the oven and bake for the remaining time to allow the glaze to set and caramelize.
### **5. Serve and Enjoy**
1. Once baked, let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
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## **Tips & Variations**
– **Make it ahead:** This meatloaf can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
– **Cheese lovers:** Add shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese into the meat mixture or on top of the meatloaf before baking for extra flavor.
– **Low-carb version:** Swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour or crushed pork rinds if you’re following a low-carb diet.
– **Vegetarian version:** Try substituting the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian version of this dish.
### **Why You’ll Love French Onion Meatloaf**
– **Comforting & Flavorful:** It combines all the best qualities of a classic meatloaf with the irresistible taste of French onion soup.
– **Great for Leftovers:** The flavors intensify the next day, so it makes for excellent leftovers.
– **Easy to Make:** With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a flavorful and filling dinner in no time.
This *French Onion Meatloaf* is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist—rich, savory, and oh-so-delicious!
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