Meatloaf might just be the ultimate comfort food—it’s hearty, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. But let’s be honest: not all meatloaves are created equal. Some turn out dry, bland, or (worst of all) brick-like. Not this one! This French onion meatloaf recipe takes things up a notch by using French onion soup mix to infuse every bite with rich, savory goodness.
If you grew up with a parent or grandparent making meatloaf, this one will hit you with all the nostalgia—but with an even better taste. And if you’ve never been a meatloaf fan before, trust me, this recipe will convert you.
Why You’ll Love This Meatloaf Recipe with French Onion Soup Mix
✔️ Packed with Flavor – The French onion soup mix adds an irresistible depth of flavor without needing a long list of seasonings.
✔️ Easy to Make – Just mix, shape, and bake—perfect for busy weeknights.
✔️ Tender & Juicy – No more dry, sad meatloaf! The eggs, breadcrumbs, and water create the perfect texture.
✔️ Family-Approved – Even picky eaters won’t be able to resist.
This one has been on repeat in my house because my kids, Emma and Liam, are obsessed with it. I’m talking zero leftovers kind of obsessed.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- ¾ cup water
- ⅓ cup ketchup
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Optional Glaze (Highly Recommended!)
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ tablespoon ground mustard
How to Make This French Onion Meatloaf Recipe
1. Prep Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a loaf pan, a meatloaf pan, or line a baking dish with foil and give it a light spray of non-stick cooking spray.
2. Mix It Up
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the onion soup mix, eggs, water, and ketchup until everything is well combined.
3. Add the Meat & Breadcrumbs
Toss in the ground beef and breadcrumbs, and gently mix until everything is just combined. (Pro tip: Use your hands—it’s messy, but it works best!)
4. Shape & Bake
Form the meat mixture into a loaf and place it in your prepared pan. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, checking for doneness around the 1-hour mark. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (according to USDA food safety guidelines)..
5. Make the Glaze (Optional, but So Worth It!)
While the meatloaf is baking, warm up the ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
6. Glaze & Serve
Brush the sweet and tangy glaze over the meatloaf, let it set for a few minutes, then slice and serve!
Tips for the Best French Onion Soup Meatloaf
👉 Don’t overmix – Stirring too much makes the meatloaf dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
👉 Use a meat thermometer – No one wants overcooked, dry meatloaf. 165°F is the magic number.
👉 Let it rest – Give it 5-10 minutes after baking so the juices redistribute (instead of running out onto your plate).
How to Serve This French Onion Meatloaf Recipe
This meatloaf practically begs to be served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of roasted green beans. If you want to go all out, add a buttery dinner roll and maybe even some crockpot French onion meatloaf with Swiss cheese (yes, that’s a thing, and it’s amazing).
How to Store Leftovers
🥶 Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
❄️ Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
🔥 Reheating Tip: Pop a slice in the microwave with a splash of water and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.
Common Questions
Can I make this into a crockpot French onion meatloaf?
Absolutely! Shape the meatloaf and place it in your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Can I swap ground beef for another protein?
Yes! Ground turkey or ground pork work well, but they’ll need a little extra moisture—try adding an extra egg or a splash of milk.
What if I don’t have Lipton Onion Soup Mix?
No problem! Mix together ¼ cup dried minced onions, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon salt for a homemade version.
This French onion meatloaf recipe is a must-try if you love an easy, flavorful dinner that makes the whole house smell amazing. Give it a shot, and let me know how it turns out—I bet it’ll be a new family favorite!
5-Ingredient Easy French Onion Meatloaf
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 envelope Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- ¾ cup water
- ⅓ cup ketchup for meatloaf mixture
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup ketchup for glaze
- ¼ cup brown sugar for glaze
- ½ tablespoon ground mustard for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line a baking dish with foil and spray with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the onion soup mix, eggs, water, and ⅓ cup ketchup until well combined.
- Add ground beef, bread crumbs, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Form the meat mixture into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While meatloaf is baking, make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Brush glaze over the cooked meatloaf and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing.