Looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner idea? This 2 lb meatloaf with French onion soup mix recipe is the perfect dish that combines traditional tastes with a savory twist. The addition of French onion soup mix brings a burst of flavor that makes this meatloaf stand out. Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and a hearty family dinner ready in no time!
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 packet French onion soup mix (1.5 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
- Spatula
- Oven mitts
- Serving platter
Total Time:
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Baking: 1 hour
- Resting: 10 minutes
How to Make 2 lb Meatloaf with French Onion Soup Mix Recipe
This easy meatloaf recipe with French onion soup mix is a breeze to prepare. Follow the steps below for the best results.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients (Time Needed: 5 Minutes)
Gather all the ingredients and equipment needed. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients (Time Needed: 5 Minutes)
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, eggs, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything until well combined.
Step 3: Shape the Meatloaf (Time Needed: 3 Minutes)
Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the loaf pan. Pat down the top to smooth it out and add a layer of ketchup for extra flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Meatloaf (Time Needed: 1 Hour)
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) to ensure the meatloaf is cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Serve (Time Needed: 10 Minutes)
After baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meatloaf moist and flavorful. Once rested, transfer to a serving platter and slice it up.
Tips for the Best French Onion Meatloaf Recipe with Onion Soup Mix
To get the best flavor from this French onion meatloaf recipe with onion soup mix, here are some helpful tips:
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, make sure to mix gently. Overmixing can make the meatloaf dense and tough.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh eggs and high-quality ground beef make a huge difference in the taste.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
Why Use French Onion Soup Mix in Meatloaf?
Adding French onion soup mix to meatloaf enhances the flavor profile with savory onion goodness, which complements the beef perfectly. This is what makes this recipe one of the easiest and most flavorful meatloaf recipes with French onion soup mix.
Variations to Try
Add Vegetables
For a more nutritious twist, try adding finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms into the mixture. It will add a pop of color and extra flavor.
Swap the Beef
For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This still results in a delicious easy meatloaf recipe with French onion soup mix, but with fewer calories.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. It adds a nice cheesy crust to the top.
How to Store and Reheat Meatloaf
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, wrap it in aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use a microwave or place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a bit of water or broth while reheating keeps the meatloaf moist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Meatloaf Recipes with French Onion Soup Mix
How Long Should I Cook a 2 lb Meatloaf?
A 2 lb meatloaf should be baked for about 1 hour at 350°F (175°C). Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (70°C).
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or chicken. This will create a different but still delicious version of the French onion meatloaf recipe with onion soup mix.
Can I Make Meatloaf Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatloaf mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for busy evenings when you want an easy meatloaf recipe with French onion soup mix ready to go.
Can I Use a Different Sauce Instead of Ketchup?
If you prefer something different, try topping the meatloaf with barbecue sauce or tomato paste mixed with a bit of brown sugar. It adds a different dimension to the flavor, but still works perfectly with the French onion soup mix.
Serving Suggestions for Meatloaf with French Onion Soup Mix Recipe
This meatloaf with French onion soup mix recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides. Here are some suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the meatloaf juices.
- Green Beans: A side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus adds some greens to the plate.
- Buttered Rolls: Warm buttered dinner rolls are perfect for a comforting, homestyle meal.
Easy Meatloaf Recipe with French Onion Soup Mix for Special Occasions
This easy meatloaf recipe with French onion soup mix is ideal not just for weeknight dinners but also for family gatherings. The savory flavors combined with the simple preparation make it a favorite dish that everyone will love.
Whether it’s a cozy night in or a casual family celebration, this French onion meatloaf recipe is sure to impress. The recipe is versatile and can be easily doubled to serve larger crowds.
Troubleshooting Common Meatloaf Problems
Why is My Meatloaf Falling Apart?
If your meatloaf is falling apart, it’s likely due to a lack of binding agents like eggs or breadcrumbs. These help hold the loaf together, giving it structure.
How Do I Make My Meatloaf Moist?
To keep your meatloaf moist, don’t overcook it. The addition of milk in the mixture helps to add moisture, and letting it rest before slicing ensures it remains juicy.
Can I Make Meatloaf Without Breadcrumbs?
If you want to skip the breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, rolled oats, or even panko as a substitute. It keeps the texture similar while still holding everything together.
Healthier Meatloaf Recipes with French Onion Soup Mix
If you want a healthier twist on the classic meatloaf with French onion soup mix recipe, consider the following adjustments:
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
- Reduce the amount of ketchup used or replace it with a low-sugar version.
- Add more vegetables like finely chopped spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
Wrapping Up
This 2 lb meatloaf with French onion soup mix recipe is truly a comforting classic, bursting with savory flavors and easy enough for any night of the week. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meatloaf ready to share with family or friends.
The French onion soup mix adds that extra level of taste that turns a regular meatloaf into something special, making it one of the best meatloaf recipes with French onion soup mix. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a wholesome and satisfying meal.