Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Onion:
In a skillet, cook the sliced onion in a small amount of oil over medium heat until caramelized. Add minced garlic toward the end of cooking. Set aside.
Mix the Meatloaf Batter:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, tomato paste, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Add Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheese into the meatloaf mixture.
Form the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan, pressing it down firmly. Spread the caramelized onions over the top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
What to Serve with Meatloaf
While this meatloaf is a complete meal on its own, you can enhance it with:
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, celery, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrients and flavor contrast.
Classic Side Salad: A green salad with a light dressing to balance the richness.
Mashed Potatoes or Pasta: For a heartier meal, pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a side of pasta.
Top Tips for Perfecting Meatloaf
Moist Meat: To ensure a juicy meatloaf, mix in a small amount of milk alongside breadcrumbs.
Caramelize Slowly: Cook onions on low heat for a sweeter, more intensely flavored topping.
Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage: Cool the meatloaf completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual slices on high for 1-2 minutes.
Conclusion
The "Perfect Meatloaf Recipes with Caramelized Onion and Cheese" is a testament to culinary innovation, blending classic comfort food with bold, fresh flavors. Whether you're cooking for loved ones or enjoying it solo, this dish offers a rich, satisfying experience that's impossible to resist. Why not give it a try and enjoy the fruits of your creativity? Happy cooking!