Name: French Onion Meatballs
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Butter; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 2 large Onions (sliced 1/4-inch thick); 1.5 pounds Lean ground beef; 1 large Egg (lightly beaten); 1/3 cup Dry bread crumbs; 1/3 cup Milk; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Herbs de Provence; 1 tablespoon Flour; 2 cups Beef broth; 2 teaspoons Chopped fresh thyme; 14 slices Fresh baguette (thin); 1 cup Shredded Gruyere cheese; Chopped fresh parsley; Mashed potatoes (for serving)

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the combination of flavors in French Onion Meatballs. I remember the first time I decided to make them; it was a chilly evening, and I craved something warm and hearty. The aroma of caramelized onions and melting cheese filled my kitchen, transporting me back to my favorite bistro where I first tasted this dish. It’s a fusion of rich flavors that brings together the classic taste of French onion soup with the satisfying bite of meatballs. You can’t help but smile as you take that first bite, where savory beef mingles perfectly with the sweet, caramelized onions and gooey cheese. Trust me, once you try making French Onion Meatballs, it will become one of your go-to recipes for cozy nights in or even for entertaining guests. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of this dish!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
42 mins

Prep Time:
12 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Oven, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

The Best Thing About This French Onion Meatballs

1. A Warm, Comforting Meal

The primary reason I adore French Onion Meatballs is that they perfectly marry comfort food with gourmet flair. Every bowl or plate is a tribute to hearty meals that warm you from the inside out. They remind me of family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and the delicious aroma keeps everyone linger around the kitchen.

2. Easy to Make

Don’t let the gourmet aspect fool you; this dish is surprisingly simple to whip up! With just a few ingredients and some love, you can create a meal that feels fancy without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll find yourself making these meatballs more often than you think!

3. Versatile Serving Options

Whether you serve them with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or even stuffed in a sandwich, French Onion Meatballs fit any occasion. They can transition from a casual family dinner to a sophisticated gathering just like that. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep!

4. A Unique Flavor Profile

The unique combination of sweet, caramelized onions, and rich Gruyère cheese adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. Each bite is a delightful experience that is both savory and satisfying. Your taste buds will thank you as they revel in the melty goodness!

5. Wonderful Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (although I doubt you will), they hold up beautifully in the fridge. The flavors continue to meld, making for a delicious meal the next day that’s just as good, if not better. You can easily reheat them for a quick lunch or dinner!

What You Need for French Onion Meatballs

The ingredients for French Onion Meatballs are a harmonious blend that creates a robust flavor profile. Each element plays a role, from the perfectly browned meatballs to the sweet, caramelized onions that form the base of the sauce. Let’s explore the key players in this delicious ensemble!

2 tablespoons butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor that’s essential for sautéing the onions.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps in cooking the onions to perfection, giving them a nice golden color.
2 large onions, sliced 1/4-inch thick: The star of the show; they caramelize beautifully and add sweetness to the dish.
1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef: Serves as the hearty base for our meatballs, ensuring they’re satisfying.
1 large egg, lightly beaten: Binds the ingredients together for a perfect meatball texture.
1/3 cup dry bread crumbs: Adds texture and helps to absorb moisture, keeping the meatballs tender.
1/3 cup milk: Keeps the meatballs moist and adds richness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon pepper: A touch of warmth to balance the sweetness of the onions.
1/2 teaspoon herbs de Provence: This blend of herbs elevates the dish with aromatic notes.
1 tablespoon flour: Used to thicken the sauce and give it a luscious texture.
2 cups beef broth: Forms the base of the sauce, adding depth and richness.
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme: Fresh herbs bring brightness to the dish.
14 thin slices fresh baguette: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese: Melts beautifully and provides that classic cheesy topping.
Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish, adding a fresh touch.
Mashed potatoes for serving: A comforting side that pairs perfectly with the meatballs!

Preparation Steps for French Onion Meatballs

Preparing French Onion Meatballs is a delightful process, filled with enticing aromas and satisfying steps. It’s all about layering flavors and taking your time to achieve the perfect caramelization. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil, ensuring easy cleanup later. Spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a large cast iron skillet, add the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. As the butter melts, you’ll start to smell that rich, comforting scent filling your kitchen.
Add the onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally. You’re aiming for a beautiful light brown color, which will take about 25 minutes. Don’t rush this step; caramelized onions can elevate the dish significantly!
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the lean ground beef, egg, dry bread crumbs, milk, salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence. Mix gently to combine, but be careful not to overwork the meat.
Shape the mixture into 14 to 16 meatballs, ensuring they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Once the onions are caramelized to your liking, sprinkle the flour over them. Stir to incorporate and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This step will help thicken your sauce.
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, bringing it to a boil. The mixture should start to thicken slightly. Add the fresh thyme, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Reduce the heat to low and keep the sauce warm as you finish the meatballs. Bake the meatballs in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes until they are cooked through.
When the meatballs are done, gently add them to the cast iron skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir to coat the meatballs in that luscious sauce.
While the meatballs are mingling with the sauce, place the baguette slices on the same baking sheet. Stick them under the broiler until they become a little crispy, which should take just a few minutes.
Finally, nestle the crispy baguette slices between the meatballs and sprinkle the Gruyere cheese over everything. Place the skillet under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, and perhaps a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t Rush the Onions: Caramelizing the onions properly is key. You want them to be soft and golden, which adds a depth of flavor to your sauce.
Meatball Size Matters: Make sure all meatballs are uniform in size to ensure they cook evenly.
Keep it Warm: After adding the meatballs to the sauce, keep the heat low to prevent the sauce from burning.
Broiling Cheese: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling; it can go from beautifully melted to burnt quickly.

Expert Tips about French Onion Meatballs

When making French Onion Meatballs, a few expert tips can elevate your dish to the next level. Here are some of my favorites to keep in mind.

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to retain moisture.
Freezing: These meatballs can be frozen! After cooking, let them cool down completely and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for about 3 months.
Pairing: Serve French Onion Meatballs with a light salad for a refreshing contrast, or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold.
Serving Suggestions: These meatballs are delicious over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes, making them very versatile!

Accompaniments for French Onion Meatballs

When it comes to serving French Onion Meatballs, the options are endless. Here’s how to create a delightful dining experience:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect base to soak up the delicious sauce. The combination is a comfort food classic.
Crusty Breads: Serve with a side of fresh baguette or any crusty bread for the ultimate dipping experience.
Seasonal Salads: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish beautifully.
Wine Pairing: A light white wine or a crisp rosé complements the savory flavors remarkably well, making the dish feel even more special.
Family Dinners: This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, serving as a warm, inviting meal that everyone will love.
Game Day: Consider serving these meatballs as sliders for game day gatherings, making them easy to enjoy as finger food!

FAQ

Serving French Onion Meatballs is all about pairing with comforting sides. Creamy mashed potatoes are a fantastic choice, soaking up the rich sauce. A light, fresh salad can also balance the flavors beautifully. If you want to elevate the dish, serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up all that delicious gravy. You can even turn them into sliders for game day, making them easy to enjoy as finger food!

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just shape them and refrigerate; when you’re ready to cook, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold. This means you can enjoy French Onion Meatballs on a busy weeknight without spending too much time in the kitchen!

Yes, French Onion Meatballs are great for freezing! After cooking, let them cool completely and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept in the freezer for about 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them up on the stovetop or in the oven for a quick meal that’s just as delicious as the first time!

If you have any leftovers of French Onion Meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the stovetop to maintain moisture and flavor. You can add a splash of beef broth to keep the meatballs juicy. They also make for an excellent lunch option!

Conclusion

In conclusion, French Onion Meatballs are a perfect combination of hearty flavors and comforting textures, making them a dish everyone will love. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe elevates any meal. I encourage you to try it, and I promise it will quickly become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the deliciousness and warmth this dish brings to your table!