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French Onion Meatballs

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French Onion Meatballs feature juicy beef meatballs simmered in rich caramelized onion sauce and topped with melted cheese, inspired by classic French onion soup. This comforting, savory dish is perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

  • For the meatballs:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • For the onion sauce:
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For topping:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Form mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly grease. Brown meatballs on all sides for 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions and cook over medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized.
  5. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Return meatballs to the skillet and spoon onion sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked.
  7. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the meatballs.
  8. Transfer skillet to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • Caramelize onions slowly for the best deep, sweet flavor.
  • A meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked beef meatballs.
  • Substitute Swiss cheese for a more traditional flavor profile.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooled meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/french-onion-meatballs/