Description
French onion meatballs combine the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with tender, juicy meatballs. Smothered in a caramelized onion gravy and topped with melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese, this dish is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or an elegant meal to impress guests. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Onion Gravy:
2 tbsp butter
2 large onions, thinly sliced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp sugar
1 tsp balsamic vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
Caramelize the Onions:
- While the meatballs bake, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes until deeply golden brown.
- Stir in balsamic vinegar and garlic, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
Make the Gravy:
- Sprinkle flour over the caramelized onions, stirring to coat.
- Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Add the baked meatballs to the skillet, spooning the onion gravy over them.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover the skillet until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.
Notes
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.
Use a different protein: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
Cheese alternatives: Provolone or mozzarella work well if Gruyère or Swiss isn’t available.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute cornstarch for flour in the gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop & Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
