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French Onion Meatballs Recipe
Callie Brooks

French Onion Meatballs Recipe

This French Onion Meatballs Recipe transforms classic ground beef into a cozy, indulgent dish with rich caramelized onions, melted cheese, and a savory broth-based sauce — inspired by French onion soup. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 470
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 small egg, beaten
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss)
  • Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • skillet or Dutch oven
  • wooden spoon
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • broiler or oven

Method
 

  1. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Parmesan, onion, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Form into 1 inch meatballs.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet or Dutch oven and brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add sliced onions to the same skillet and cook over medium-low for 15–20 minutes until golden and soft.
  4. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add flour and stir to coat. Slowly whisk in broth and wine. Add Worcestershire, thyme, and pepper.
  5. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes or bake at 375°F for same time until cooked through.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over meatballs and place under broiler for 2–3 minutes until melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 470kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 33gFat: 31gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 115mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 480mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 320IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 220mgIron: 3.1mg

Notes

Use 80/20 ground beef for juicier results. Caramelize onions low and slow for best flavor. Swap ground turkey for a lighter version. Top with mozzarella if Gruyère isn't available. Serve over mashed potatoes, noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

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