These French Onion Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic meatball dish, combining the rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory beef, and gooey cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, these meatballs are sure to impress. The luscious onion sauce, enhanced with sherry, adds depth and warmth that elevates the entire meal, making it suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions with beef creates a savory depth that is simply irresistible.
- Cheesy Goodness: Topped with Gruyere and mozzarella, each bite is a cheesy delight that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile Dish: Serve these meatballs over pasta, mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty bread for a delicious meal any time.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow.
- Hearty Meal: Packed with protein and flavor, these meatballs make for a satisfying main course.
Tools and Preparation
To make French onion meatballs successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you start cooking.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or heavy-bottom oven-safe pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Garlic press
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for browning meatballs perfectly.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all meatball ingredients without mess.
- Garlic press: Ensures evenly minced garlic for maximum flavor infusion.
Ingredients
These French onion meatballs are nestled into a rich, savory onion sauce kissed with sherry, then topped with Gruyere and mozzarella cheeses!
For the Meatballs
- 1 1/2 cups fresh breadcrumbs (or panko breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1 1/2 pounds organic ground beef (85/15 ratio)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
- Salt (about 1 teaspoon, or your desired amount)
- Black pepper (about 1/4 teaspoon, or your desired amount)
- 1/2 large white onion, finely minced
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
- 3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese, divided use
- 1 egg, whisked
For the Sauce
- 1 cup shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided use
- 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
- 2 1/2 large white onions, halved and sliced
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
- 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 cup sherry (or white wine)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons flour
- 2 1/4 cups beef stock
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
How to Make French Onion Meatballs
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Begin by gathering and prepping all of your meatball ingredients according to the ingredient list above to have ready and organized for use.
Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture
Place your breadcrumbs into a dish and add the milk to them to soak for 5 minutes. In the meantime, place your ground beef into a large bowl.
Step 3: Combine Meatball Ingredients
After the breadcrumbs have soaked:
– Add them to the ground beef along with parsley, thyme, herbes de Provence, salt, pepper, minced onion, garlic, 1/4 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese, and whisked egg.
– Using clean hands gently mix until well combined but be careful not to over mix.
Step 4: Form the Meatballs
Scoop out 2 tablespoon-size portions of the mixture (a cookie scoop works great) and place them onto a tray. Wet your hands slightly and roll each portion into round meatballs. Chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Brown the Meatballs
In a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat:
– Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
– Once hot, add a batch of meatballs and sear them on all sides for about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer browned meatballs onto a tray while finishing up.
Step 6: Caramelize Onions
In the same skillet:
– Add another 2 tablespoons of oil if needed along with ghee or butter.
– Once melted add sliced onions with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook down until deeply caramelized (about 20-25 minutes), stirring frequently until dark and jammy.
Step 7: Make the Sauce
Once onions are caramelized:
– Stir in garlic, herbes de Provence and dried thyme until aromatic (about 30 seconds).
– Add sherry or wine; let bubble up for about 30 seconds.
– Sprinkle flour into pan; stir for about 30 seconds before pouring in beef stock. Whisk until smooth; allow sauce to simmer for about five minutes.
Step 8: Broil Meatballs
Preheat your broiler on high.
– Turn off heat under sauce; stir in fresh thyme leaves.
– Nestle browned meatballs back into sauce; top with Gruyere and mozzarella cheeses.
– Place under broiler for about 5 to 7 minutes until cheese is melted.
Step 9: Serve Your Dish
Sprinkle additional thyme leaves over meatballs as garnish. Spoon several meatballs along with plenty of sauce into bowls. Enjoy warm with toasted bread or over mashed potatoes if desired!
How to Serve French Onion Meatballs
French onion meatballs are versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Toasted Bread
- Serve these delicious meatballs on slices of warm, toasted bread. The crispy texture complements the rich sauce perfectly.
Over Mashed Potatoes
- For a comforting option, spoon the meatballs and sauce over creamy mashed potatoes. This combination creates a hearty and satisfying dish.
In a Submarine Sandwich
- Place the meatballs inside a crusty sub roll. Add extra melted cheese for a gooey, indulgent sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
On a Bed of Pasta
- Nestle the meatballs atop your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti. Drizzle with additional sauce to enhance the flavor.
As an Appetizer
- Serve smaller versions of these meatballs as bite-sized appetizers at parties. They pair wonderfully with toothpicks for easy serving.
With a Side Salad
- Balance out the richness of the meatballs with a fresh green salad. A light vinaigrette adds brightness and contrast to the dish.
How to Perfect French Onion Meatballs
Creating the perfect French onion meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a success every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality beef will enhance the overall flavor of your meatballs.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until combined to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
- Sear Well: Ensure you brown the meatballs properly for added flavor from caramelization.
- Caramelize Onions Slowly: Take your time with the onions in the sauce; this step is key for achieving that rich, sweet flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
- Broil Carefully: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to prevent burning; you want it golden and bubbly.
Best Side Dishes for French Onion Meatballs
Pairing side dishes with French onion meatballs can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options that complement their savory flavors beautifully.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich onion sauce that accompanies the meatballs.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables provides a healthy balance to this hearty meal.
- Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of French onion meatballs.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add color and freshness, enhancing your plate.
- Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is creamy and complements the dish well.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, cutting through the richness of the meatballs.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs offers a nutritious option that balances out heavier elements of the meal.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with savory flavors, making them an excellent choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making French onion meatballs can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes that could prevent them from being perfect. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Ignoring the Meat Mixture: Overmixing the meatball mixture can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined to keep them tender.
- Skipping the Chill: Not chilling the formed meatballs can result in them falling apart during cooking. Always refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before browning.
- Rushing the Onions: Caramelizing onions takes time. Don’t rush this step; low and slow is key for deep flavor and sweetness.
- Inadequate Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland meatballs. Taste your mixture before forming meatballs and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Neglecting Cheese Options: Sticking only to one type of cheese might limit flavor. Experiment with different cheeses for a more complex taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the meatballs to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing French Onion Meatballs
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating French Onion Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock if needed, and cook until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making French onion meatballs.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for French Onion Meatballs?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative! Just be cautious not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
What sides pair well with French Onion Meatballs?
These meatballs go great with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. Their rich flavor complements many sides beautifully.
How do I make French Onion Meatballs gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the onion sauce in advance and store it separately until ready to combine with the meatballs.
Final Thoughts
French onion meatballs are not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve them over pasta or enjoy them with crusty bread, they promise warmth and satisfaction. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or cheeses for added flair!
French Onion Meatballs
French Onion Meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic meatball, combining savory beef, caramelized onions, and gooey cheeses for an unforgettable meal. Simmered in a rich onion sauce enhanced with sherry, these meatballs offer warmth and comfort, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or nestled in a warm sub roll, this dish is sure to impress. Easy to prepare with straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying main course that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds organic ground beef
- 1/2 large white onion, finely minced
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- 3/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 1/4 cups beef stock
- 1/4 cup sherry or white wine
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and soak breadcrumbs in milk for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine soaked breadcrumbs with ground beef, minced onion, garlic, herbs, seasonings, cheese, and egg. Mix gently until combined.
- Form mixture into meatballs (about 2 tablespoons each) and chill for at least 15 minutes.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown meatballs on all sides; transfer to a tray.
- In the same skillet, caramelize sliced onions until dark and sweet.
- Add garlic and herbs to onions; then deglaze with sherry before stirring in flour and beef stock to create the sauce.
- Nestle meatballs back into the sauce; top with cheeses and broil until melted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
