Go Back

French Onion Meatballs

These French Onion Meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional meatballs, infused with the rich and savory flavors of French onion soup. Tender, juicy meatballs are topped with melted cheese and served in a luscious onion gravy.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine French-American
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large mixing bowl
  • 1 baking tray
  • 1 skillet
  • 1 wooden spatula
  • 1 measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 cooking thermometer optional
  • 1 aluminum foil optional

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (for topping)
  • to garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
  • Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)).
  • While the meatballs are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 15 minutes.
  • Once the onions are caramelized, add the beef broth and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Once the meatballs are done baking, add them to the skillet with the onion gravy. Stir gently to coat the meatballs in the sauce, then sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese on top of the meatballs.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork.
If you prefer, you can serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes or pasta.
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.