Name: Cheesy French Onion Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 large onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp butter; 1 tsp sugar; 2 cups beef broth; 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional); 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, look no further than Cheesy French Onion Meatballs. This dish brings together the flavors of classic French onion soup and juicy meatballs, creating a comfort food experience that is simply irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, these meatballs are cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor.

Why make this recipe

Cheesy French Onion Meatballs are not just delicious, but they also combine familiar ingredients in an exciting way. The savory meatballs pair perfectly with the rich caramelized onions and gooey cheese, making every bite a delight. Plus, you can easily prepare this dish for a weeknight meal or a special gathering. With minimal time and effort, you and your loved ones can enjoy a dish that will quickly become a favorite.

How to prepare Cheesy French Onion Meatballs

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp sugar
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Steps:

Prepare the Meatballs:

In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.

Cook the Meatballs:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Make the French Onion Sauce:

In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt.
Add the sliced onions and sugar. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.

Combine and Simmer:

Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir. Cook for another minute.
Slowly pour in the beef broth and white wine (if using). Add the Worcestershire sauce and bring to a simmer.

Add the Cheese:

Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes.
Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the meatballs, cover the skillet, and let it melt for a few minutes.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or over rice.

How to serve Cheesy French Onion Meatballs

Serve these meatballs in bowls with plenty of sauce and topped with melted cheese. A side of crusty bread is great for soaking up the delicious sauce, and a fresh salad can add a nice crunch. These meatballs are perfect for sharing around the table.

How to store Cheesy French Onion Meatballs

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just be sure to cool them completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Tips to make Cheesy French Onion Meatballs perfectly

Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions; it adds depth to the flavor.
Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the meatballs to suit your taste.
If you want a thicker sauce, add a little more flour until you reach the desired consistency.

Variations

Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
You can substitute the Gruyère cheese with mozzarella for a milder taste.
Use different herbs like oregano or thyme for a unique twist.

FAQ

1. Can I make Cheesy French Onion Meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat everything before serving.

2. What can I serve with Cheesy French Onion Meatballs?
These meatballs go well with crusty bread, pasta, or even rice. A simple side salad also works great!

3. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?
Yes! If you want a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and consider replacing the meat with plant-based alternatives.

Enjoy making and savoring this delightful twist on a classic!