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Cheesy French Onion Meatballs

A comforting dish that combines the flavors of classic French onion soup and juicy meatballs, perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Add sliced onions and sugar. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the caramelized onions and stir. Cook for another minute. Slowly pour in the beef broth and white wine (if using). Add Worcestershire sauce and bring to a simmer.
  5. Return meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meatballs, cover, and let it melt for a few minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or over rice.

Notes

Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions; it adds depth to flavor. Adjust seasonings to your taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatballs, French onion, comfort food, cheesy, family meal