Description
French Onion Meatballs with Savory Onion Sauce are a cozy, flavor-packed twist on a classic. Juicy beef meatballs are simmered in a rich, caramelized onion gravy inspired by French onion soup — perfect served over mashed potatoes, rice, or toasted baguette slices for a comforting, bistro-style dinner at home.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1/3 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
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2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried
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1 tbsp flour
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1 1/2 cups beef broth
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until just combined. Form into 12–14 meatballs.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear meatballs on all sides for 6–7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook on medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring often until deeply golden and caramelized.
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Stir in thyme and sprinkle flour over the onions. Cook for 1 minute.
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Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring, then add Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly (about 4–5 minutes).
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Return meatballs to the skillet and spoon sauce over them. Cover and simmer for 10 more minutes until meatballs are fully cooked.
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Optional: Sprinkle cheese over the meatballs, cover, and let melt before serving.
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Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
Make sure to cook the onions low and slow for the best caramelization — don’t rush this step. For extra indulgence, broil the meatballs with melted cheese on top before serving. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes