French Onion Meatballs combine the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup with tender, juicy meatballs. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and is sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines two comforting dishes: French onion soup and meatballs.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Simple to make with readily available ingredients.
A versatile dish that pairs well with various sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Freezes beautifully for meal prep or future meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic
Onion
Beef broth
White wine (optional)
Worcestershire sauce
Butter
Flour
Mozzarella cheese
Thyme

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, and minced garlic. Mix until just combined and form into meatballs.
Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and brown the meatballs on all sides. Set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté thinly sliced onions until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth and wine, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce and thyme.
Place the browned meatballs into the skillet with the onion gravy. Spoon some sauce over the meatballs and top with mozzarella cheese.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve warm with your choice of side dishes.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Cheese Alternatives: Swap mozzarella for gruyere or provolone.
Vegetarian: Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce separately and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Combine and bake when ready to serve.

2. Can I use ground pork instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground pork or a mixture of pork and beef works wonderfully.

3. Do I have to caramelize the onions?

Caramelizing the onions adds depth of flavor, but you can cook them until soft if short on time.

4. What’s the best way to serve French Onion Meatballs?

Serve them over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

5. Can I omit the wine?

Yes, you can replace it with additional beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.

6. How can I thicken the sauce without flour?

Cornstarch or arrowroot powder are great gluten-free alternatives.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Certainly! Just ensure you use a large enough skillet or bake in batches.

8. What type of cheese melts best for this dish?

Mozzarella, gruyere, or provolone melt beautifully and complement the flavors.

9. How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture isn’t too wet by balancing breadcrumbs and egg. Handle the meatballs gently.

10. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, mushrooms or spinach can be added to the sauce for extra nutrition.

Conclusion

French Onion Meatballs are a delightful twist on two classic dishes, offering a rich and satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it with your favorite sides and make it a staple in your meal rotation!