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French Onion Meatballs Recipe

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4.2 from 50 reviews

These French Onion Meatballs offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining tender, flavorful beef meatballs with a rich, savory onion sauce. Topped with toasted baguette slices and melted cheese, this comforting dish is perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 – 2 Tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Sauce

  • 1/2 yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons corn starch

Bread Topping

  • 8 slices French baguette
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil (for brushing bread)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, Gruyere, or Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Form Meatballs and Heat Skillet: Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Shape and Cook Meatballs: Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, form the meat mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place them carefully on the hot skillet.
  4. Fry Meatballs: Cook the meatballs for 7 to 10 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even browning and cooking through. Once done, remove meatballs and set them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  5. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-high and add the thinly sliced onions. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Prepare and Cook Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir continuously, scraping the browned bits on the pan’s bottom, and cook on high heat for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Add Meatballs to Sauce: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat evenly.
  8. Let Meatballs Rest: Allow the meatballs and sauce to rest, uncovered, for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly while warming the meatballs.
  9. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or foil.
  10. Toast Baguette Slices: Lightly brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil. Arrange them on the baking sheet and toast in the oven for 4 minutes until lightly browned.
  11. Add Cheese and Finish Toasting: Remove the toasted bread from the oven briefly, sprinkle evenly with the shredded cheese, then return to the oven for an additional 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
  12. Serve: Place two pieces of the toasted, cheesy baguette on each serving plate alongside the French Onion Meatballs with sauce.

Notes

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease during frying.
  • If preferred, substitute the fresh baguette with a gluten-free option for dietary needs.
  • The onion sauce can be thickened further by adding a bit more cornstarch mixed in cold broth if needed.
  • Gruyere cheese offers a richer flavor, but mozzarella and parmesan also work well for topping.
  • Leftover meatballs and sauce can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: French-American

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/french-onion-meatballs-recipe/