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Cheesy French Onion Meatballs

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Cheesy French Onion Meatballs combine juicy beef meatballs with rich caramelized onion gravy and melty cheese. Inspired by French onion soup, this one-pan comfort dish is perfect served over mashed potatoes, bread, or noodles.

Ingredients

  • For the meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • For the onion sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the cheesy topping:
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: provolone slices for extra melt

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley until just combined. Form into 16–20 small meatballs.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter and add onions. Cook, stirring often, for 20–25 minutes until deeply golden and caramelized.
  3. Add garlic to the onions and cook for 1 minute. Stir in flour and cook for 1 more minute to form a light roux.
  4. Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add thyme and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. In a separate pan or in the oven, brown meatballs until mostly cooked through, then gently add to the onion gravy. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheese and/or provolone over the top, cover the skillet, and let cheese melt until bubbly.
  7. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, bread, noodles, or your favorite side.

Notes

  • Caramelizing onions slowly is key to deep flavor—don’t rush it.
  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add white wine to the sauce for an extra savory note.
  • Make it gluten-free with GF breadcrumbs and cornstarch instead of flour.
  • Bake everything with cheese topping for a casserole-style presentation.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/cheesy-french-onion-meatballs/