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French Onion Meatball Sub

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This French Onion Meatball Sub combines juicy meatballs, rich caramelized onion gravy, and melted cheese in a toasted roll. It’s a cozy, comforting sandwich inspired by the classic French onion soup — perfect for weeknights or game day indulgence.

Ingredients

  • For the meatballs:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • For the onion gravy:
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • 1½ cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the sandwich:
  • 4 hoagie rolls or baguette-style buns
  • 8 slices provolone or Gruyère cheese
  • Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking meatballs.
  2. In a large bowl, combine beef, egg, breadcrumbs, grated onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Form into golf ball-sized meatballs.
  3. Bake or pan-fry meatballs until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
  4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring often, until golden and caramelized.
  5. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and beef broth. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
  6. Return meatballs to skillet and simmer in onion gravy for 5–10 minutes.
  7. Toast sandwich rolls lightly, then fill with meatballs and spoon over onion gravy.
  8. Top with cheese slices and broil for 1–2 minutes until melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with herbs and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version.
  • Swiss, mozzarella, or white cheddar can substitute the cheese.
  • Add a splash of red wine to the gravy for deeper flavor.
  • Brush rolls with garlic butter before toasting for extra crispiness.
  • Store meatballs and gravy separately to avoid soggy sandwiches.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/french-onion-meatball-sub/