French Onion Meatballs: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Recipe

French Onion Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions and savory meat. As a lover of both French cuisine and comfort food, I find that these meatballs not only satisfy my cravings but also evoke a sense of nostalgia. The origins of French onion soup date back to ancient times, but it was in the 18th century that it truly gained popularity in France. This recipe pays homage to that tradition while adding a modern flair that makes it perfect for any occasion.

People adore French Onion Meatballs for their incredible taste and texture. The combination of tender, juicy meatballs infused with the sweet, savory notes of French onion creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, French Onion Meatballs are sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup French onion soup (canned or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. I love using a mix of meats for added flavor and texture.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano to the meat mixture.
3. Using your hands, mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
4. Once the mixture is well combined, I like to take a small amount and cook it in a skillet to taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, shape the meat mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
6. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through. I usually check them with a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).

Caramelizing the Onions

1. While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to caramelize the onions. In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet. Stir them to coat in the butter and oil, then reduce the heat to low. This slow cooking process is key to developing that sweet, rich flavor.
3. Cook the onions for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to turn a deep golden brown. If they start to stick to the pan, you can add a splash of water to deglaze.
4. Once the onions are caramelized, add the beef broth and French onion soup to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will create a delicious sauce for the meatballs.

Combining the Meatballs and Sauce

1. Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully transfer them from the baking sheet to the skillet with the caramelized onion sauce. I like to use a slotted spoon for this to avoid excess grease.
2. Gently stir the meatballs into the sauce, making sure they are well coated. Let them simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes on low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. After simmering, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the meatballs. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving the French Onion Meatballs

1. Once the cheese is melted, it’s time to serve! I like to use a large spoon to scoop out the meatballs and sauce onto a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and added flavor. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top if you like.
3. These meatballs are perfect served over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or even on a crusty piece of bread for a delightful French onion meatball sub.
4. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that luscious onion sauce over the top for extra flavor. Trust me, your guests will be asking for seconds!

Storing and Reheating

1. If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the meatballs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. To reheat, simply place the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered dish for a quick meal.
3. These meatballs also freeze well! Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Enjoy your delicious French Onion Meatballs! They are sure to be a hit at your next dinner gathering or family meal.

Conclusion:

In summary, these French Onion Meatballs are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game. The rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions combined with tender, juicy meatballs create a dish that is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you serve them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, nestled in a warm sub roll with melted cheese, or simply on their own with a side of crusty bread, these meatballs are sure to impress your family and friends. Feel free to get creative with variations! You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist, or incorporate some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any modifications you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for these French Onion Meatballs together! Happy cooking! Print

June 15, 2025 by Melissa