Indulge in the comforting flavors of our French onion meatballs recipe. This dish combines juicy meatballs with the classic taste of caramelized onions and gooey melted cheese, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these meatballs are sure to impress. Follow our easy steps to bring this hearty dish to your table!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 4 meatballs) contains about 450 calories, 25g protein, 28g fat, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined and form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and pour in beef broth.
- Sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top and transfer to the oven.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option. Additionally, use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to suit your taste.
Serving and Pairings
These meatballs pair wonderfully with crusty bread, over a bed of mashed potatoes, or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; this can lead to tough meatballs.
- Ensure the oil is hot before adding meatballs to get a good sear.
- Be careful not to burn the onions; cook them on medium heat.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure meatballs are cooked through.
- Let the meatballs rest for a few minutes after baking for better flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use stale bread for the best texture in your meatballs.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for variety.
- Make a larger batch and freeze for quick dinners.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. This can enhance the flavors.
What can I use instead of Gruyère cheese?
If you don’t have Gruyère, Swiss cheese or mozzarella are great alternatives that will melt nicely.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?
Absolutely! Place the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
What side dishes go well with French onion meatballs?
They pair well with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
French onion meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, bringing together rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Enjoy every bite of this savory delight!
French Onion Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 large onion thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined and form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove meatballs and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Return meatballs to the skillet and pour in beef broth.
- Sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top and transfer to the oven.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
