Savory French Onion Meatballs Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with these delectable French Onion Meatballs. Picture this: tender, juicy meatballs enveloped in a luscious caramelized onion sauce and crowned with gooey melted cheese. This fusion of French onion soup flavors with hearty meatballs is sure to tantalize your taste buds and warm your soul.

Crafted with organic grass-fed beef, fresh thyme, and a blend of Gruyere and mozzarella cheese, these meatballs are a culinary masterpiece. The slow caramelization of onions, a splash of sherry, and a sprinkle of Herbes de Provence elevate the dish to a whole new level of savory goodness.

Whether served over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread for dipping, these French Onion Meatballs are a family favorite in the making. Take your time savoring each bite, and let the rich flavors of this dish transport you to a cozy French bistro right in your own home.

Quick Benefits

• Grass-fed ground beef for added flavor and juiciness
• Caramelized onions for rich, deep flavor
• Gruyere and mozzarella cheese combo for a perfect melt
• Herbes de Provence and sherry for that French bistro flair

Why You’ll Love This Savory French Onion Meatballs Recipe Recipe

• The combination of savory meatballs, rich caramelized onion sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates a truly special and comforting dish that is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
• Using organic grass-fed beef ensures the meatballs are flavorful and juicy, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
• The addition of fresh thyme and herbes de Provence adds a delicious herbaceous note that complements the flavors of the dish perfectly.
• Caramelizing the onions slowly adds a depth of flavor that is well worth the time and effort, resulting in a rich and flavorful sauce.
• A splash of sherry in the sauce enhances the flavors and adds a delightful complexity to the dish.
• Preparing the breadcrumbs in milk and chilling the meatballs before cooking ensures they stay tender and hold their shape, making for perfectly cooked meatballs.
• The sauce can be made ahead of time, allowing for easy meal prep and quick assembly when ready to serve.
• Serving the French onion meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread for dipping allows you to enjoy every bit of the delicious sauce.
• The option to use pre-made meatballs can save time without compromising on flavor, making this recipe versatile and convenient for busy days.

Ingredients for Savory French Onion Meatballs Recipe

• 1½ cups fresh breadcrumbs.
• 4 tablespoons olive oil.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
• 1½ tablespoons flour.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed.
• 2½ large white onions, sliced.
• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter.
• 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme.
• 1/2 large white onion, minced.
• Salt and pepper to taste.
• 1 egg, whisked.
• 3/4 cup Gruyere cheese, divided.
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme.
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed.
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons milk.
• 1½ pounds ground beef (85/15).
• 2¼ cups beef stock.
• 1/4 cup sherry or white wine.
• 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence.
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped.

Pro Tips for Savory French Onion Meatballs Recipe

Make sure to soak the breadcrumbs in milk before adding them to the meat mixture for extra tender meatballs. Chilling the meatballs before cooking will help them hold their shape and prevent them from falling apart during cooking. Take your time caramelizing the onions for the sauce as it will add depth and richness to the dish.

Prepare the sauce ahead of time to save time on the day of serving. Reheat it gently before adding the meatballs and cheese. Use a combination of Gruyere and mozzarella cheese for a balance of flavor and perfect meltability. Serve the French onion meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal.

How to Make Savory French Onion Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Combine breadcrumbs and milk, let soak for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Step 02

Mix together the beef and meatball ingredients.

Step 3: Step 03

Shape the meat mixture into 2-tablespoon-sized meatballs and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Step 04

Sear meatballs in oil and then remove from heat.

Step 5: Step 05

In the same pan, heat oil and butter, then cook onions for 20-25 minutes until caramelized.

Step 6: Step 06

Add garlic and herbs, cook for 30 seconds.

Step 7: Step 07

Pour in sherry and simmer for 30 seconds to reduce.

Step 8: Step 08

Mix in flour followed by beef stock, then simmer the sauce for 5 minutes.

Step 9: Step 09

Sprinkle thyme over the meatballs and cheeses.

Step 10: Step 10

Broil for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve prepared the French onion meatballs, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The meatballs can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving. If you have leftover sauce, it can also be stored separately and reheated to serve with the meatballs.

If you have extra French onion meatballs that you’d like to freeze for later, they can be frozen in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to cool the meatballs completely before freezing to maintain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the meatballs overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until they are heated through.

Remember to consider the storage of the meatballs and sauce separately if possible, as this can help maintain the best texture and flavor when reheating. Whether you’re enjoying these meatballs as leftovers or saving them for a future meal, proper storage and reheating techniques can help you continue to savor the delicious flavors of this comforting dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the French Onion Meatballs, there are some ingredient substitutions you can make based on availability and personal preferences. If you don’t have ground beef on hand or prefer a different protein, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter option. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time accordingly as different meats may cook at different rates.

If fresh thyme is not available, you can substitute it with dried thyme, using a smaller amount as dried herbs are more potent than fresh. Additionally, if Gruyere cheese is hard to find or you prefer a different cheese, you can use Swiss cheese or even a combination of Parmesan and provolone for a similar rich and gooey topping.

For the caramelized onion sauce, if you don’t have sherry on hand, you can substitute it with red or white wine, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity. Similarly, if you’re looking to make a vegetarian version, you can use vegetable stock instead of beef stock for a flavorful meatless option. These substitutions can help tailor the recipe to your taste preferences or dietary needs while still achieving a delicious and comforting dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try making French onion meatball sliders! Simply place a meatball on a slider bun, top with a spoonful of caramelized onion sauce, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden. These mini sandwiches are perfect for parties or a fun twist on a weeknight meal.

Another fun idea is to serve the French onion meatballs in a hollowed-out bread bowl. Cut the top off a round loaf of bread, hollow out the center, and fill it with the meatballs and sauce. Top with extra cheese and fresh herbs, then bake until everything is hot and melty. Scoop out portions of the bread along with the meatballs for a cozy and delicious meal that’s sure to impress your guests.

FAQs for Savory French Onion Meatballs Recipe

Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the original recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or any other ground meat of your choice to suit your preferences.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce a day ahead. Simply reheat it gently before adding the meatballs and cheese to ensure everything is hot and ready to serve.

What is the purpose of chilling the meatballs before cooking?

Chilling the meatballs helps them hold their shape better during searing and prevents them from falling apart. It also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in more flavorful meatballs.

Can I use a different type of cheese if I don’t have Gruyere or mozzarella?

Absolutely! While Gruyere and mozzarella are recommended for their flavor and melting properties, you can use other cheeses like Swiss, provolone, or even cheddar as substitutes to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed making and savoring these delicious French Onion Meatballs as much as I did. The flavors of caramelized onions, rich sauce, and gooey cheese truly make this dish a standout comfort food. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding your favorite sides or making small tweaks to suit your taste.

The next time you’re craving a cozy and satisfying meal, remember these French Onion Meatballs. Whether you serve them over creamy mashed potatoes or with a side of crusty bread, this dish is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Embrace the process of slow-cooking those onions and savor every bite of these flavorful meatballs. French Onion Meatballs – a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic dish that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!