French Onion Meatballs with Savory Onion Sauce
These French Onion Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and smothered in a rich caramelized onion sauce inspired by classic French onion soup a comforting, savory dinner that’s perfect for cozy nights.
- Author: ssam
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French-American
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp thyme
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- 2. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
- 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- 4. In the same skillet, add butter and onions. Cook slowly over medium-low heat for 15–20 minutes until golden and caramelized.
- 5. Add thyme and flour, stirring for 1 minute.
- 6. Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring to create a smooth sauce.
- 7. Return meatballs to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes until cooked through.
- 8. Sprinkle cheese over top, cover, and let melt before serving.
Notes
- Serve over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or toasted baguette slices.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of sherry or white wine to the onions before adding broth.
- Make ahead and refrigerate flavors deepen overnight.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-5 meatballs with sauce
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: French Onion Meatballs, caramelized onion sauce, cozy dinner, comfort food