French Onion Meatballs

French Onion Meatballs combine the rich flavors of caramelized onions, juicy meatballs, and melty cheese to create a dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or making them the star of your dinner table, these meatballs are sure to please. Their comforting taste and delightful texture make them a standout choice for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor – The blend of caramelized onions and melted cheese elevates these meatballs to a gourmet level.
• Easy Preparation – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy them as a main course with sides or as bite-sized appetizers at your next party.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for gatherings, these meatballs are sure to impress both family and friends alike.
• Comfort Food Classic – Experience the warmth and satisfaction that comes with every hearty bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowl – Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking sheet – Perfect for evenly baking your meatballs to achieve that golden-brown exterior.
• Skillet – Ideal for sautéing onions to bring out their natural sweetness before adding them to the meatball mixture.

Ingredients

French Onion Meatballs combine caramelized onions, homemade meatballs, and ooey gooey cheese that are sure to satisfy your comfort food craving! They can be enjoyed as a side dish or as the main entree.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1 large egg, (beaten)
– ½ cup (100 g) parmesan cheese, (finely grated)
– 2 tablespoons parsley, (chopped)
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk
– ½ cup (54 g) fine dry breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic, (minced)
– ¼ cup yellow onion, (finely diced)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 large yellow onions, (thinly sliced into half-moon shapes)
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 2 cups (16 ounces) beef broth
– ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, (shredded)
– 1 cup (113 g) Gruyere cheese, (shredded)
– parsley, (chopped for garnish)

How to Make French Onion Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground chicken, beaten egg, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, kosher salt, black pepper, whole milk, fine dry breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and finely diced yellow onion.
2. Mix until fully combined but do not overmix.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Using your hands or a scoop, form the mixture into meatballs about one inch in diameter.
3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until fully cooked through and browned.

Step 4: Caramelize the Onions

1. While the meatballs are baking, heat unsalted butter and vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add thinly sliced yellow onions and cook until they become soft and golden brown—about 25 minutes.
3. Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for another minute.

Step 5: Create the French Onion Sauce

1. Gradually add beef broth while stirring continuously.
2. Season with additional kosher salt and black pepper; let simmer for about five minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Once baked, gently place the meatballs into the skillet with onion sauce.
2. Top with shredded mozzarella and Gruyere cheeses; cover until melted.

Step 7: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.
2. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Meatballs!

How to Serve French Onion Meatballs

French Onion Meatballs are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their rich flavors and cheesy goodness make them perfect for any occasion, whether as a hearty main course or a tasty appetizer.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve the meatballs on their own, topped with extra cheese and fresh parsley for a simple yet satisfying meal.

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

• Place the meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious broth, creating a comforting combination that is sure to please.

With Crusty Bread

• Offer crusty bread or baguette slices for dipping into the flavorful sauce. This adds a crunchy texture that complements the soft meatballs.

In a Sandwich

• Create a hearty sandwich by placing meatballs and melted cheese between slices of your favorite bread or in a sub roll for an easy lunch option.

With Pasta

• Toss the meatballs with your choice of pasta, allowing the savory sauce to coat each strand for an Italian-inspired twist on this classic dish.

As Appetizers

• Serve smaller meatballs on toothpicks at parties or gatherings. They are easy to eat and make for a delightful finger food option.

How to Perfect French Onion Meatballs

Achieving the perfect French Onion Meatballs is all about attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions and herbs enhance flavor, ensuring your meatballs stand out with vibrant tastes.
• Brown the Onions Well: Take your time caramelizing the onions; this step brings out their natural sweetness, which is key to flavor depth.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients for your meatballs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Chill Before Cooking: Chilling the formed meatballs for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while cooking.
• Choose Quality Cheese: Using good-quality mozzarella and Gruyere cheese makes a significant difference in taste and texture.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your sauce and adjust seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate the entire dish.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with French Onion Meatballs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, making it ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables provides color and nutrition, balancing the richness of the meatballs.
3. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing contrast nicely with the warm, cheesy meatballs.
4. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add freshness and brighten up your plate without overpowering flavors.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf garnished with herbs serves as an excellent base for enjoying the savory sauce from the meatballs.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the richness of French Onion Meatballs.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors in this dish perfectly.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables offers a healthy option that is also filling alongside these hearty meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Onion Meatballs, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to steer clear of them.

• Boldly skip the caramelization: Failing to properly caramelize the onions can lead to a lack of flavor. Take your time and cook them slowly until they are golden brown for a rich taste.
• Boldly ignore seasoning: Not seasoning the meat mixture adequately may result in bland meatballs. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before cooking.
• Boldly overmixing the meat: Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for tender results.
• Boldly neglecting the cheese: Forgetting to add cheese or using low-quality cheese can lessen the dish’s richness. Use good quality mozzarella and Gruyere for optimal flavor.
• Boldly rushing the cooking time: Cutting corners on cooking times can lead to undercooked meat. Follow the recommended times for perfect meatballs.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow meatballs to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing French Onion Meatballs

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags.
• Use within 3 months for best quality.

Reheating French Onion Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make French Onion Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to cook.

What can I serve with French Onion Meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I customize French Onion Meatballs?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or mix different cheeses based on your preference.

Are French Onion Meatballs gluten-free?

To make gluten-free French Onion Meatballs, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options.

Conclusion

French Onion Meatballs are a delightful blend of flavors that offer versatility as both an appetizer and a main course. With options for customization, you can easily adapt this recipe to fit your tastes. Give it a try for your next gathering or dinner!

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