Savory, cheesy, and topped with caramelized onions — these quick French onion meatballs are a delicious twist on a classic comfort dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, savory, and cheesy — a French onion soup-inspired meal in meatball form.

• Quick and easy for weeknight dinners.

• Perfectly portioned for 4 servings.

• Great served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or on their own.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 2 large onions, thinly sliced

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1/2 cup beef broth

• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings/Yield: 4

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2: Make Meatballs

In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper until combined. Shape into 1-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake Meatballs

Bake meatballs for 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Step 4: Caramelize Onions

Melt butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sugar; cook 15 minutes until golden and caramelized.

Step 5: Make Onion Sauce

Pour in beef broth and simmer 5 minutes to create a flavorful sauce.

Step 6: Combine and Broil

Place baked meatballs in a baking dish, top with caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese. Broil 3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• Swap Gruyère with Swiss or mozzarella if desired.

• Serve over rice, pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape and refrigerate the meatballs up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers to make the recipe gluten-free.

Can I caramelize the onions in advance?

Absolutely, caramelized onions can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Final Thoughts

These Quick French Onion Meatballs are cheesy, savory, and topped with sweet caramelized onions — a fast, comforting twist on a classic dish that’s sure to impress!