Craving a dish that combines comfort and gourmet? Our French onion meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, merging juicy meatballs with sweet, caramelized onions and gooey cheese. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in, this recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious dish!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 320 calories, 22g protein, 18g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and form into meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove meatballs and set aside; add sliced onions to the same skillet.
- Sauté onions until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Add beef broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake for 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, gluten-free breadcrumbs can replace regular breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Serving and Pairings
These meatballs pair beautifully with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or serve them over mashed potatoes or pasta for a hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the meat mixture can lead to tough meatballs.
- Not browning the meatballs before baking can result in less flavor.
- Skipping the caramelization of onions diminishes the dish’s sweetness.
- Using too much salt can overpower the flavors.
- Not letting the meatballs rest after cooking can make them fall apart.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatballs.
- Let the mixture chill for easier handling.
- Experiment with spices to customize flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth for extra depth.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them before cooking or even freeze them for later use. Just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
What can I serve with French onion meatballs?
These meatballs go wonderfully with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or pasta. A fresh green salad also complements the dish nicely.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Are these meatballs suitable for meal prep?
Yes, they are excellent for meal prep! Just store them properly, and they can be a quick reheatable meal during the week.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage, just make sure they are properly sealed.
Conclusion
The French onion meatballs recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the best flavors of meatballs and the classic French onion soup. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
French Onion Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 large onion thinly sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and form into meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove meatballs and set aside; add sliced onions to the same skillet.
- Sauté onions until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
- Add beef broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake for 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
