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French Onion Meatballs

French Onion Meatballs: Comforting, Hearty Delight for Winter

Savor the irresistible French Onion Meatballs, a comforting winter meal that combines tender meatballs with gooey melted cheese and rich flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: French
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Adds richness and flavor; can use olive oil for dairy-free option.
  • 1 large sweet onion Caramelizes beautifully for sweetness; yellow onion can be used as substitute.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef The star protein; ground turkey or chicken works for lighter meatballs.
  • ¼ cup shredded Swiss & Gruyère cheese blend Creamy and flavorful; consider mozzarella or cheddar if preferred.
  • ¼ cup panko bread crumbs Lends texture; replace with regular or gluten-free breadcrumbs as an option.
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley Freshness and color; dried parsley is a good alternative.
  • ¼ cup grated onion Intensifies the onion flavor; onion powder can serve in a pinch.
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic Adds aromatic depth; fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work.
  • to taste salt Essential seasoning to enhance flavor.
  • to taste ground black pepper Essential seasoning to enhance flavor.
For Assembling
  • 1 cup beef stock Adds moisture and depth; vegetable stock can lighten it up.
  • additional chopped parsley for garnish Optional fresh touch when serving.
  • crusty French or Italian bread Perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add one large sweet onion, sliced thinly, and sauté for 30-40 minutes until caramelized.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, ¼ cup of cheese blend, ¼ cup of panko, 2 tablespoons of parsley, ¼ cup of grated onion, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and salt and pepper. Mix gently and roll into meatballs.
  3. Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Check for doneness by ensuring no pink remains in the center.
  4. In the skillet with caramelized onions, pour in about 1 cup of beef stock and stir. Add the baked meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they're submerged in the broth. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for another 15-20 minutes.
  5. Remove from oven and optionally garnish with extra chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Gently combine ingredients to keep meatballs tender. For binding, add breadcrumbs or an egg if needed. Cook onions low and slow for the best flavor. Use a thermometer for perfect doneness.

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