Savory French Onion Meatballs Recipe

Name: Savory French Onion Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup sweet yellow onions, finely diced (about 2 medium onions); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned); 1 large egg; 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp fresh thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 tbsp soy sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: October 22, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These French onion meatballs are incredibly easy to make, so you can whip them up any night of the week.
Their savory flavor profile combines rich beef with sweet caramelized onions creating pure comfort food bliss.
Visually appealing with their golden brown hue, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
Plus, they are versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or main course!

I once made this recipe for my family’s monthly potluck dinner, and let me tell you—the plate was empty before I could even grab seconds! Everyone raved about how delicious they were.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy yet healthy meatballs that won’t shrink during cooking.
Onions: Use sweet yellow onions for their natural sweetness that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; be sure to chop it finely for maximum flavor infusion.
Bread Crumbs: Use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs to bind the meat mixture while keeping it moist.
Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent; one large egg will do wonders here!

For the Sauce:

Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth; it helps keep control over saltiness while adding rich flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is key for sautéing the onions until golden and luscious without overwhelming saltiness.
Thyme and Bay Leaf: Fresh thyme enhances the overall dish while bay leaf adds an aromatic note—don’t skip it!
Soy Sauce: A dash of soy sauce brings umami richness and deepens the flavor profile.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures our roasting process will yield perfectly cooked meatballs without drying them out.

Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped garlic, diced onions, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough balls!

Sauté Onions for Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add remaining diced onions. Cook until they turn translucent and begin caramelizing—about 10 minutes—stirring occasionally.

Add Flavor Enhancers: Once your onions are beautifully golden brown, stir in thyme and soy sauce into the pan with onions. Allow this mixture to simmer for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Form Meatballs and Bake: Shape your mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until browned.

Create Rich Broth Sauce: While the meatballs bake, pour beef broth into the skillet with sautéed onions. Add bay leaf and bring it to simmer; let those flavors meld beautifully together.

Add Meatballs to Sauce: Once baked, carefully add those glorious meatballs into your simmering broth sauce. Let them soak up that delectable liquid for about 5 minutes before serving.

Now you’re ready to serve up these scrumptious French onion meatballs! Pair them with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for an irresistible meal that will leave everyone asking for more. Enjoy every delectable bite!

You Must Know

Mastering the art of French onion meatballs means embracing the sweet aroma of caramelized onions.
These delightful bites blend savory flavors, ensuring your dinner guests will beg for the recipe.
Plus, they are easy to prepare, making them a perfect weeknight dinner solution.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by caramelizing your onions slowly for an optimal flavor. While they cook, mix the meatball ingredients and preheat your oven to 400°F. This multitasking approach maximizes efficiency and flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes to keep them juicy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve perfectly moist meatballs, don’t overmix your ingredients; it toughens them.
Sautéing onions until golden brown adds depth of flavor that makes a difference.
Using fresh bread crumbs instead of dried keeps your meatballs tender and flavorful.

The first time I made French onion meatballs, my friends were blown away! Their enthusiastic compliments made me feel like a culinary genius even though it was just a simple recipe.

FAQ

What can I serve with French onion meatballs?

Pair these delicious meatballs with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I freeze French onion meatballs?

Absolutely! Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for later enjoyment.

How do I know when my meatballs are done?

Cooked meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F; use a food thermometer to check.

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