Juicy beef meatballs simmered in a rich, caramelized onion sauce inspired by French onion soup. A cozy, flavor-packed dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
Meatballs:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
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1 egg
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1/4 cup grated onion
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
Onion Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
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2 tsp balsamic vinegar or 1/4 cup white wine
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2 cups beef broth (low sodium)
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1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
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1/2 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional)
Instructions
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In a skillet, melt butter and oil. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat for 25–30 minutes until caramelized. Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
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In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
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Sear meatballs in a skillet until browned on all sides.
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Return onions to the skillet. Add thyme, balsamic or wine, and broth. Simmer 5–7 minutes.
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Stir in cornstarch slurry if thickening.
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Add meatballs to sauce. Simmer 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
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Optional: Top with cheese and cover until melted. Serve warm.