FRENCH ONION MEATBALLS

FRENCH ONION MEATBALLS

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra tenderness)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

For the French Onion Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp sugar (to help with caramelization)
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, for added depth)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meatballs:
    • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing for tender meatballs.
    • Form into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
  2. Caramelize the Onions:
    • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with salt and sugar.
    • Sauté for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and caramelized. Lower the heat as needed to prevent burning.
    • Stir in the thyme and cook for an additional minute. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Cook the Meatballs:
    • In the same skillet, add a bit more butter or oil if needed. Add the meatballs and cook over medium heat until browned on all sides (they don’t need to be cooked through at this stage). Remove meatballs and set aside.

Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE

  1. Make the Sauce:
    • Return the caramelized onions to the skillet. Pour in the beef broth and white wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits.
    • Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 5 minutes.
  2. Combine and Bake:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese over the top.
    • Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and serve hot. These French Onion Meatballs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.

Tips:

  • Make-Ahead Option: You can caramelize the onions and prepare the meatballs in advance. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.
  • Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs, and pair with a low-carb vegetable side.

Enjoy these savory, cheese-topped meatballs that deliver all the richness of classic French onion soup in every bite!

Free Keto Meal Plan : KETO DIET PLAN FOR BEGINNERS STEP BY STEP GUIDE