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French Onion Meatballs in cast iron skillet with deeply caramelized onion gravy topped with melted Gruyère and mozzarella cheese and fresh thyme

French Onion Meatballs

Tender beef meatballs simmered in a rich caramelized onion sauce and topped with melted Gruyere cheese. A savory and satisfying dinner with deep, classic flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Mix and shape the meatballs, then brown them in the skillet.
  2. Caramelize the onions slowly in butter until golden.
  3. Build the sauce with flour, broth, and thyme.
  4. Return the meatballs to the sauce and simmer until cooked through.
  5. Top with cheese, cover to melt, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Do not overwork the meat mixture.
  • Take time with the onions for the best sauce flavor.
  • Freeze without cheese for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of broth if sauce thickens too much.