Baked French Onion Meatballs: 14 Comforting Delights

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Baked French Onion Meatballs are a delightful combination of caramelized onions, ground chicken, and gooey cheese, making them a perfect comfort food. From the rich flavors of slow-cooked onions to the satisfying bite of meatballs topped with melted cheese, this dish is a true delight for the senses. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer for a gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Baked French Onion Meatballs

This Baked French Onion Meatballs recipe brings together the classic flavors of French onion soup with the satisfaction of meatballs. Here are six reasons to love this dish:

Deliciously savory thanks to caramelized onions.
Easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight dinner.
Low-carb options available for health-conscious diners.
Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers.
Cheese-stuffed meatballs add a creamy texture.
Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or appetizer.

Incorporating French onion meatballs into your dinner rotation will make your evenings more enjoyable.

Ingredients for Baked French Onion Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 pound Ground chicken
3 cloves Garlic (minced)
1/2 cup Shredded mozzarella or gruyere cheese
1/2 cup Bread crumbs
1 large Egg (acts as a binder)
1/4 cup Fresh chopped parsley
1 teaspoon Fresh chopped thyme
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Ground black pepper
2 tablespoons Olive oil
2 large White, yellow, or red onions
2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar
1 cup Beef or chicken stock
2 tablespoons Corn flour
2 sprigs Fresh thyme (for garnishing)
1 spray Cooking oil (spray for golden crust)

How to Make Baked French Onion Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Sauté the Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and sprinkle with salt. Cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Pour in balsamic vinegar and toss in 2 thyme sprigs for an extra burst of flavor, cooking for an additional minute. Transfer the onions to a plate to cool slightly.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven: As your onions cool, preheat the oven to 410°F (210°C). This will ensure your meatballs bake perfectly.
Step 3: Chop the Onions: Take half of the cooled caramelized onions and chop them finely. This will help incorporate that sweet flavor throughout the meatballs.
Step 4: Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella (or gruyere cheese), bread crumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Gently fold in the chopped caramelized onions, making sure not to over mix.
Step 5: Shape the Meatballs: Moisten your hands with a little water and shape the mixture into meatballs, about 2 inches in diameter, to make approximately 14 meatballs.
Step 6: Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the same skillet used for onions. Generously spray them with cooking oil spray for a golden finish and bake for 12 minutes.
Step 7: Prepare the Sauce: Remove the skillet from the oven. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef or chicken stock with corn flour until smooth. Pour the mixture over the meatballs, adding the remaining caramelized onions, and top with the rest of the shredded cheese and thyme sprigs.
Step 8: Finish Baking: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through—check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with warm crusty bread for dipping in that luscious sauce.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked French Onion Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for optimal flavor.
Don’t rush the caramelization of the onions for best results.
For added richness, try using a mix of ground meats.
Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for uniform cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Baked French Onion Meatballs

These savory French onion meatballs can be served in various ways:

Over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
As an appetizer with toothpicks for easy eating.
With a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

How to Store and Reheat Baked French Onion Meatballs

To store leftovers, place the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked French Onion Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Baked French Onion Meatballs?

The secret lies in caramelizing the onions until they’re deeply golden brown, which enhances their sweetness and flavor. This step is crucial for achieving that authentic French onion taste.

Can I make Baked French Onion Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the meatballs in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking them, or freeze them for longer storage.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked French Onion Meatballs?

Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture to keep them tender. Also, ensure the onions are adequately caramelized to prevent a bitter taste.

Variations of Baked French Onion Meatballs You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations:

Substitute ground turkey or beef for a different protein option.
Add mushrooms to the meatball mixture for added flavor.
For a low-carb twist, use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.

Baked French Onion Meatballs: 14 Comforting Delights - Baked French Onion Meatballs - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Italian Meatball Soup or Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken.

Baked French Onion Meatballs: 14 Comforting Delights - Baked French Onion Meatballs - additional detail

For more information on the benefits of caramelized onions, visit Healthline.