Juicy homemade beef meatballs baked in a rich, savory caramelized onion sauce with melted Gruyère cheese. A cozy, French-inspired dish perfect for any dinner table.
Meatballs:
1½ lb ground beef (80/20)
½ cup breadcrumbs
⅓ cup milk
1 egg
¼ cup grated onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Onion Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp flour
½ cup dry white wine or sherry (optional)
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp thyme
1 bay leaf
1½ cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, mix beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, grated onion, garlic, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
Form into meatballs and brown in a skillet with oil over medium heat. Set aside.
In same skillet, melt butter and add oil. Add onions and salt; cook on medium-low for 25–30 minutes until caramelized.
Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Deglaze with wine (if using), then add broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Simmer 5 minutes.
Return meatballs to skillet. Top with shredded cheese.
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and meatballs are cooked through.
Serve hot over mashed potatoes, noodles, or bread.
Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Add mushrooms or Dijon mustard for a variation.
Pair with green salad or roasted veggies for balance.