Introduction
Welcome to the blissful world of homemade comfort food! Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe that brings together two beloved favorites: cheesy goodness and tender meatballs. These Cheesy French Onion Meatballs are bursting with flavor, featuring a rich mix of ground beef and pork, savory caramelized onions, and melted mozzarella that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup caramelized onions (about 2 large onions)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). The warm air will soon fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and ground pork. Add the caramelized onions, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Gently mix all the ingredients until well combined, taking care not to overmix, as this will help keep the meatballs tender.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, roughly 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour this savory broth mixture over the meatballs on the baking sheet, allowing the flavors to seep in as they cook.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and beautifully browned.
- Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously on top of the meatballs.
- Return the meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling, creating that irresistible gooey top.
- Serve your delightful creation warm, garnished with extra parsley for a fresh touch if desired.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to make the caramelized onions ahead of time! They add an incredible depth of flavor to the meatballs.
- If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes into the meat mixture.
- These meatballs can be served in a variety of ways—over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or even on their own as a tasty appetizer!
Cooking Techniques
Caramelizing onions is the key to achieving that deep, rich flavor that makes French onion dishes so special. Cook them low and slow, allowing their natural sugars to develop a golden brown color. This technique not only enhances the sweetness of the onions but also enriches your meatball mixture, ensuring every bite is full of satisfying flavor.
FAQ
- Can I freeze these meatballs? Absolutely! Once cooked, let them cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container. They can be reheated from frozen.
- What can I serve these meatballs with? They go wonderfully with pasta, on a bed of mashed potatoes, or even in a hearty sub! Add a side salad or some roasted veggies for a complete meal.
Conclusion
These Cheesy French Onion Meatballs are bound to become a favorite in your home, bringing everyone together around the dinner table with their comforting flavors and gooey cheese. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe promises to deliver cozy vibes and satisfied smiles. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!