Description
Savory beef meatballs simmered in a rich French onion-style sauce, topped with melted Gruyère cheese and served with crispy baguette slices. This cozy, comfort food dish blends classic French flavors with hearty meatball goodness—perfect for dinner or entertaining.
Ingredients
For the Onions:
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3 large onions, thinly sliced (about 6 cups)
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2 large cloves garlic, minced
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1 large bay leaf
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1 tablespoon unsalted butter
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon fine salt
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Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Meatballs:
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1½ pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
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½ cup panko breadcrumbs
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1 packet (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
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1 large egg
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½ teaspoon herbes de Provence or dried thyme
For the Sauce and Finishing:
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1 (10.5 oz) can condensed French onion soup
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1 cup unsalted beef broth or water
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½ teaspoon herbes de Provence or dried thyme
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1½ to 2 cups (6–8 oz) shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
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Fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
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1 baguette, sliced and toasted
Instructions
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Caramelize the onions: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions, garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden and caramelized (about 40–45 minutes). Stir in balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce. Remove bay leaf.
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Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion soup mix, egg, and herbs. Mix gently and form into 1½-inch meatballs.
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Brown the meatballs: Heat a little oil in the same skillet. Add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides. Set aside.
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Make the sauce: Add French onion soup, beef broth, and herbs to the skillet. Stir and bring to a simmer. Return meatballs and caramelized onions to the pan. Cover and cook for 20 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
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Broil with cheese: Sprinkle cheese over the top and place under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Garnish with thyme or parsley and serve with toasted baguette slices.
Notes
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
The dish can be prepared in advance and reheated in the oven.
Toasted baguette slices are ideal for soaking up the rich onion gravy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Broil
- Cuisine: French-American