Description
These Saucy Skillet French Onion Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and simmered in a rich, savory French onion sauce. Served over tender egg noodles, this dish is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the French Onion Sauce:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For Serving:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
-
Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add meatballs in batches, browning on all sides for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from skillet and set aside.
-
Caramelize the Onions:
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet.
- Stir in sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden brown (15-20 minutes).
- Add garlic, sugar, and dried thyme, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
-
Prepare the French Onion Sauce:
- Pour in white wine (if using) to deglaze the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Simmer until reduced by half.
- Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
-
Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
- Return browned meatballs to the skillet, submerging them in the sauce.
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
-
Cook the Egg Noodles:
- While meatballs simmer, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Serve:
- Plate egg noodles, then top with meatballs and generous spoonfuls of French onion sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for variety.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in ½ cup heavy cream before serving.
- Make it gluten-free by using GF breadcrumbs and pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Calories: ~550 kcal
