Description
These Saucy Skillet French Onion Meatballs served over tender egg noodles combine classic French onion flavors with hearty beef meatballs in a rich, savory sauce. Caramelized onions and a splash of white wine create a deep, comforting sauce that perfectly complements the meatballs. This one-pan stovetop dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Sauce and Onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 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
Accompaniment
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid compacting the meat.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total, ensuring a nice crust forms. Remove the browned meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Stir in the thinly sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and turn golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Aromatics and Sugar: Stir in minced garlic, sugar, and dried thyme, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in the dry white wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer until the wine is reduced by half, intensifying the flavor of the sauce.
- Add Broth and Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let the meatballs simmer gently for 10 minutes to blend the flavors and cook through.
- Cook Egg Noodles: While the meatballs simmer, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Serve: Arrange the cooked egg noodles on plates, then top with the meatballs and generous spoonfuls of the rich French onion sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, use a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio when deglazing the skillet.
- If you prefer, substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatball option.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free egg noodles.
- French onion meatballs can be made in advance and reheated gently in the sauce for a ready-to-eat meal.
- Be patient when caramelizing onions; low and slow cooking brings out the sweet, rich flavors essential to this dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
