Description
This Saucy Skillet French Onion Meatballs with Egg Noodles recipe combines tender beef meatballs simmered in a rich, caramelized onion and beef broth sauce served over hearty egg noodles. The dish brings together comforting flavors of French onion soup in a convenient one-skillet meal perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
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 & Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 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
Pasta & Garnish
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set them aside.
- 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 for 5 to 7 minutes until nicely golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: Using the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Stir in the thinly sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and golden brown, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, sugar, and dried thyme. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Deglaze and Simmer Sauce: Pour in the white wine if using to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer until the wine reduces by half.
- Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce: Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet, submerging them in the onion sauce. Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Cook Egg Noodles: Meanwhile, 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: Plate the cooked egg noodles and top with the saucy French onion meatballs. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth if possible.
- If you prefer, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Dry white wine is optional, but it adds depth to the sauce; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
- You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate before cooking.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if your beef broth is salty.
- Use fresh parsley as garnish to brighten the dish and add a fresh herbal note.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
