Introduction

Boulettes à la soupe à l’oignon is a heartwarming dish that combines savory meatballs with the rich flavors of French onion soup. This recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal or a cozy dinner party. The aromatic blend of beef, onions, and herbs delivers a delightful taste that is both satisfying and delicious.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Ground beef – 500 grams
Breadcrumbs – 100 grams
Onion, finely chopped – 1 medium
Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
Egg – 1 large
Parsley, chopped – 2 tablespoons
Thyme, dried – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Pepper – to taste
Beef broth – 1 liter
Onion soup mix – 1 packet
Grated cheese (for topping) – 100 grams

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the Meatballs

Take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on a plate and set aside.

Brown the Meatballs

In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add sliced onions and cook until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.

Add the Broth

Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze and incorporate any flavorful bits.

Combine the Ingredients

Gently add the browned meatballs back into the pot. Allow them to simmer in the broth for about 15-20 minutes, so they absorb the flavors.

Serve the Soup

Once the meatballs are cooked through, ladle the soup into bowls. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or croutons before serving.

Notes

Meat Selection

Using a mix of beef and pork can enhance the flavor of the meatballs.

Broth Variety

Feel free to use homemade or store-bought broth, but ensure it is of good quality for the best taste.

Spice Level

Adjust the amount of garlic and onion according to your flavor preference.

Storage Instructions

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Meat Mixture

To create flavorful meatballs, combine minced beef with seasonings and other ingredients. Ensure that the mixture is well-combined but not overworked to maintain tenderness.

Shaping the Meatballs

Use your hands to shape the meat mixture into uniform balls. This helps in cooking them evenly and ensures they hold together during the cooking process.

Searing the Meatballs

Sear the meatballs in a hot pan until they develop a nice brown crust. This step adds depth of flavor and helps to lock in the juices.

Simmering in Soup

Once seared, add the meatballs to the onion soup base and let them simmer. This allows the flavors to meld and results in a comforting and hearty dish.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative, though the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

How can I make meatballs gluten-free?

Substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats, and make sure other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I freeze leftover meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to three months. Just make sure to cool them completely before freezing.

What type of onion should I use for the soup?

Yellow onions are commonly used for their sweetness and depth of flavor, but you can also use leeks or shallots for a different taste.

How can I make the soup base richer?

Consider adding beef broth instead of water or enhancing the flavor with herbs and spices such as thyme, bay leaves, or garlic.

Conclusion

The Boulettes à la Soupe à l’Oignon is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of beef meatballs with the savory essence of onion soup. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening and can be enjoyed with a variety of sides. Its delicious taste and hearty texture make it a favorite for family dinners or meal prep.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic French Onion Soup

A perfect pairing with meatballs, this rich soup features caramelized onions and melted cheese on top, providing a wonderful depth of flavor.

Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes are enhanced with garlic and Parmesan cheese, making them a delightful side dish for the meatballs.

Steamed Vegetables

Simple and healthy, a medley of steamed vegetables can add a fresh crunch to your meal and balance the richness of the meatballs and soup.

Crusty Baguette

Serve alongside a warm and crusty baguette for dipping into the onion soup or enjoying with the meatballs, enhancing the overall experience.

Mixed Green Salad

A light and refreshing mixed green salad dressed with a vinaigrette can complement the hearty meatballs, providing a well-rounded meal option.