French Onion Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large sweet onion, sliced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 8 ounces shredded Swiss & Gruyère cheese blend, divided
• ½ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon grated onion
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 cups beef stock
• Additional:
  • Additional chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
  • Crusty French or Italian bread for serving (optional)

Directions:

1. Caramelize Onions:
   1. In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter.
   2. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and caramelized.
2. Prepare Meatballs:
   1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Mix ground beef, ¼ cup cheese, panko, parsley, grated onion, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
   2. Form into 12 meatballs and bake on a lined sheet for 15-18 minutes.
3. Assemble:
   1. Simmer beef stock and caramelized onions, reducing slightly.
   2. Add baked meatballs to the skillet.
   3. Top with remaining cheese and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
4. Serve:
   1. Garnish with parsley and serve with crusty bread.