Description
Cheesy French Onion Meatball Subs combine savory baked beef meatballs with rich caramelized onion gravy and melted cheese, served in toasted sub rolls. This hearty sandwich melds classic French onion flavors with an American comfort food favorite, perfect for a satisfying dinner or game day treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the onion gravy:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the subs:
- 4 sub rolls
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Make the meatballs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Shape the mixture into 12 to 16 small meatballs and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Make the onion gravy: While the meatballs bake, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sugar, cooking while stirring occasionally for 15 to 20 minutes, until the onions are golden and caramelized. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavor. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir continuously for one minute to cook the flour. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine meatballs and gravy: Add the baked meatballs to the onion gravy in the skillet. Simmer together for 3 to 5 minutes to coat the meatballs with the gravy and heat through thoroughly.
- Assemble the subs: Slice the sub rolls horizontally and place them on a baking sheet. Fill each roll generously with the meatballs and plenty of the onion gravy. Top each sandwich with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese. Place the baking sheet under the broiler on high for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can prepare the meatballs and onion gravy in advance to make assembly quick and easy when ready to serve.
- Try substituting Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a more classic French onion soup flavor profile.
- To make meatballs more tender, avoid overmixing the meat mixture before baking.
- Use fresh sub rolls for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, French-Inspired
