Cheesy Meatballs with Creamy Onion Sauce

These cheesy meatballs are a delightful blend of juicy, spiced beef and gooey melted cheese, all paired with a rich, velvety onion sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or party favorite, this recipe combines bold flavors and creamy textures for a truly indulgent experience. Serve them alongside your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to impress!

📋 Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 700 g (1.5 lb) ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• Pinch of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried garlic
• 2 egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons paneer breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 5 eggs (for coating)
• Green onions, chopped (as needed)
• 4 cherry tomatoes (or 1 medium tomato), diced
• ½ paprika, diced (bell pepper, any color)
• 100 g (0.2 lb) grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Butter (for greasing and frying)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Onion Sauce:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• Butter (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon flour
• 150 ml (5 fl ounces) hot cream
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef , salt , sweet smoked paprika , coriander , black pepper , dried garlic , egg yolks , and paneer breadcrumbs . Mix thoroughly until well combined.
2. Add the finely chopped onion , green onions , diced tomatoes , and diced paprika to the mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
3. Shape the mixture into balls about the size of large walnuts. Grease your hands with butter if needed to prevent sticking.
4. Roll each meatball in beaten eggs , then coat lightly with grated cheese for extra flavor and crispiness.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat a mix of butter and vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat . Fry the meatballs on both sides until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Optional Baking Step: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) . Place the fried meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes , or until fully cooked and browned. This step ensures the meatballs are tender and juicy inside while remaining crispy on the outside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Onion Sauce

1. In the same skillet used to fry the meatballs, add more butter if necessary. Sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat until golden brown and caramelized, about 5–7 minutes .
2. Sprinkle the toasted onions with flour and stir constantly for 1 minute to lightly toast the flour.
3. Gradually pour in the hot cream , stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes . Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Drizzle the creamy onion sauce generously over the baked or fried meatballs. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
2. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of grated cheese for a finishing touch.
3. Enjoy your cheesy meatballs with creamy onion sauce alongside mashed potatoes, rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

• Meatball Texture: For softer meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Handle the mixture gently when shaping the balls.
• Cheese Options: Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, melty finish.
• Sauce Consistency: If the creamy onion sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk or cream.
• Storage: Store leftover meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheesy meatballs are packed with flavor thanks to the combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and gooey melted cheese. The creamy onion sauce adds a luxurious richness that ties everything together, making this dish feel indulgent yet comforting. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Dive into these juicy, cheesy meatballs and savor every bite!