Air Fryer French Onion Beef Meatballs

Introduction

These French Onion Beef Meatballs bring all the rich, savory flavors of classic French onion soup into juicy, tender meatballs! Instead of slow-cooking them in a crock pot, we’re making them in the air fryer—faster, crispier, and just as delicious. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or appetizer!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4-5 (Makes ~18 meatballs)

 Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork)

½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp onion powder

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

For the French Onion Sauce:

1 tbsp butter

1 large onion, thinly sliced

½ cup beef broth

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

½ tsp dried thyme

½ tsp sugar (optional, to caramelize onions)

1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese

 Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until combined.

Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a plate.

 Air Fry the Meatballs

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease the air fryer basket and arrange meatballs in a single layer.

Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway, until browned and cooked through (165°F internal temp).

 Make the French Onion Sauce

In a pan over medium heat, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized.

Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and sugar. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.

 Assemble & Melt Cheese

Transfer the air-fried meatballs into an oven-safe dish.

Pour the French onion sauce over them and top with shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese.

Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

 Serve & Enjoy!

Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal!

 Tips & Tricks

Want softer meatballs? Add 2 tbsp milk to the mixture.

Prefer a thicker sauce? Add ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with water before simmering.

No Gruyere? Use provolone, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese.

 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 4 Meatballs)

Calories: ~380 kcal

Protein: 28g

Fats: 22g

Carbs: 15g

These Air Fryer French Onion Meatballs are crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and smothered in melty cheese and rich onion sauce—all in under 30 minutes!