Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

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by Lionel Ramon

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The aroma of Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs wafts through the kitchen like an invitation to a cozy hug. Picture tender meatballs swimming in a rich, savory broth, topped with gooey melted cheese and caramelized onions that dance playfully on your taste buds. savory slow cooker recipes The moment you take a bite, it’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited!

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These delightful meatballs are perfect for any occasion – game nights, family dinners, or even when you just want to impress yourself after a long day. I can still hear my friends raving about how they devoured every last morsel the last time I made these. It’s the kind of dish that creates unforgettable memories and leaves you craving more.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy days
  • The flavor is a heavenly blend of savory and sweet, with each bite bursting with deliciousness
  • Visually stunning with their golden cheese topping, they add a gourmet touch to any table
  • Perfect for parties or as an easy weeknight meal, they’re versatile enough to pair with pasta or serve on toothpicks as appetizers

I still chuckle when I think about the first time I served these at a potluck; my friends couldn’t believe something so simple could taste this good!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without too much grease. delicious beef enchiladas.

  • Onions: Sweet onions caramelize beautifully and add depth of flavor to the dish.

  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate the flavor profile significantly; don’t skimp on this! creamy garlic pasta.

  • Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth for better control over the saltiness in your dish.

  • French Onion Soup Mix: This convenient mix adds authentic French onion flavor without the fuss.

  • Shredded Cheese: Gruyère or mozzarella gives that delicious melty factor that brings everything together.

  • Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs while keeping them moist and flavorful.

  • Eggs: A couple of eggs will hold your meatball mixture together nicely.

  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley enhance all those fantastic flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, and seasonings. Get in there with your hands; this is where the magic begins!

Sauté Onions Until Golden: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté sliced onions until they become soft and golden brown. This step is crucial; you want that sweet caramelization.

Shape Your Meatballs: Form small meatballs from your mixture – about one inch in diameter works well. Place them on a baking sheet to make transferring easier later.

Add Everything to the Crock Pot: Layer your meatballs at the bottom of the crock pot. Pour the sautéed onions over them and then add beef broth along with French onion soup mix.

Cook Low & Slow: Set your crock pot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. As they cook, you’ll be greeted by an incredible aroma that fills your home.

Melt That Cheese!: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top of your meatballs so it can melt into gooey perfection.

These steps will guide you through creating an unforgettable dish that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe thirds). The combination of flavors is sure to warm your heart and excite your palate!

You Must Know

  • The secret to delicious Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs lies in caramelizing the onions
  • This enhances the flavor and gives a savory depth that’s hard to resist
  • The aroma of simmering meatballs will fill your kitchen, making everyone eagerly await dinner!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the onions until they’re golden and caramelized, then mix everything in the crock pot. This method ensures that all flavors meld beautifully during cooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or add some fresh herbs like thyme for an aromatic twist. Customize it to your taste!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve flavor and texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect meatballs, use a blend of ground meats for better flavor and texture
  • Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, as this can make them tough
  • Let them rest before serving to enhance their juiciness and flavor

Cooking these meatballs always reminds me of a family gathering where my cousin declared I should open a restaurant just for these!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs ahead of time?

classic pot roast.

Absolutely! Prepare them a day in advance and refrigerate overnight before cooking.

What can I serve with Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

For more inspiration, check out this Marinated Cucumbers, Onions, and Tomatoes recipe.

They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or even on crusty bread as sliders.

How do I store leftover Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for best quality.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs combine the rich flavors of savory beef, sweet caramelized onions, and gooey melted cheese, creating a dish that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. These tender meatballs simmer slowly in a delicious broth, making them an unforgettable treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe is ideal for busy cooks who want to impress their guests without spending hours in the kitchen.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 large sweet onions, sliced
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 packet (1 oz) French onion soup mix
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté sliced onions until golden brown and caramelized.
  3. Form the meat mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a baking sheet.
  4. Layer the meatballs in the crock pot, pour the sautéed onions over them, then add beef broth and French onion soup mix.
  5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle cheese over the meatballs to melt.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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