Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are a deliciously hearty dish that combines tender meatballs with the rich flavors of French onion soup. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings and is incredibly easy to prepare in a slow cooker. With the savory taste of caramelized onions and melted cheese, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients List
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the French Onion Sauce:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
Timing
Preparing Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 6–8 hours of cooking time in the slow cooker. Total time is approximately 6–8 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until just combined.
- Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
- Cook Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot
- Add Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the bottom of the crock pot.
- Add Onion Mixture: Layer the caramelized onions over the meatballs.
- Pour Broth: In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the meatballs and onions.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and Cook: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese
- Melt Cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the meatballs and cover until melted.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs (per serving, makes about 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs for regular breadcrumbs.
- Reduce the amount of cheese or use a lower-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty bread or baguette for dipping.
- A side salad for a light complement.
- Mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Crock Pot: Ensure there is enough space for the meatballs to cook evenly.
- Not Browning the Onions: Take the time to caramelize the onions for the best flavor.
- Underseasoning: Taste the broth mixture before pouring it in and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
In just about 6–8 hours, you can create mouthwatering Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs that are perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavors and tender texture, they are sure to be a favorite at your dinner table!
FAQs
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Absolutely! You can use frozen meatballs; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, these meatballs freeze well. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs: A Savory Delight
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
- • 1 pound ground beef
- • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- • 1 large egg
- • 2 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1 teaspoon salt
- • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- For the French Onion Sauce:
- • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- • 1 tablespoon olive oil
- • 2 cups beef broth
- • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • Salt and pepper to taste
- • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sliced onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 15–20 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot
- Place the meatballs in the bottom of the crock pot.
- Layer the caramelized onions over the meatballs.
- In a bowl, mix together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the meatballs and onions.
Step 4: Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Step 5: Add Cheese
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the meatballs and cover until melted.
