Crock-Pot French Onion Meatballs Recipe
Introduction
Crock-Pot French Onion Meatballs are a comforting and easy dish perfect for busy days. Tender meatballs simmer in a rich onion soup sauce, topped with melted cheese for a delicious finish.
Ingredients
- 1 package frozen meatballs (about 24 meatballs)
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Swiss or mozzarella)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the frozen meatballs in the Crock-Pot.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, mix the onion soup mix with beef broth until combined, then pour over the meatballs.
- Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until meatballs are heated through and sauce is flavorful.
- Step 4: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the meatballs and cover to allow cheese to melt.
- Step 5: Serve warm, ideally with crusty bread or over egg noodles.
Tips & Variations
- For a deeper flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding to the Crock-Pot.
- Try using different cheeses like Gruyère or provolone for a unique twist.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra texture and taste.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, homemade meatballs work great. Brown them first, then add to the Crock-Pot with the sauce and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown meatballs if desired, then add the sauce and cook on the pressure cook setting for about 10 minutes with a quick release.
PrintCrock-Pot French Onion Meatballs Recipe
These Crock-Pot French Onion Meatballs offer a comforting and flavorful twist on classic meatballs, slow-cooked in a savory onion soup sauce and topped with melted cheese for a deliciously rich finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or party appetizer, this easy recipe combines hearty meatballs with the deep, caramelized flavors of French onion soup, all made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
French Onion Sauce
- 1 package (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
Topping
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
- Prepare the Onion Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the onion soup mix and beef broth until well combined, ensuring the soup mix dissolves completely.
- Slow Cook the Meatballs: Place the meatballs evenly in the crock-pot. Pour the onion soup mixture over the meatballs, making sure they are mostly covered. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
- Add Cheese Topping: About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded Swiss or mozzarella cheese evenly over the meatballs. Cover the crock-pot again and allow the cheese to melt, creating a bubbly, golden topping.
- Serve: Carefully scoop the meatballs with the onion sauce onto plates or a serving dish. Serve hot as a main dish accompanied by mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
- For extra flavor, caramelize onions separately and add them to the crock-pot.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to let some liquid evaporate.
- Cheese options can be varied—Gruyere or provolone also pair well with French onion flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Crock-Pot meatballs, French onion meatballs, slow cooker recipes, easy meatballs, comfort food, party appetizers, beef meatballs, cheesy meatballs
