Crockpot French Onion Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy days. Slow-cooked in a savory French onion broth and topped with melted mozzarella, these meatballs make an easy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Step 2: Form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
3. Step 3: Place the meatballs in the crockpot in a single layer.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth with the French onion soup mix until well combined. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot.
5. Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs, cover again, and cook for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use a blend of ground beef and ground pork or veal.
• Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the meatball mixture for extra aroma.
• Serve over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Substitute mozzarella with Swiss or Gruyère cheese for a different cheesy twist.

Storage

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. These meatballs can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these meatballs without a crockpot?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs in an oven-safe dish and simmer the broth on the stove. Bake meatballs at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes and then combine with heated broth and soup mix on the stovetop.

Is it possible to use a different type of broth?

Beef broth is best for authentic flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter taste or chicken broth in a pinch. Just keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different.

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 145 reviews

This Crockpot French Onion Meatballs recipe combines tender, flavorful meatballs with the rich, savory taste of French onion soup. Slow-cooked to perfection, these meatballs are juicy and infused with onion and garlic flavors, topped with melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for any day of the week.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meatballs

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce and Topping

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, finely chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Form the meatballs: Using your hands or a spoon, shape the meat mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, ensuring they hold together firmly.
3. Place meatballs in the crockpot: Arrange the meatballs evenly in the bottom of the crockpot to allow for even cooking.
4. Prepare and add the French onion sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth with the French onion soup mix, stirring until well blended. Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the crockpot, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
5. Slow cook the meatballs: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or alternatively on high heat for 3 to 4 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
6. Add mozzarella cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the cooked meatballs. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes on low to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
7. Serve: Once the cheese has melted, carefully scoop the meatballs and sauce into serving dishes and enjoy your warm, comforting meal.

Notes

• You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and verify the soup mix is gluten-free.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
• Meatballs can be formed ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for convenience.
• Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Keywords: Crockpot meatballs, French onion soup, slow cooker recipe, easy dinner, comfort food, ground beef meatballs