Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Ingredients: This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that create rich flavors, making it both delicious and appealing.
2. Ease of Preparation: With minimal prep time and a slow cooker, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
3. Nutrition: Packed with protein from the meat and nutrients from onions, it’s a balanced meal option.
4. Versatility: These meatballs can be enjoyed on their own or served with a variety of sides, making them a perfect choice for different occasions.
5. Presentation: The beautiful golden meatballs with caramelized onions make for an impressive yet comforting dish.

You’re sure to love how simple and satisfying this Crockpot French Onion Meatballs recipe is!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total time: 6-8 hours
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Cooking time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into meatballs.
2. Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot and add the meatballs on top of the onions.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth and onion soup mix, then pour it over the meatballs.
4. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

How to Serve

1. Presentation: Display the meatballs in a large bowl or on a platter, topped with the caramelized onions.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
3. Portions: These meatballs are great for family dinners or parties. Adjust servings based on your crowd size.
4. Beverage Pairing: Pair with a light red wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.

Enjoy every bite in your favorite way!

Additional Tips

• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the broth for extra depth of flavor.
• Customize by mixing in herbs like thyme or garlic into the meatball mixture.
• Serve over pasta or rice for a heartier meal option.

Recipe Variations

1. Barbecue Style: Replace the onion soup mix with barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
2. Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat.
3. Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze well; store them in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

• Crockpot or slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking tray (if needed for meatball formation)
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?: Yes, you can use frozen meatballs; just extend the cooking time to ensure they heat through.
2. Is this recipe healthy?: Yes, it’s a good source of protein, especially if you use lean meat, and it contains natural ingredients.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?: Definitely! Prepare the meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them before cooking.
4. How can I customize my meatballs?: You can add herbs, spices, or even cheese into the meatball mixture to change the flavor.
5. Can I cook this in the oven?: Yes, you can bake meatballs in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.

Conclusion

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making them perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings. With easy preparation and the satisfaction of a hearty meal, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delicious dish that warms both the heart and the soul!

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

A delightful mix of flavors and textures, these meatballs are easy to prepare and perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meatball Mixture

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper

Cooking Ingredients

• 1 large onion, sliced Placed at the bottom of the crockpot
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• fresh parsley for garnish Fresh parsley

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into meatballs.

Cooking

1. Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the crockpot and add the meatballs on top of the onions.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth and onion soup mix, then pour it over the meatballs.
3. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.

Serving

1. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

Notes

Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the broth for extra depth of flavor. Customize by mixing in herbs like thyme or garlic into the meatball mixture. Serve over pasta or rice for a heartier meal option.