why make this recipe
This dish is easy and warm. You can set the crockpot and forget it. The meatballs cook slow and soak up onion flavor. Serve for a weeknight meal or a small gathering. For another simple casserole with onion flavor try this recipe: French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole.
introduction
Crockpot French Onion Meatballs mix simple ingredients into a rich, cheesy meal. The slow cooker makes the meatballs tender. The French onion mix gives a deep savory taste. You do little work and get big flavor.
how to make Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
Make the meatball mix, form balls, and place them in the crockpot. Add beef broth so they stay moist while slow cooking. Near the end, add cheese so it melts on top. You can also try a quick sandwich idea with similar flavors: French Onion Patty Melt.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet French onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, onion, egg, Parmesan cheese, and French onion soup mix until combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place in the crockpot.
- Pour beef broth over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and cover until melted.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
Serve them over rice, pasta, or with mashed potatoes. They work well on small rolls for sliders. Add a side salad or steamed vegetables. For another cozy slow-cooker main, see this chicken and dumplings recipe: Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings.
how to store Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
Cool the meatballs to room temperature. Put them in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
- Make meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches so they cook evenly.
- Do not overcrowd the crockpot; leave space for heat to move.
- Use lean or regular ground beef as you prefer. Add a little more broth if you like more sauce.
- If sauce seems thin, remove lid and cook on high for 15-30 minutes to reduce.
variation (if any)
- Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Top with Swiss cheese instead of mozzarella for a different taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I make meatballs ahead and freeze them?
A: Yes. Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce in a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat on low in the crockpot or in the oven.
Q: Can I skip the egg or breadcrumbs?
A: You can, but meatballs may fall apart. Use soaked bread or a little extra cheese to help bind.
Q: Can I use homemade French onion soup mix?
A: Yes. A homemade mix of onion powder, beef bouillon, and dried onion works fine.
Q: Do I need to brown the meatballs first?
A: No. You can place raw meatballs in the crockpot and cook them fully there.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in a saucepan on low, in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until hot, or in the microwave.
Conclusion
For more versions and tips, see this slow cooker take on the recipe: Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs – Slow Cooker Meals. You can also read another popular write-up here: Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs – The Country Cook. For step-by-step photos and notes, check this post: Crockpot French Onion Meatballs – In the Kitchen with Momma Mel.
Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
Ingredients
Meatball Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean or regular ground beef as desired.
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg Helps to bind the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet French onion soup mix Store-bought or homemade mix.
- 1 cup beef broth Keeps meatballs moist during cooking.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded Sprinkle on top before serving.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season meatball mixture.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, egg, Parmesan cheese, and French onion soup mix until combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them in the crockpot.
- Pour beef broth over the meatballs.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until meatballs are cooked through.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and cover until melted.
