Description

These Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs bring together the tender juiciness of homemade meatballs and the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup. Simmered to perfection in a slow cooker, this savory dish is incredibly versatile. Serve them as a comforting main dish over mashed potatoes or pasta, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The best part? The slow cooker takes care of the hard work, filling your home with the irresistible aroma of onions, beef, and melted cheese.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean recommended)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the French Onion Sauce:
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Preparation Method

1. Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently and avoid overmixing.

2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, aiming for consistent sizes. Set aside.

3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add sliced onions. Cook until golden brown and caramelized, about 15–20 minutes.

4. Deglaze the skillet with a splash of beef broth and transfer the onions to the crock pot.

5. Place the meatballs on top of the onions in the crock pot. Pour remaining beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme over the meatballs. Stir gently to coat.

6. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours until meatballs are tender and fully cooked.

7. Sprinkle shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese on top. Cover and cook on low for an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Conclusion

Caramelize with Care: Don’t rush the onions. Their rich, sweet flavor comes from slow, even cooking.
Make Ahead: You can prepare and freeze the meatballs in advance. Simply thaw and add them to the crock pot when ready to cook.
Cheese Choices: If Gruyère isn’t available, Swiss or even mozzarella make excellent substitutes.

These Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs are the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re hosting guests, meal-prepping, or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Ready to explore more slow cooker recipes? Check out our collection of hearty and comforting dishes that make every meal special. Don’t forget to share your creations—we’d love to see how you enjoyed this flavorful favorite! 🍽️✨