why make this recipe
This crockpot French onion meatballs recipe makes a warm and easy meal. It uses simple ingredients and cooks slowly for deep flavor. You can set the crockpot and forget it. The sweet onion taste pairs well with bread or rice. Learn a small tip about sauce here: sweet onion sauce.
introduction
This dish mixes meatballs with soft onions and beef broth. The slow cook brings out a rich, savory flavor. It is good for busy days and for feeding a family. You can use plain sides or crusty bread. The slow cook makes the onions sweet and the meatballs tender.
how to make Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
Follow the simple steps below. Make the meatballs first. Place onions in the crockpot and layer the meatballs over them. Pour the broth mixture on top. Cook low for a long time or high for less time. For a little more onion flavor, try this link: sweet onion sauce idea.
Ingredients :
1 pound ground beef, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1 egg, 1 onion, sliced, 2 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs. Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the crockpot. Layer the meatballs on top of the onions. In a separate bowl, mix together beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then pour over the meatballs. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
how to serve Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
Serve the meatballs with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Spoon some of the onions and broth over the meatballs. Add a side salad or steamed veggies for color. Toasted bread is good to soak up the sauce.
how to store Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
Let the dish cool to room temperature, then put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat on low in a saucepan or in the microwave until hot.
tips to make Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
- Use fresh onions and slice them thin so they cook well.
- Do not overmix the meat mixture; mix just enough to combine.
- Brown the meatballs lightly in a pan first if you want extra caramel color.
- For extra onion punch, add a spoon of sweet onion sauce before serving.
- Keep the crockpot covered to keep moisture in.
variation (if any)
- Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef for a different taste.
- Add mushrooms or sliced bell peppers for more texture.
- Stir in a little cream or cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead?
A: Yes. Make the meatballs and keep them in the fridge. Put them in the crockpot when you are ready to cook.
Q: Can I cook this in the oven instead?
A: Yes. Place onions and meatballs in a covered baking dish. Add broth and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Q: Do I need to brown the meatballs first?
A: No. Browning adds color and flavor but is not required. The crockpot will cook them well.
Q: Can I use frozen meatballs?
A: Yes. You can use frozen meatballs. Increase the cook time if needed and check they reach a safe temperature.
Conclusion
For another slow cooker version and more tips, see this detailed guide: Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs – Slow Cooker Meals.
Print
Crockpot French Onion Meatballs
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A warm and easy meal with rich flavors from slow-cooked meatballs and sweet onions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
- Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the crockpot.
- Layer the meatballs on top of the onions.
- In a separate bowl, mix together beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then pour over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on low for 360 minutes or on high for 240 minutes.
- Serve warm, spooning onions and broth over the meatballs.
Notes
Use fresh onions and slice them thin for optimal cooking. If desired, brown the meatballs lightly for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: crockpot, meatballs, French onion, comfort food, slow cooker