Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs combine the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with hearty homemade meatballs for a comforting, flavor-packed dish. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. With minimal prep and hands-free cooking, you’ll have a dish that tastes gourmet with little effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Busy Days: Let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day.
- Rich and Comforting: Inspired by classic French onion soup, this dish features deep, savory flavors.
- Versatile: Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Easy to Customize: Use a beef and pork blend, swap in different cheeses, or add extra seasonings to make it your own.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
For the French Onion Sauce:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
- 1/2 tsp thyme (optional)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (for topping, optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet (for optional browning)
- Slow cooker
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet or plate.
2. Brown the Meatballs (Optional)
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor but is optional.
3. Prepare the Onions
In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes, until caramelized and golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Combine in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the caramelized onions to the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme (if using). Stir to combine. Place the meatballs into the slow cooker, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
5. Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
6. Thicken the Sauce
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
7. Add Cheese (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the meatballs in the slow cooker and cover until melted.
8. Serve
Serve the meatballs warm with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Make it Lighter: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce.
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar instead of Gruyère.
- Storage & Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave.
- Freezing Instructions: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.
FAQ
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and brown the meatballs in advance, then refrigerate them for up to 2 days before slow cooking.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
They pair well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, rice, or even a toasted baguette.
Can I use pre-made meatballs?
Absolutely! Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure not to overmix the meat, and if needed, chill the meatballs for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs are a cozy, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort but delivers big on taste. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or meal prep, they are sure to become a new favorite. If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious slow-cooker meals!
Happy Cooking!
