These Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs are a cozy treat that combines juicy meatballs with sweet, caramelized onions and rich broth. Just set it and forget it!
I love the smell that fills my kitchen as they cook. It’s like a warm hug! Serve these tasty meatballs on bread or over pasta for an easy meal that everyone will enjoy. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I recommend using 80% lean for the juiciest meatballs, but you can easily substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Onions: Use yellow onions for caramelizing since they become naturally sweet. For a milder flavor, you can try sweet onions, like Vidalia.
Breadcrumbs: Plain breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. If gluten-free is your goal, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is classic for this dish, but Gruyère brings a richer flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, try Provolone or even mozzarella if you want something milder.
How Do I Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is key to deep flavor in your meatballs. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with sliced onions and a pan on medium heat, adding butter or oil.
- Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally. Patience is essential—this takes about 20-25 minutes!
- Keep the heat low enough that they don’t burn, allowing their natural sugars to develop and turn golden brown.
Once caramelized, these onions will add a rich sweetness to your meatballs that truly enhances the overall taste. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cooking Sauce:
- 3 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 cups sliced onions (for caramelizing)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
For the Topping:
- 1½ cups shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and roughly 6-7 hours to cook on low (or 3-4 hours on high) in the slow cooker. Total, you can enjoy this meal with minimal effort and lots of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to overmix! Once combined, shape the mixture into about 20 meatballs, each about 1½ inches in diameter.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
In a skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring them frequently. This should take about 20-25 minutes until the onions are deeply browned and caramelized. Once done, set them aside.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker:
Place the prepared meatballs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the beef broth over the meatballs, then stir in the soy sauce and balsamic vinegar. Top it off with the caramelized onions.
4. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. Cook until the meatballs are cooked through, and the flavors of the broth have melded beautifully.
5. Add Cheese:
About 15-20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese over the meatballs. Cover again and let that cheese melt, creating a deliciously gooey topping!
6. Serve:
Once cooked, spoon the meatballs and onions into serving bowls along with plenty of broth. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
These Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs are perfect when paired with toasted baguette slices or buttered egg noodles. Dig in and enjoy the hearty sweetness of the onion and melty cheese!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs! Let them cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with These Meatballs?
These meatballs are fantastic served over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even on a toasted baguette as a hearty sandwich. For a lighter option, consider pairing them with a side salad or steamed vegetables!