Simple Crockpot French Onion Meatballs Recipe

There’s something so comforting about the aroma of French Onion soup simmering in the kitchen. I remember the first time I tried it, I was instantly hooked. The sweet onions, rich broth, and bubbly cheese, pure perfection!

Now, what if I told you that you could capture all of those incredible flavors in an easy, crowd-pleasing dish? My Crockpot French Onion Meatballs are just that! Set it and forget it, this recipe requires minimal effort and cooks in just 3-4 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot French Onion Meatballs Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

• Effortless: Dump everything in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavor-packed: Captures the iconic taste of French Onion soup in every bite.
• Versatile: Perfect as a hearty appetizer or a satisfying main course.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple, readily available ingredients.

The Secret to Authentic French Onion Flavor

The magic of French Onion soup lies in the symphony of flavors, the sweetness of caramelized onions, the deep richness of beef broth, and that unmistakable hint of thyme, all topped with a generous blanket of melted Gruyere cheese.

This recipe manages to bring all those flavors into these meatballs. I achieve that classic French Onion flavor by using condensed French onion soup as the base for the sauce, which perfectly infuses the meatballs and onions as they cook.

This makes a great dish for the main course, especially if you’re short on time! We have many other main dishes to choose from for any occasion.

Choosing the Best Meatballs for Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

For this recipe, I find that frozen beef meatballs work best. You can also experiment with Italian meatballs, but make sure they aren’t overly seasoned, as that can clash with the French Onion flavor. I would steer clear of anything with strong spices, like chili or chorizo, as they’ll overpower the delicate balance I’m going for.

Turkey meatballs are another great, lighter option. For more insight, a study on the factors affecting the quality of beef meatballs can provide additional information.

Ingredients for Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these tasty meatballs:

• 26 oz bag frozen beef meatballs: These are the star of the show! Using frozen meatballs keeps things super simple, and they soak up all that delicious French Onion flavor as they cook.
• 1 large yellow onion (peeled and thinly sliced): Yellow onions are my go-to for caramelizing because they have a natural sweetness that becomes even more pronounced when cooked low and slow.
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed French onion soup (we like Campbells brand): This is the key ingredient that gives these meatballs that authentic French Onion flavor! I like Campbell’s, but feel free to use your favorite brand.
• 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese (we prefer to shred our own (better melt-ability)): Gruyere is the classic cheese for French Onion soup, and for good reason, it’s nutty, slightly salty, and melts like a dream. I recommend shredding your own cheese because pre-shredded often contains cellulose that prevents it from melting as nicely.

How to Make Crockpot French Onion Meatballs: Step-by-Step

Here’s how to bring it all together:

• Step 1: Add frozen meatballs to the insert of your slow cooker.
• Step 2: To the slow cooker, add the sliced onion and both cans of french onion soup.
• Step 3: Stir to combine.
• Step 4: Cover and cook on LOW for 3 – 4 hours, or on HIGH for 1 – 2 hours. While meatballs are cooking, I like to stir them every so often to make sure the sauce isn’t burning.
• Step 5: The last 15-30 minutes before serving, sprinkle with the shredded cheese. Return the lid back to the slow cooker and continue to cook, covered, until cheese is melted.
• Step 6: Serve hot, over mashed potatoes, toasted slices of french bread, or rice.

Serving Suggestions for Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

These meatballs are delicious served over creamy mashed potatoes, crispy toasted slices of french bread, or fluffy rice. For a complete meal, add a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad. If you’re serving them as an appetizer, try skewering them with crusty bread cubes or serving them in mini baguette bowls.

If you’re looking for a nice dessert to serve afterwards, you might enjoy these Cinnamon Sugar Blondies: A Delicious Recipe.

Variations on This French Onion Meatballs Recipe

Want to mix things up? Here are some tasty variations:

Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

To prevent the meatballs from drying out, add a splash of beef broth to the slow cooker. If the sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For an even deeper flavor, caramelize the onions in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months, just be sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Can I Double or Triple This Recipe?

Yes, this recipe is easily scalable! When doubling or tripling, you may need to add a little extra cooking time to ensure the meatballs are heated through.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can easily make these meatballs on the stovetop. Simply combine all ingredients in a large pot and simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the onions are tender. To make this in an Instant Pot, combine all ingredients and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.

History of French Onion Soup

French Onion soup has a surprisingly rich history. It’s said to date back to Roman times, when it was a simple peasant dish made with onions and broth. The modern version of French Onion soup, with its caramelized onions and Gruyere cheese topping, is believed to have originated in Paris in the 18th century.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

My Crockpot French Onion Meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work. What’s not to love? I can’t wait to hear what you think! Leave a comment below and let me know if you try this recipe, I’d love to see your results!

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Alexa

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs Recipe

There’s something so comforting about the aroma of French Onion soup simmering in the kitchen. Now, what if I told you that you could capture all of those incredible flavors in an easy, crowd-pleasing dish? My Crockpot French Onion Meatballs are just that!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 636

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Ingredients

• 26 oz bag frozen beef meatballs These are the star of the show! Using frozen meatballs keeps things super simple, and they soak up all that delicious French Onion flavor as they cook.
• 1 large yellow onion (peeled and thinly sliced): Yellow onions are my go-to for caramelizing because they have a natural sweetness that becomes even more pronounced when cooked low and slow.
• 2 cans condensed French onion soup (10.5 oz each) (we like Campbells brand): This is the key ingredient that gives these meatballs that authentic French Onion flavor! I like Campbell’s, but feel free to use your favorite brand.
• 1 cup shredded gruyere cheese (we prefer to shred our own (better melt-ability)): Gruyere is the classic cheese for French Onion soup, and for good reason, it’s nutty, slightly salty, and melts like a dream. I recommend shredding your own cheese because pre-shredded often contains cellulose that prevents it from melting as nicely.

Equipment

• slow cooker
• insert of your slow cooker

Method

 

1. Add frozen meatballs to the insert of your slow cooker.
2. To the slow cooker, add the sliced onion and both cans of french onion soup.
3. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 3 – 4 hours, or on HIGH for 1 – 2 hours. While meatballs are cooking, I like to stir them every so often to make sure the sauce isn’t burning.
5. The last 15-30 minutes before serving, sprinkle with the shredded cheese. Return the lid back to the slow cooker and continue to cook, covered, until cheese is melted.
6. Serve hot, over mashed potatoes, toasted slices of french bread, or rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 636kcal

Notes

To prevent the meatballs from drying out, add a splash of beef broth to the slow cooker. If the sauce is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For an even deeper flavor, caramelize the onions in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.

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