What types of meatballs work best for Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Plain frozen meatballs made from beef, chicken, or pork work best, as they let the French onion sauce shine. Homemade meatballs are great too, especially if browned or partially baked first to maintain texture during slow cooking.

How long should I cook French Onion Meatballs in a crock pot and on what settings?

Cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 29 to 39 hours. These times ensure the meatballs are fully cooked and tender while allowing the sauce to develop deep flavor.

Can I make Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs on the stove instead of using a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meatballs in a skillet first, then add sliced onions and French onion soup mix. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until fully cooked and the sauce thickens. This method is faster and good for smaller batches.

How can I thicken the sauce if it is runny after slow cooking French Onion Meatballs?

Whisk cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the crock pot. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

What are good side dishes to serve with Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Serve with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs Recipe for Easy Dinners

Name: Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs Recipe for Easy Crockpot Dinners
Prep time: PT-487216H11S
Cook time: PT-487217H50M11S
Total time: PT-487217H50M11S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium yellow onions, sliced; 26 ounces frozen meatballs (beef, chicken, or pork; plain preferred); 2 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 ounce brown gravy mix (or canned gravy substitute); 2 teaspoons minced garlic (optional); 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning, oregano, or basil); 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (red or apple cider vinegar can be used); 1/4 cup water; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 1/2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated (Provolone, Fontina, Swiss, or mozzarella can substitute); 1 can (10.5 ounces) French onion soup plus 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix instead of broth and gravy mix

Description

🧆 Enjoy the ease and rich flavor of Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs, a simple yet hearty meal perfect for busy days.
🧀 This recipe offers tender meatballs smothered in a savory French onion sauce topped with melted Gruyere cheese, ideal for comforting dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

2 medium yellow onions, sliced
26 ounces frozen meatballs (beef, chicken, or pork; plain preferred)
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 ounce brown gravy mix (or canned gravy substitute)
2 teaspoons minced garlic (optional)
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning, oregano, or basil)
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (red or apple cider vinegar can be used)
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 1/2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated (Provolone, Fontina, Swiss, or mozzarella can substitute)
Alternatively:
1 can (10.5 ounces) French onion soup plus 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix instead of broth and gravy mix

Instructions

1. Place sliced onions at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Add frozen meatballs on top without thawing.
2. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, brown gravy mix, garlic, black pepper, thyme, and white wine vinegar (or French onion soup and onion soup mix).
3. Pour the mixture over the meatballs and onions.
4. Cover and cook on high for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours.
5. Whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry; stir it into the crockpot and mix well to thicken the sauce.
6. Sprinkle grated Gruyere cheese over the meatballs, cover, and cook for 10 more minutes until cheese melts and sauce thickens.
7. Optional: Transfer meatballs to a baking dish, sprinkle cheese, and broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispy top.
8. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, noodles, rice, or with crusty bread.

Notes

⏲️ Use a programmable slow cooker with a warm setting to prevent drying out.
🍳 Brown homemade meatballs first for better texture.
🌿 Add extra garlic powder, fresh thyme, or Worcestershire sauce for enhanced flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 2 1/2 to 6 hours
Cook Time: 2 1/2 to 6 hours
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 400 mg
Fat: 40 g
Saturated Fat: 17 g
Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 33 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: French Onion Meatballs,Slow Cooker Dinner,Crockpot Meatballs,Easy Meatball Recipe