What types of meatballs should I use for crock pot French onion meatballs?

You can use frozen beef, chicken, or pork meatballs for convenience and excellent texture. If you prefer homemade, sear or partially bake them before adding to prevent breaking apart during slow cooking.

How long should I cook the meatballs in the crock pot?

Cook frozen meatballs on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 5 to 6 hours. If using straight from the freezer, add about an extra hour to cooking time to ensure thorough heating.

Can I use French onion soup mix instead of premade soup?

Yes, you can mix French onion soup mix with water as directed and use it in the recipe. This option is flexible and allows adjustment to taste.

Is it possible to add cheese to the meatballs?

Certainly! Sprinkle Gruyere, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese over the cooked meatballs and let it melt by covering or broiling briefly. This adds a delicious final touch.

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs: Easy Slow Cooker Recipe

Name: French Onion Meatballs in the Slow Cooker: An Easy Crockpot Recipe for Flavorful Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485914H47M34S
Total time: PT-485914H47M34S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 26 ounces frozen meatballs (beef, chicken, or pork); 2 onions, sliced; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 packet brown gravy mix; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded (mozzarella or Swiss as alternatives)

Description

🧆 Indulge in these savory French Onion Meatballs, offering a burst of flavor with each bite thanks to a slow-cooked, rich sauce.
🍲 Perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is both easy to prepare and deeply satisfying.

Ingredients

Scale

26 ounces frozen meatballs (beef, chicken, or pork)
2 onions, sliced
4 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 packet brown gravy mix
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded (mozzarella or Swiss as alternatives)

Instructions

1. Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker.
2. Add the frozen meatballs over the onions.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, brown gravy mix, minced garlic, thyme, black pepper, and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours.
6. Near the end of cooking, whisk cornstarch with a little water to form a slurry, then stir into the sauce to thicken.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover until melted.
8. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, noodles, rice, or with roasted vegetables.

Notes

🧅 For deeper flavor, caramelize the onions before adding to the slow cooker.
🥄 Homemade meatballs can be used for a fresher taste; simply mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, an egg, and seasonings.
🧀 Top with extra cheese and broil for a few minutes before serving for a crispy finish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
None: 0 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours (High) or 5-6 hours (Low)
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Approximately 5 meatballs
Calories: 400
Sugar: 5 grams
Sodium: 800 mg
Fat: 25 grams
Saturated Fat: 12 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Fiber: 2 grams
Protein: 25 grams
Cholesterol: 85 mg