Crockpot French Onion Meatballs: Dreamy 1-Pot Meal

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs have become my absolute go-to for a seriously comforting and flavorful meal that makes my whole house smell amazing. I remember the first time I made these, the aroma of savory broth and sweet caramelized onions wafting from the slow cooker felt like a warm hug. It’s funny how food can do that! These slow cooker French onion meatballs are so incredibly easy to throw together, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish that the whole family will devour, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

This incredible crock pot French onion meatball recipe is a weeknight warrior! You’ll want to make these again and again for so many reasons:

• The flavor is out of this world – a perfect blend of savory meatballs and classic French onion soup goodness.
• Prep time is a breeze, usually under 15 minutes, thanks to the slow cooker doing all the heavy lifting.
• It’s a surprisingly healthy option, especially when you opt for leaner ground beef.
• Budget-friendly! This recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch for a satisfying meal.
• The whole family, from picky eaters to adults, adores these tender, cheesy delights.
• These french onion beef meatballs slow cooker versions are incredibly forgiving, making them perfect for beginners.
• The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen, eager to dive in.
• It’s a complete meal that feels like a special occasion without all the fuss.

Ingredients for Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to unlocking that amazing crockpot meatballs French onion soup flavor. I love how accessible everything is!

• 1 pound ground beef – I usually go for an 80/20 blend for juiciness, but you can use leaner if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – These help bind the meatballs and give them a tender texture. Panko works wonderfully for a lighter bite.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami depth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
• 1 egg – This acts as a binder, holding all the meatball ingredients together.
• 1 onion, finely chopped – You want this super small so it distributes evenly and cooks down nicely.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that essential savory kick.
• 1 teaspoon salt – To enhance all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is always best!
• 2 cups beef broth – This forms the base of our savory sauce.
• 1 packet French onion soup mix – This is the magic ingredient that brings that signature French onion taste to our meatballs.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For topping, creating that irresistible gooey, cheesy finish.

How to Make Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

Let’s get these delicious meatballs cooking! This recipe is so straightforward, even if you’re new to the kitchen. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a rich, savory dish.

1. Step 1: First things first, let’s preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab a medium-sized bowl.
2. Step 2: Into that bowl, add the 1 pound ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, the finely chopped 1 onion, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. It’s time to get your hands in there! Mix everything together gently with your hands until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix, or your meatballs might get tough.
3. Step 3: Now, form the mixture into about 1-inch meatballs. You should get around 20-24 meatballs, depending on your size preference.
4. Step 4: Arrange these lovely meatballs in a single layer in your crockpot. This is where the magic happens.
5. Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 cups beef broth and the entire packet of French onion soup mix. Stir until the soup mix is mostly dissolved. Pour this savory liquid evenly over the meatballs in the crockpot. You can already smell that amazing French onion aroma starting to build!
6. Step 6: Cover the crockpot and set it to cook. You have two options: cook on low for 6-8 hours, which is perfect if you’re heading out for the day, or on high for 3-4 hours if you need them a bit sooner. Both methods yield wonderfully tender slow cooker beef and onion meatballs.
7. Step 7: About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, uncover the crockpot and sprinkle the 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the meatballs and sauce. Replace the lid and let it cook for those final 15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. The sight of that gooey cheese melting into the rich sauce is pure bliss! This is how to make crockpot French onion meatballs that are truly show-stopping.

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs

Want to elevate your crockpot French onion meatballs game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these tips for consistently delicious results!

• Don’t skip the finely chopped onion in the meatball mix; it adds moisture and flavor that you can’t get from just the soup mix.
• For perfectly browned meatballs before they go into the slow cooker, you can quickly sear them in a hot skillet. This adds another layer of flavor and helps them hold their shape.
• Ensure your slow cooker is set to the correct temperature. Low and slow is usually best for tender meatballs, but high works in a pinch.
• Taste the broth before adding it to the crockpot and adjust seasoning if needed, though the soup mix is usually quite flavorful.

What’s the secret to perfect Crockpot French Onion Meatballs?

The real secret to these best crockpot French onion meatballs recipe is using a good quality French onion soup mix and letting them simmer low and slow. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them incredibly tender and savory. For more information on slow cooking techniques, check out these tips.

Can I make Crockpot French Onion Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and the sauce mixture separately the day before. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply combine them in the crockpot and cook as directed.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs?

A common pitfall is overmixing the meatball ingredients, which can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined! Also, ensure you’re using enough liquid; too little can make the sauce too thick and salty. For more details on ingredient sourcing, you can visit our homepage.

Best Ways to Serve Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

These meatballs are so versatile, you can serve them in so many delicious ways! They make for an incredible crockpot French onion meatball dinner that’s sure to impress.

• Over Pasta: My personal favorite! Serve these savory meatballs and their rich, cheesy sauce over a bed of your favorite pasta, like egg noodles or spaghetti. The sauce clings beautifully to the noodles.
• With Rice: For a simpler, yet still satisfying meal, serve the meatballs and sauce over fluffy white or brown rice. It’s a great way to soak up all that delicious flavor.
• As an Appetizer: These also make fantastic crockpot French onion appetizer meatballs! Serve them in a small slow cooker with toothpicks for easy grabbing at parties. They disappear fast!

No matter how you serve them, these meatballs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. If you’re interested in learning more about the author, check out this page.

Nutrition Facts for Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

These flavorful crockpot French onion meatballs are surprisingly balanced! Here’s a look at the estimated nutrition per serving (based on the recipe yielding 4 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size. For more information on dietary guidelines, consult resources like the NHS Healthy Eating Guidelines.

How to Store and Reheat Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

One of the best things about this homemade French onion meatballs slow cooker recipe is how well it stores and reheats. Once cooked, let the meatballs cool down slightly on the counter for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer them to airtight containers. They’ll keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to make a big batch and freeze some for later, that’s totally doable too! Wrap the cooled meatballs and sauce tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. They retain their delicious flavor wonderfully.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of great options. For refrigerated leftovers, you can gently reheat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. For frozen meatballs, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first. Then, reheat using either the stovetop or microwave method. You can even pop them back into the crockpot on low for about an hour to warm them through for a cozy meal. For questions about data privacy related to online services, please see our Privacy Policy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot French Onion Meatballs

What are French onion meatballs crockpot?

Crockpot French onion meatballs are tender, savory meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce that mimics the classic taste of French onion soup. They’re typically made with ground beef, seasonings, and a simple broth-based sauce infused with French onion soup mix, then topped with melted mozzarella. They’re a fantastic, easy main dish or appetizer.

Why make French onion meatballs in crockpot?

Making these meatballs in the crockpot is a game-changer because it requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. The slow cooking process ensures the meatballs are incredibly tender and infused with the savory broth. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, comforting meal with very little hands-on time. Plus, the aroma filling your home is simply irresistible! For terms of service regarding website usage, please refer to our Terms of Use.

Can I use a different type of meat for these meatballs?

Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, you can easily substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a blend of meats. Just be mindful that leaner meats might require a little extra moisture, so you might want to add a tablespoon or two of milk or broth to your meatball mixture if using very lean options.

What can I serve with Crockpot French Onion Meatballs?

These meatballs are incredibly versatile! They’re wonderful served over pasta like egg noodles or spaghetti, or alongside fluffy rice. For a more casual meal or appetizer, you can serve them in a small slow cooker with toothpicks. They also pair nicely with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into that delicious sauce.

Variations of Crockpot French Onion Meatballs You Can Try

While the classic crockpot French onion meatballs are fantastic on their own, there are so many fun ways to switch them up! If you’re looking for easy slow cooker French onion meatballs with a twist, consider these ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mix or the broth for a little heat that complements the savory flavors.
• Different Meats: Don’t hesitate to swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. For a richer flavor, try a mix of beef and pork. Remember that leaner meats might need a touch more liquid.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers in your meatball mixture. The rest of the recipe, including the French onion soup mix and broth, is usually gluten-free, but always check labels to be sure!
• Herbaceous Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives into the meatball mix for an added burst of freshness. You can also add a bay leaf to the crockpot for deeper flavor. These variations ensure your crockpot meatballs with French onion seasoning are always exciting and delicious.

Crockpot French Onion Meatballs: Dreamy 1-Pot Meal

---

• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Easy Crockpot French Onion Meatballs recipe for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, these tender meatballs simmer in a savory broth with classic French onion soup flavors, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This slow cooker dish requires minimal prep and is a hit with the whole family.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 packet French onion soup mix
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

---

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs.
3. Place the meatballs in the crockpot.
4. In a separate bowl, mix beef broth and French onion soup mix, then pour over the meatballs.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and cook for an additional 15 minutes until melted.

Notes

• For a healthier option, lean ground beef can be used.
• Serve over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
• Can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for later use.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-8 hours
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Crockpot
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 meatball
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Crockpot French Onion Meatballs, Slow cooker French onion meatballs, Crock pot French onion meatball recipe, Easy crockpot French onion meatballs, French onion beef meatballs slow cooker, Crockpot meatballs French onion soup flavor, How to make crockpot French onion meatballs, What are French onion meatballs crockpot, Why make French onion meatballs in crockpot, Slow cooker beef and onion meatballs, French onion crockpot appetizer meatballs, Crockpot French onion meatball appetizer, Best crockpot French onion meatballs recipe, Simple slow cooker French onion meatballs, Crockpot meatballs with French onion seasoning, French onion meatball casserole crockpot, Crockpot French onion meatball dinner, Homemade French onion meatballs slow cooker, Easy slow cooker French onion meatballs, Crockpot French onion meatballs with gravy