Description
This Crockpot French Onion Meatballs recipe features tender, flavorful meatballs simmered low and slow in a rich broth infused with caramelized onions and French onion soup mix. It combines the comforting taste of classic French onion soup with hearty meatballs, making for a perfect cozy meal that’s easy to prepare and full of savory depth.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 packet French onion soup mix
Onions and Broth
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1-2 tablespoons cooking oil (for caramelizing onions)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 packet French onion soup mix (remaining from the packet)
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: Slice the yellow onions thinly and sauté them in a hot pan with a bit of cooking oil over medium heat. Cook slowly until the onions become golden and caramelized, which enhances their natural sweetness and rich flavor.
- Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and half of the French onion soup mix. Mix gently but thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients without overworking the meat to ensure tender meatballs.
- Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into uniform meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter to promote even cooking.
- Assemble in the Crockpot: Spread half of the caramelized onions on the bottom of the crockpot. Arrange the meatballs evenly on top of the onions, then cover with the remaining caramelized onions. Pour the beef broth evenly over the mixture and sprinkle the remaining French onion soup mix on top.
- Cook Low and Slow: Set the crockpot on low heat and cook for 6 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the meatballs and allows them to absorb the rich, savory flavors of the broth and onions.
- Finish and Serve: Once cooked, gently stir the meatballs and onions to coat everything in the flavorful broth. Serve the meatballs hot, accompanied by your choice of sides and garnishes for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- For best flavor, caramelize the onions slowly over medium heat to develop their natural sweetness.
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep meatballs tender.
- You can use lean ground beef to reduce fat content if desired.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
