Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that practically makes itself, then you have to try these Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs! This dish is all about rich flavors and melted cheese, making it a hit at any gathering or just a busy weeknight dinner. The best part? You hardly have to lift a finger! Whether you’re hosting friends for game day or simply want a stress-free family dinner, these meatballs are sure to warm hearts and bellies.

I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer or over rice or noodles for a full meal. Plus, the combination of onions and gooey gruyere cheese creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can set this dish in motion and let your slow cooker do all the work!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can whip this up in advance and just heat it when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of beef broth, savory gravy, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs is a breeze! They’re all simple and wholesome, making it easy to create this delicious dish right at home.

For the Meatballs

• 2 medium yellow onions (sliced)
• 26 ounces frozen meatballs
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 ounce package brown gravy mix
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon white apple vinegar
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons corn starch
• 1½ cups gruyere cheese (grated)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what’s available or your personal preferences:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Change the cheese: If you don’t have gruyere, mozzarella or provolone will melt beautifully too!
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

How to Make Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Place the sliced onions in the bottom of your 6-quart crock pot. This step is essential because the onions will caramelize as they cook, creating a sweet base for our meatballs.

Step 2: Layer the Meatballs

Now, pour those frozen meatballs over the onions. No need to thaw them first; they’ll cook perfectly as everything simmers together!

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the beef broth, gravy mix, minced garlic, black pepper, dried thyme, and white apple vinegar. Whisk until everything is well mixed. Pour this flavorful concoction over your meatballs—this is where the magic happens!

Step 4: Let It Cook

Cover your crock pot and set it on high for 2½-3½ hours or low for 5-6 hours. Cooking slowly allows all those delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Thicken and Add Cheese

Once cooked, whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl before pouring it over the meatballs. Give everything a gentle mix until well combined. Finally, sprinkle grated gruyere cheese on top and let it cook for another ten minutes until it’s melty and delightful.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Spoon those delicious meatballs over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes. Sit back and enjoy every bite with family or friends—it doesn’t get much better than this!

Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

Cooking can be a breeze, especially with this flavorful recipe! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Quality Meatballs: Opt for high-quality frozen meatballs for the best flavor and texture. They will absorb the delicious broth and seasonings better, making each bite a delight.

• Sauté Onions for Extra Flavor: If you have a few extra minutes, sautéing the onions before adding them to the crock pot can enhance their sweetness and richness, giving your dish a deeper flavor profile.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference. Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika can give it an extra kick that elevates the dish.

• Experiment with Cheese: While gruyere cheese adds a nutty flavor, you can mix it up by using mozzarella or provolone for a different taste experience. Each cheese melts beautifully and adds its unique touch.

• Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble everything in the crock pot and store it in the fridge overnight. Just set it to cook in the morning for a hassle-free dinner!

How to Serve Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

When it comes to serving these delightful meatballs, presentation is key! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this dish.

Garnishes

Elevate your meal with these simple garnishes that add flavor and visual appeal:

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich flavors.

• Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild oniony crunch that complements the meatballs beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pairing side dishes with your Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious suggestions:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes makes them an ideal base for soaking up the savory broth from the meatballs.

• Steamed Vegetables: A medley of steamed broccoli, carrots, and snap peas adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the meatballs.

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftovers from your plate. It’s an easy and satisfying addition!

• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs is another great option that complements the flavors without overpowering them. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead!

With these tips and serving ideas in mind, you’re all set to create a memorable meal with your Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are perfect for meal prepping! You can easily prepare them in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to store them properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the meatballs to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the meatballs and sauce into an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the meatballs into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before adding cheese.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, heat in a crock pot on low for a few hours.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs that you might find helpful!

Can I use homemade meatballs for Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs can add an extra touch of flavor. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crock pot.

How can I make Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs gluten-free?

To make these meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free beef broth and ensure your gravy mix is certified gluten-free.

What sides pair well with Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

These delicious meatballs go wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even a fresh side salad. The options are endless!

Can I adjust the seasoning in my Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Of course! Feel free to tweak the spices like garlic and thyme according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are not just a meal; they’re a warm hug on a plate! With minimal prep time and lots of flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these tasty meatballs with your loved ones as much as I do. Happy cooking!