Description
This Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs recipe combines tender frozen meatballs with a rich, savory French onion sauce made from sweet onions, garlic, beef broth, and condensed French onion soup. Slow-cooked to perfection and topped with melty Gruyere cheese, this dish is ideal for a comforting appetizer or dinner served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 36 ounces frozen meatballs
- 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced into half moons
- 3-5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed French onion soup
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 ½ teaspoons fresh thyme, minced
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: Place frozen meatballs evenly in the crockpot to form the base of the dish.
- Add aromatics: Top the meatballs with thinly sliced sweet onions and minced garlic, spreading them evenly over the meatballs to infuse flavor.
- Mix the sauce: In a mixing bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the low sodium beef broth, condensed French onion soup, balsamic vinegar, minced fresh thyme, black pepper, and cornstarch until smooth and well combined.
- Combine and cook: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the meatballs, onions, and garlic in the crockpot. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 3-5 hours, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from burning.
- Add cheese topping: Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese over the top of the meatballs. Cover again and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme if desired. Serve the French Onion Meatballs as a delicious appetizer or over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a hearty meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Stir the meatballs halfway through cooking to avoid sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
- Adjust the cooking time based on your crockpot; some models may cook faster or slower.
- Use Gruyere cheese for authentic flavor, but Swiss or mozzarella can be substitutes if needed.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated gently in the crockpot or stovetop.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
