Why Make This Recipe
Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are a delicious and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of French onion soup to your table in an easy, hands-off way. Cooking them in a slow cooker allows the meatballs to become tender and soak up all the wonderful flavors of the soup. This recipe is perfect for busy days or gatherings when you want a hearty meal without much fuss.
How to Make Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups French onion soup
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in the crock pot.
- Pour the French onion soup over the meatballs.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs. Cover and let the cheese melt.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
How to Serve Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs
Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are best served warm. You can place them on a bed of egg noodles or rice for a complete meal. They also pair well with a side of crusty bread for dipping. You can garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
How to Store Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs
To store any leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and they will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Tips to Make Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs
- For added flavor, try mixing in some Italian seasoning or chopped fresh herbs with the meatball mixture.
- If you want a thicker sauce, you can let the soup reduce by cooking on high for the last hour without the lid.
- Feel free to adjust the size of the meatballs according to your preference, just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Additionally, you could substitute the French onion soup with another flavor of soup, like beef broth and sautéed onions, for a different twist.
FAQs
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I cook these meatballs on the stove?
Yes, you can pan-fry the meatballs in a skillet until browned, and then add them to your favorite sauce to simmer until fully cooked.
What should I serve with these meatballs?
They pair well with pasta, rice, or a simple salad. You could also serve them in a sub with toasted bread for a meatball sandwich.
