Name: Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 240 min
Total time: 255 min
Ingredients: 36 ounces frozen meatballs; 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced into half moons; 3-5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups low sodium beef broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1.5 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced; 0.75 teaspoon black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese; 1 bunch fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs is my go-to recipe for effortlessly bringing family and friends together around the dinner table. With the rich flavors of French onion soup and the heartiness of meatballs, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or even game day celebrations. The greatest part? You can throw everything into the crock pot and let it work its magic while you attend to other matters. The aroma that fills your home as it simmers is just the cherry on top!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What sets this recipe apart is its incredible simplicity while delivering exceptional comfort food flavors. It marries the classic taste of French onion soup with the convenience of frozen meatballs, making it an effortless option for busy cooks. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen; just a few minutes of prep will have you on your way to a warm, savory meal.

This dish is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a movie night with friends, preparing a casual family dinner, or needing a dish to impress at a potluck. Plus, who could resist the melty Gruyere cheese on top?

“This meal has quickly become a family favorite. It’s so easy to prepare and simply delicious!” – A happy home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Making Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs is so straightforward that you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. You start by layering frozen meatballs, onions, and garlic in your slow cooker. Then, a flavorful broth mixture comes together in just a few minutes. Pour it over the meatballs, and then let it work its slow-cooking magic while you go about your day. The whole process takes just a bit of prep and minimal effort, creating a consistently delicious dish every time.

What You’ll Need

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)

Feel free to swap out the Gruyere cheese for another melting cheese like mozzarella or provolone, depending on your preference!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs served in a delicious broth with cheese

Place the frozen meatballs at the bottom of the crockpot.
Layer sliced onions and minced garlic on top of the meatballs.
In a mixing bowl or large measuring cup, whisk together the beef broth, French onion soup, balsamic vinegar, minced thyme, and black pepper with the cornstarch until well combined.
Pour the broth mixture over the meatballs, onions, and garlic.
Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 3-5 hours, until the meatballs are heated thoroughly. Don’t forget to stir halfway through to promote even heating and prevent burning.
Right before serving, sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese on top, cover again, and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme before serving. Enjoy as an appetizer or over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete meal!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs can be served in various creative ways! Treat them as a delightful appetizer alongside crusty bread for dipping. Alternatively, serve them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy egg noodles for a hearty dinner. Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich flavors. For a fun twist, slide them onto small hoagie rolls for delicious meatball subs!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within 3-4 days for the best flavor and safety. If you’d like to save some for later, you can freeze the cooked meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Always ensure you heat the leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Helpful Cooking Tips

If you’re pressed for time, opt for pre-sliced onions available in the produce section.
Don’t hesitate to add other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also enhance the umami essence if you desire.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a bit more balsamic vinegar can give it extra depth and complexity.

Creative Twists

The versatility of this recipe allows for several fun variations! Consider adding some chopped fresh herbs, like rosemary or parsley, for a flavor boost. You can also ditch the meatballs for a vegetarian alternative using plant-based meat substitutes. For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Alternatively, a dash of wine along with the beef broth can elevate the sauce even more.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is just about 15 minutes, making it a quick option for busy days.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then simply start the crock pot in the morning.

What’s a suitable alternative to beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth for a lighter dish, or chicken broth if you prefer that flavor.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Make sure to use gluten-free meatballs and check the labels on your beef broth and French onion soup for gluten-containing ingredients.

This Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs recipe is not only easy but promises a comforting meal that brings everyone together. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness!