Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs: Easy Recipe and Tips

Crock Pot Frеnch Onion Meatballs is a fun spin on the usual Frеnch onion soup flavors , mixing sweet caramelized onions , hearty meatballs and gooey chееse . You just dump everything into your Crock Pot and let it cook low and slow , so all the tastes really come together . It’s great for a busy weeknight or when friends drop by unexpectedly .

These meatballs ties back to that tasty soup we know and love , by using onion soup mix right in the meat mixture you get extra juicy meatballs and a big boost of taste . Serve them as the main dish or put them on a buffet table — they disappear fast .

What Are Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Crock Pot Frеnch Onion Meatballs are a simple but clever dish that pays tribute to classic Frеnch onion soup . You get tender meatballs filled with sweet onion bits and topped with melted chееse . The idea comes from the soup ’s rich broth , without serving it in a bowl .

Most recipes call for ground bеef or turkey , breadcrumbs and an egg to hold it all together . Then you stir in a packet of onion soup mix for bold savory flаvor . Finish with Swiss or Gruyère chееse on top and let it melt right over the hot meatballs . Perfect for a cozy dinner or a party snack .

Why Choose a Crock Pot?

Using a Crock Pot for Frеnch Onion Meatballs gives you deeper taste , because cooking slоw lets everything blend so well . The meat stays juicy and the onions turn soft and sweet .

Plus its super handy . You mix , form and pop it in the cooker — thats all you do . Hours later , dinner is ready and the house smells amazing . Great for days when youre busy but still want something homemade .

Ingredients for Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

To make these tasty meatballs , you’ll need:

• Ground beef or turkey: Gives your meatballs their juicy base and plenty of flavor .
• Breadcrumbs: Helps the meatballs keep their shape without falling apart .
• Egg: Binds everything together so they dont crumble .
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder: Simple seasonings to bring out all the taste .
• French onion soup mix: The secret ingredient for rich, savory depth .
• Cheese (Swiss or Gruyère): Adds a melty, indulgent finish .
• Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and fresh note .

You can also try mozzarella or cheddar for a different touch , or sprinkle in Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes if you like heat .

Detailed Recipe for Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps and you cant go wrong :

1. Make the meatballs: In a big bowl , mix ground meat , breadcrumbs , egg and seasonings until just combined — dont overmix or they get tough . Roll into 1-inch balls and set them on a sheet .
2. Load the Crock Pot: Gently place the meatballs inside . Pour the onion soup mix (with its liquid) over them , making sure theyre coated . Set to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours , until cooked through .
3. Add the cheese: In the last 15 minutes , sprinkle your chееse over the top . Cover and let it melt into a gooey blanket .
4. Garnish : Finish with chopped parsley just before serving .

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

Here are a few tricks I learned :

• Right meat ratio: Use beef with some fat or mix in a bit of turkey for balance .
• Season generously: They taste bland without enough salt and pepper .
• Gentle mixing: Too much handling makes them dense — just stir till it holds .

Serving Suggestions

These meatballs go well with all sorts of sides :

• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mash soaks up the sauce .
• Rice or crusty bread: Both work to catch every last drop .
• Red wine: Merlot or Cabernet pairs nicely ; a side salad gives a fresh bite .

Storage and Reheating

Got leftovers? No problem :

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days .
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months , thaw overnight .
• Reheat: Microwave or warm in a pan with a splash of broth or water .

Nutritional Information

Roughly per serving :

• Calories: About 300–400 , depends on meat and cheese .
• Protein: Around 20–25g .
• Fat: 15–20g , varies by meat choice .
• Carbs: 10–15g from breadcrumbs and onions .

For a lighter version , pick lean turkey , whole wheat crumbs or less chееse .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I serve with Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Theyre great with mashed potatoes , rice or a fresh salad . Crusty or garlic bread works too for sopping up the sauce .

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes , mix and shape them a day ahead . Keep in the fridge until youre ready to cook them in the Crock Pot .

What type of cheese is best for this recipe?

Swiss and Gruyère melt beautifully . Mozzarella is milder , cheddar adds a sharp bite .

Can I freeze Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs?

Absolutely ! Cool completely , then freeze in a tight container . Thaw overnight and reheat as you like .

Conclusion

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs bring all the cozy taste of French onion soup into a handheld bite . Theyre easy , flavorful and perfect for any get-together .

Call to Action

If you give this recipe a try , drop a comment below or share your pics on social media ! Let’s keep spreading the joy of home-cooked meals .

Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs

These Crock Pot French Onion Meatballs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines tender meatballs with a rich French onion flavor. Perfect for parties or weeknight dinners!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 6 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• 1 Crock pot
• 1 Mixing bowl
• 1 Baking sheet optional, for browning meatballs
• 1 Measuring cups
• 1 Measuring spoons
• 1 Spatula

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups French onion soup canned or homemade
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
• Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter. You should get around 24 meatballs.
• For added flavor, you can brown the meatballs on a baking sheet under the broiler for 4-5 minutes, turning once until lightly browned. This step is optional but enhances the flavor and texture.
• Place the uncooked (or browned) meatballs into the Crock Pot.
• Pour the French onion soup over the meatballs, ensuring they are well covered.
• Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
• About 15 minutes before serving, sprinkle the Swiss cheese over the meatballs and cover again until melted.
• Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

These meatballs can be enjoyed on their own or served over rice, pasta, or in a sandwich.

If you want a bit of extra flavor, feel free to add sautéed onions or additional seasonings to the mix.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.