Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs

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Dive into the cozy, comforting flavors of Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs, a perfect fusion of tender, savory meatballs and the sweet, deep flavor of caramelized onions. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for busy weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining, and delicious enough to please a crowd!

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet French onion soup mix
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized, about 15 minutes.
  4. Place the caramelized onions in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  5. Place the formed meatballs over the onions.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then pour over the meatballs.
  7. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through.
  8. If using, sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the meatballs in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Variations:

  • Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option.
  • Italian Twist: Add Italian seasoning to the meatball mix and mozzarella cheese on top for an Italian flair.
  • Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the meat mixture for a bit of heat.

Serving Tips:

  • Serve over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Garnish with additional fresh parsley or a sprinkle of thyme for added freshness and flavor.

Storage Tips:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information:

  • These meatballs offer a good source of protein. Using lean ground beef or turkey can reduce fat content.
  • Nutritional information per serving:

FAQs:

Q: Can I make these meatballs gluten-free? A: Yes, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or rolled oats to make them gluten-free.

Q: Can I cook the meatballs without caramelizing the onions first? A: Yes, but caramelizing the onions adds a depth of flavor that enhances the dish.

Conclusion:

Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs are a savory, mouthwatering meal that combines simplicity with gourmet flavor. Whether for a family dinner or special occasion, these meatballs will be a sure hit!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Total Time: About 4 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours 20 minutes