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Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: American
  • Cuisine: Slow Cooker

Description

Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs combine the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup with tender beef meatballs, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. This dish is both comforting and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 26 ounces frozen beef meatballs
  • 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 ounce package brown gravy mix
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 1/2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
  • Optional: 1/4 cup water mixed with 2 tablespoons cornstarch for thickening

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
    • Place the sliced onions at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
    • Add the frozen meatballs on top of the onions.
  2. Make the Sauce:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, gravy mix, minced garlic, black pepper, dried thyme, and white wine vinegar until well combined.
  3. Combine and Cook:
    • Pour the sauce mixture over the meatballs and onions in the slow cooker.
    • Cover and cook on high for 2ยฝ to 3ยฝ hours or on low for 5 to 6 hours.
  4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
    • If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together ยผ cup water and 2 tablespoons cornstarch to create a slurry.
    • Pour the slurry into the slow cooker, gently stirring to combine.
  5. Add Cheese:
    • Sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese over the top of the meatballs.
    • Cover and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
  6. Serve:
    • Once the cheese is melted and the sauce has thickened to your liking, serve the meatballs hot.
    • These meatballs pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty French bread.

Notes

  • Meatball Options:ย While this recipe uses frozen beef meatballs for convenience, you can substitute them with homemade meatballs or use turkey or chicken meatballs if preferred.
  • Cheese Substitutes:ย If Gruyere cheese is unavailable, Swiss cheese or provolone can be used as alternatives.
  • Storage:ย Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.