Slow cooker recipes are a lifesaver for busy individuals craving delicious homemade meals without the hassle. Among the plethora of options, Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs stand out for their simplicity and rich flavor profile. This recipe combines the classic taste of French onion soup with the convenience of hearty meatballs, creating a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
- 1 (32 oz.) bag of frozen meatballs
- 2 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 cup of shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare Slow Cooker: Start by greasing the slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Ingredients: Place the frozen meatballs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the thinly sliced onions on top of the meatballs.
- Mix Broth and Seasonings: In a separate bowl, mix the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the meatballs and onions in the slow cooker.
- Add Butter: Cut the butter into small pieces and scatter them evenly over the top of the onions and broth mixture.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on the slow cooker model.
- Cheese Topping: About 15-20 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese over the meatballs and let it melt into the dish.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve the meatballs hot, either on their own or over cooked pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Caramelized Onions: For a deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the onions before adding them to the slow cooker. This extra step will enhance the sweetness and complexity of the dish.
- Additional Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano.
- Homemade Meatballs: While frozen meatballs are convenient, homemade meatballs can take this dish to the next level. Use your favorite meatball recipe or try a combination of ground beef and pork for extra flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, use homemade or store-bought low-carb meatballs and ensure that the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are both keto-compliant. Additionally, you can omit the onions or reduce the quantity to lower the carb count further.
- Low-Carb: If you’re following a low-carb diet, simply watch your portion sizes and pair the meatballs with non-starchy vegetables like steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or rice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen? A: Absolutely! Fresh meatballs will work just as well in this recipe. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: While the base of this recipe relies on meatballs and beef broth for flavor, you can experiment with vegetarian alternatives such as meatless meatballs and vegetable broth. However, keep in mind that the taste and texture may differ from the original version.
Q: How long can I store leftovers? A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze both cooked and uncooked meatballs in the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs offer a delightful twist on a classic comfort food favorite. With minimal effort required, this recipe delivers maximum flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, watching your carb intake, or simply craving a hearty meal, these savory meatballs are sure to satisfy. Give them a try and experience the magic of slow cooking in every bite!
