Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs

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Introduction:

These Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs are the perfect blend of comfort food and gourmet flavor. With tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory French onion-inspired sauce and slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe transforms a classic appetizer into a hearty main dish. Ideal for busy days, potlucks, or cozy dinners, it’s a one-pot wonder your whole family will love.

Origin:

Inspired by the iconic French onion soup, this dish takes the same deep, caramelized onion flavor and infuses it into a hearty meatball recipe. By using a slow cooker, the flavors meld together beautifully over time, making this a modern American twist on a French classic.

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

For the French Onion Sauce:

  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for depth)
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot for low-carb) + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Optional Ingredients/Substitutions:

  • Use frozen meatballs to save time (homemade preferred for best texture)
  • Add mushrooms for an earthy boost
  • Swap Gruyère with mozzarella or provolone if preferred
  • Add a splash of red wine in place of part of the broth for richness
  • Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley

Instructions:

  1. Make the meatballs:
    In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix until just combined. Form into small meatballs (about 1.5 inches). Set aside.
  2. Caramelize the onions (optional for extra flavor):
    In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add onions and cook for 15–20 minutes until golden and soft, stirring frequently. This step boosts flavor but can be skipped if needed.
  3. Assemble in slow cooker:
    Place the onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar (if using), and beef broth. Gently place the meatballs on top.
  4. Cook:
    Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 2.5–3 hours until meatballs are fully cooked.
  5. Thicken the sauce:
    Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the slow cooker 30 minutes before serving. Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and stir to combine.
  6. Serve:
    Garnish with more cheese or herbs if desired. Serve warm over mashed potatoes, rice, or on toasted bread.

Tips for Success:

  • Browning the meatballs before adding to the slow cooker enhances flavor and texture (optional).
  • Don’t skip caramelizing the onions if time allows—it gives a true French onion soup taste.
  • Stir gently when adding cheese and thickener to keep meatballs intact.
  • If using store-bought frozen meatballs, adjust cooking time slightly and reduce salt.

Recommendations:

  • Serve over creamy mashed cauliflower or low-carb noodles for a keto-friendly version.
  • Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.
  • Make a double batch and freeze extra meatballs (without the sauce) for a future meal.
  • Use leftovers in a meatball sub or over pasta for an easy next-day lunch.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. 4 meatballs with sauce):

  • Calories: 380
  • Fat: 24g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Net Carbs: 9g

(Nutrition may vary based on specific brands, portion sizes, and substitutions.)

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