Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs

Introduction

As a lover of both French onion soup and meatballs, I decided to combine the two into a delicious and savory dish that can be easily made in a crock pot. This recipe for Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and comforting dish. Let me guide you through the preparation of this mouthwatering recipe.

Ingredients

To make Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 cups sliced onions
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Steps

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Shape the mixture into meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they become caramelized and golden brown, stirring occasionally. This process may take around 15-20 minutes. Once done, transfer the onions to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Using the same skillet, add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. This helps to seal in the flavors. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to the crock pot.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the all-purpose flour and whisk until well combined, creating a roux. Slowly pour in the beef broth while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Pour the sauce over the meatballs in the crock pot. Add the caramelized onions and gently stir to combine. Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Step 6: Serve

Once the meatballs are ready, sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese on top and cover the crock pot for a few minutes, allowing the cheese to melt. Serve the Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs hot with your favorite side dish, such as mashed potatoes or crusty bread. Enjoy!

Keto and Low Carb Variations

If you’re following a keto or low carb diet, you can still enjoy this delicious recipe with a few modifications:

• Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
• Omit the all-purpose flour in the sauce and use a low carb thickener like xanthan gum or glucomannan.
• Serve the meatballs with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of mashed potatoes or bread.

Tips

Here are some tips to make the most out of your Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs:

• For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine to the sauce.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Mozzarella.
• Make a large batch and freeze the leftovers for a quick and easy meal later on.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Conclusion

Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, infused with the rich flavors of French onion soup. This slow-cooked dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests. The combination of tender meatballs, caramelized onions, and gooey cheese creates a comforting and satisfying meal. Give this recipe a try and let the flavors transport you to a bistro in the heart of France.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A1: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?

A2: While the crock pot allows for slow and even cooking, you can still make this recipe on the stovetop. Simply follow the same steps but adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Q3: How long can I store the leftovers?

A3: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.