Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs
Tender meatballs smothered in a rich, flavorful sauce inspired by French onion soup, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef (or lamb for a twist) Ground lamb can add a unique flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Sauce
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced Browned and caramelized before adding to the slow cooker.
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Ensure it’s halal.
For Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional) Recommended for extra flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly blended.
- Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking the Onions
- In a skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil and sauté the sliced onions until browned and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
Assembling the Dish
- Spray your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
- Place the caramelized onions at the bottom, followed by the formed meatballs.
- Pour in the beef (or vegetable) broth and Worcestershire sauce, covering the meatballs.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Serving
- If you’re feeling indulgent, about 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the meatballs. Cover again until the cheese has melted.
Notes
For optimal flavor, let the meatballs cook longer on low rather than high. Don't skip browning the onions for that rich flavor. Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.