Description
Tender meatballs infused with caramelized onions and rich beef broth, topped with gooey melted cheese.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium sweet yellow onions, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup Gruyère or mozzarella cheese, grated
- Fresh thyme, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, finely chopped onions, cracked egg, and seasonings. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
- Form the meatballs: Scoop out portions and roll them into golf-ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet.
- Brown the meatballs (optional): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Brown the meatballs for a few minutes until golden.
- Prepare the sauce: In the crock pot, add the beef broth, sliced onions, and thyme. Optionally, add a splash of white wine.
- Combine and cook: Nestle the meatballs into the slow cooker, ensuring they’re coated in the broth. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Add the cheese: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the top with cheese and cover to melt.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or chicken. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball with sauce
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: meatballs, crock pot, French onion, comfort food, easy recipe