Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs Recipe

For a dish that’s packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, this Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs recipe is a winner! Juicy meatballs are slow-cooked in a rich, savory beefy onion sauce that comes together using just a few simple ingredients, including a classic onion soup mix. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or potlucks, these crockpot meatballs are sure to impress. Whether you serve them as a main course over mashed potatoes or rice, or as an appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and variations!

this Recipe

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What are Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs?

Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs are tender, flavorful meatballs slow-cooked in a deliciously savory sauce made with a classic beefy onion soup mix. The soup mix creates a rich, onion-infused gravy that perfectly coats the meatballs, infusing them with incredible flavor as they cook. This easy, set-it-and-forget-it dish is perfect for casual dinners, parties, or as a satisfying game-day snack.

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Ingredients List for Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful and easy meatball dish:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground Beef (80% lean) – 1 pound, for a juicy base.
• Breadcrumbs – ½ cup, to help bind the meatballs.
• Egg – 1 large, for binding the meat.
• Parmesan Cheese – ¼ cup, grated, for extra flavor.
• Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon, for savory depth.
• Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon, for added onion flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.

For the Sauce:

• Lipton Onion Soup Mix (or any brand) – 1 packet (1 oz), for the beefy onion flavor.
• Beef Broth – 1½ cups, to create the sauce base.
• Worcestershire Sauce – 1 tablespoon, for a rich, umami boost.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup – 1 can (10.5 oz), for added creaminess and richness.

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs Recipe is versatile, so feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your onion soup mix and cream of mushroom soup are gluten-free.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for a bit of heat.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or sliced onions to the crockpot for added flavor and texture.
• Creamy Option: Stir in sour cream at the end of cooking for an extra creamy sauce.

These variations let you customize the dish to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences while keeping it delicious and satisfying.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs step by step:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
   • Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter, and set them aside.
2. Brown the Meatballs (Optional):
   • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Brown the meatballs in batches for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden. This step adds extra flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
3. Mix the Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the onion soup mix, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and cream of mushroom soup until smooth and combined.
4. Add Everything to the Crockpot:
   • Pour a bit of the sauce mixture into the bottom of the crockpot. Then, place the meatballs into the crockpot in a single layer, stacking them if necessary. Pour the remaining sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Slow Cook the Meatballs:
   • Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 6-7 hours or on High for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   • Once the meatballs are cooked, give the sauce a stir to ensure everything is well combined. Serve the meatballs over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color.

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How to Cook Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to make Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs:

1. Mix the meatball ingredients and form into small meatballs.
2. Brown the meatballs in a skillet (optional) for extra flavor.
3. Mix the sauce with onion soup mix, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup.
4. Place the meatballs and sauce in the crockpot and slow cook for 6-7 hours on low.
5. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and garnish with parsley.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overworking the Meat: When mixing the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the ground beef, as this can make the meatballs tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Not Browning the Meatballs (Optional): While you can skip this step, browning the meatballs before adding them to the crockpot adds extra flavor and helps them hold their shape during cooking.
• Using Low-Fat Beef: Ground beef with some fat (80/20 or 85/15) will result in juicier meatballs. Leaner beef may make the meatballs drier, so consider adding a little extra fat or moisture if using lean ground beef.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

These meatballs are rich and flavorful, and with a few presentation touches, you can elevate the dish even further.

How to Serve Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs:

• Over Mashed Potatoes: Serve the meatballs and sauce over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
• With Rice or Egg Noodles: Pair the meatballs with fluffy rice or buttered egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying dish.
• As an Appetizer: Serve the meatballs on toothpicks with extra sauce for dipping at parties or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas for Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme adds freshness and color to the dish.
• Rustic Serving Bowl: Serve the meatballs in a rustic cast iron skillet or a large serving bowl for a cozy, family-style presentation.
• Extra Sauce on the Side: Keep a small dish of extra sauce on the table so everyone can drizzle more over their meatballs if they like.

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Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge overnight. When ready to cook, just add them to the crockpot with the sauce.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze well. After cooking, let the meatballs cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the crockpot or on the stovetop.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes! You can use store-bought frozen meatballs if you're short on time. Just add them to the crockpot with the sauce and cook as directed.

What can I serve with beefy onion meatballs?
These meatballs are great served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and check that your onion soup mix and cream of mushroom soup are gluten-free.

How do I keep my meatballs from falling apart?
Make sure to use an egg and breadcrumbs as binders, and mix the meat mixture gently to avoid overworking it. You can also chill the meatballs for 15-30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.

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Conclusion:

These Beefy Onion Crockpot Meatballs are an easy, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or when you need a hearty meal with minimal effort. With tender, juicy meatballs cooked in a savory onion and beefy gravy, this recipe is a guaranteed hit! Serve them over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice for a complete meal, or as a party appetizer that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Enjoy!

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