Directions
Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, French onion soup mix, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into meatballs.
Brown Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, ensuring they are cooked evenly. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker.
Caramelize Onions:
In the same skillet used for browning the meatballs, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook them over medium heat until they turn golden brown and caramelized, which typically takes around 10–15 minutes. Once caramelized, add the onions to the slow cooker atop the meatballs.
Prepare Gravy:
In a mixing bowl, combine beef broth, red wine (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine, then pour the mixture over the meatballs and onions in the slow cooker.
Cooking:
Set the slow cooker to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to become tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste during the cooking process.
Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle the Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs with fresh thyme for a burst of aroma and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful combination of savory meatballs, caramelized onions, and rich gravy.
