Slow Cooker French Onion Meatballs (Printer-Friendly Version)

Savory meatballs and onions simmer together with melty Gruyere, perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests.

# Ingredients Needed:

→ Main Components

01 - 32 ounces frozen beef meatballs, uniform in size and quality
02 - 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
03 - 22 ounces condensed French onion soup (2 cans, 11 ounces each, preferably low sodium)
04 - 2 cups Gruyere cheese, freshly shredded
05 - Nonstick cooking spray, for greasing slow cooker

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Coat the insert of your slow cooker evenly with nonstick cooking spray to facilitate cleanup and prevent sticking.
02 - Distribute frozen meatballs in an even layer along the bottom of the slow cooker. Scatter thinly sliced onions over the meatballs.
03 - Pour both cans of condensed French onion soup over the onions and meatballs. Use a spoon to gently mix so sauce and onions coat the meatballs evenly.
04 - Cover with the lid and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until onions are very soft and meatballs are heated through.
05 - Twenty minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese evenly over the meatball mixture. Cover and continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
06 - Spoon meatballs and caramelized onions with sauce over mashed potatoes, toasted French bread, or rice. Serve immediately while hot.

# Helpful Hints:

01 - Slice onions as uniformly as possible to achieve even caramelization and texture.
02 - For optimal cheese melt, shred Gruyere fresh from the block rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
03 - Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months or refrigerate for three days.
04 - Turkey or chicken meatballs and Swiss or provolone cheese may be substituted for dietary preferences.
05 - Add a splash of dry sherry, white wine, or Worcestershire sauce for increased flavor depth.