Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are a hearty treat! Juicy meatballs cook slow and soak up a tasty mix of pepperoncini and ranch seasoning, making every bite delicious.
They’re perfect for parties or a cozy night in. I love how easy they are—just toss everything in, set your timer, and relax. Who doesn’t love that kind of cooking? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatballs: I like using frozen beef meatballs for their rich flavor, but turkey meatballs are great if you want a lighter option. You can even make homemade ones with your favorite ground meat!
Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning mix adds wonderful flavor. If you have a homemade seasoning blend, feel free to use that instead. Just mix garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and a bit of salt to mimic ranch.
Au Jus Gravy: This packet brings a savory depth. If you don’t have it, a beef broth or homemade gravy can work as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings since they might be saltier.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These add a zesty kick! If you want less heat, substitute them with banana peppers or omit entirely. Adding a splash of vinegar can also bring some brightness.
How Do You Cook Meatballs in a Crockpot for Best Results?
Cooking meatballs in a crockpot is all about embracing low and slow heat for tender results. Here’s how to nail it:
- Start with frozen meatballs; they cook evenly without risking dryness.
- Layer seasonings on top before adding butter—it melts and enhances flavors.
- Let it cook on low for at least 4 hours; this allows the seasonings to infuse deeply.
Gently stir the sauce before serving to ensure all meatballs are coated. This makes a big difference in flavor!
Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef or turkey)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers, whole
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Creamy mashed potatoes or grits, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. Once everything’s in the crockpot, you’ll need to cook it on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. So, you can set it up and then enjoy your day while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs in the crockpot. Spread them out in an even layer so they cook evenly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
2. Add the Seasonings:
Next, evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix over the meatballs. This will add a fantastic flavor base.
3. Add the Butter:
Cut the stick of butter into chunks and place them across the top of the meatballs and seasonings. The melting butter will create a rich sauce.
4. Add the Peppers:
Scatter the whole pepperoncini peppers on top. They’ll add a nice kick and enhance the flavor of the meatballs.
5. Slow Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the meatballs to be heated through and tender.
6. Mix It Up:
Once cooked, stir gently to combine the butter and seasoning so that every meatball is coated in that yummy sauce.
7. Serve:
Serve the Mississippi meatballs hot over creamy mashed potatoes or grits for a comforting meal!
8. Garnish:
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Offer extra pepperoncini on the side for those who love a little more heat!
Enjoy this flavorful, easy-to-make slow cooker classic!
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs can work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your meatballs—smaller ones may need less time.
What Can I Use Instead of Au Jus Gravy Mix?
If you don’t have au jus mix, you can substitute it with beef broth or stock. Just keep in mind that this may require some adjustments in seasoning since broths can vary in saltiness. You might also add a bit of soy sauce for depth!
How Do I Store Leftover Mississippi Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Sure! If you love heat, include sliced jalapeños or use more pepperoncini in the mix. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or drizzle with a hot sauce before serving for an added kick!
