Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are hearty and packed with flavor! These meatballs soak in a tasty mix of ranch seasoning and pepperoncini for a blast of joy in every bite.
Making these in a crockpot means less work for you—just toss everything in and let it do its magic. I love serving them at parties; they always disappear fast! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatballs: I usually opt for frozen beef meatballs for convenience, but feel free to use homemade ones! You can also try turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This is the key to the dish’s flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try a homemade ranch seasoning mix with herbs and garlic powder.
Au Jus Gravy Mix: This adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have it, a beef broth concentrate or homemade beef stock can work as a substitute.
Butter: While the recipe calls for unsalted butter, I sometimes use olive oil for a lighter touch. It doesn’t have the same richness but still works well.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These peppers give a tangy flavor. If you prefer milder spice, try banana peppers or omit them altogether.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Ingredients?
To make the most of your ingredients, layering flavors is key! Here’s how:
- Start by evenly distributing your ranch dressing and au jus over the meatballs. This ensures every meatball gets coated.
- Adding butter on top helps it melt into the sauce, blending all flavors beautifully.
- Using some juice from the pepperoncini also enhances the taste without making it too spicy.
Don’t rush the cooking time! Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and develop, making every bite delicious. Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 5-6 pepperoncini peppers, with some juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish is super easy to prepare! You’ll need about 5 minutes to gather and layer all your ingredients. Then, just set your crockpot! Cook time is approximately 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high. So, total time is roughly 6 hours, give or take, depending on your cooking method. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs in the bottom of your crockpot. There’s no need to thaw them; they’ll cook just fine from frozen!
2. Add the Seasonings:
Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the meatballs. This will give them a fantastic flavor boost as they cook!
3. Top with Butter:
Place the stick of butter on top of the seasoned meatballs. As it melts, it will combine with the other flavors creating a rich sauce.
4. Incorporate the Peppeoncini:
Add 5-6 pepperoncini peppers on top of the mixture and pour a bit of their juice over everything. This adds a delicious tangy kick!
5. Cook It Up:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Your meatballs will gradually become tender and soak up all those wonderful flavors.
6. Stir and Serve:
Once cooked, gently stir everything to combine the melted butter and seasonings into a tasty sauce coating the meatballs. It’s so flavorful!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Serve your Mississippi meatballs hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. They’re great on their own or over creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash to soak up every drop of sauce.
Enjoy your rich, tangy Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs that are perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy family dinners! Happy cooking! 🍽️
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs! Just make sure to cook them for a bit less time—about 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high, so they don’t overcook.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want to add a kick, try using spicy pepperoncini peppers or adding a few slices of jalapeños. You could also mix in some red pepper flakes for extra heat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan on low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs After Cooking?
Yes! Once cooked and cooled, place the meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating!