These Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are a hit at any gathering! Juicy meatballs are slow-cooked in a tasty mix of ranch dressing and pepperoncini peppers for extra zing.
I love how easy this recipe is—just throw everything in the pot and let it do its magic. Perfect for busy days or when friends come over! Plus, they disappear quickly, so be ready! 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: You can use beef, turkey, or even vegetarian meatballs based on your preference. Homemade meatballs will work too, just cook them for a bit longer.
Ranch Dressing Mix: If you prefer a homemade version, simply mix together dried buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley. It’s a great way to adjust flavors!
Au Jus Gravy Mix: Swap this for dry beef broth mix if you don’t have au jus. For a vegetarian option, try vegetable broth mix, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Butter: While unsalted butter is recommended to control the saltiness, you can use margarine or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
Pepperoncini Peppers: Banana peppers can be used instead for a milder flavor. You can also skip them if you want a less tangy taste!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking meatballs in a crockpot is super easy, but timing is key for that perfect texture!
- Start with frozen meatballs; they hold their shape better while cooking.
- Keep the lid on during cooking to maintain moisture. It’s tempting to check, but try to avoid lifting it!
- Check for doneness at the end of the cooking time. They should be heated thoroughly and tender. If they’re still a bit frozen or firm, give them another 30 minutes.
Stir gently after cooking to coat them in sauce without breaking them apart. This way, you get that tasty flavor in every bite!
How to Make Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen meatballs (beef or your choice)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4-5 pepperoncini peppers
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to cook it for about 4-6 hours on low heat or 2-3 hours on high heat in your crockpot. It’s a great dish for busy days—set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs in the bottom of your crockpot. No need to thaw them—they’ll cook perfectly straight from the freezer!
2. Add the Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and the au jus gravy mix evenly over the meatballs. This will give them that fantastic flavor we all love.
3. Add the Butter:
Now, take the whole stick of butter and place it right on top of the meatballs and seasoning mixes. This will melt and mix into the sauce as it cooks, making it rich and flavorful.
4. Add the Peppers:
Place 4-5 pepperoncini peppers on top. If you like a little extra heat, feel free to add some of the juice from the jar too!
5. Cooking Time:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the meatballs are heated through and the sauce has thickened nicely.
6. Stir and Serve:
Before serving, stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly in that delicious sauce. This dish can be served as an appetizer or over rice or mashed potatoes for a filling main dish.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for color. Enjoy the rich, tangy, buttery sauce with tender and flavorful meatballs!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh meatballs, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low or 1-2 hours on high, as they will cook faster than frozen ones.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce the night before. Just store them in the refrigerator and cook them the next day in the crockpot. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly if starting from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Can I Serve with Mississippi Meatballs?
These meatballs are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even in a sandwich! For a lighter option, serve them with a garden salad or roasted vegetables.
