Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients like meatballs, ranch seasoning, and pepperoncinis, they cook perfectly in your slow cooker.
These meatballs are a hit at any gathering! I love whipping them up and letting them simmer all day—it makes the house smell amazing. Serve them on a bun or on their own for a yummy treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Meatballs: Frozen cooked meatballs save time and work great in this recipe. You can use beef or Italian style. If needed, switch to turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter option, or make your own from scratch if you have more time!
Ranch Seasoning: This brings a creamy, tangy flavor to the meatballs. If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you could mix a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and dill as a substitute.
Au Jus Gravy Mix: This adds depth and richness to the dish. If you’re looking for a lower sodium option, many brands offer reduced-sodium versions. You can also make a homemade gravy using beef broth if needed.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These give a nice bite and tanginess. If you can’t find them, banana peppers or pickled jalapeños can work too. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference!
What’s the Best Way to Get Juicy Meatballs in a Slow Cooker?
Getting the right texture for meatballs in a crockpot is critical. Begin with good-quality frozen meatballs, which retain moisture during cooking. Arrange them evenly in the crockpot to ensure even heating.
- Cover the crockpot properly to trap steam and prevent drying out.
- Cook on low to avoid overcooking, as meatballs can easily become tough. Stir gently to coat them in sauce without breaking them apart.
- Let them soak in the flavor for the whole cooking time, as they’ll absorb the seasoning for a tasty bite!
How to Make Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds frozen cooked meatballs (beef or Italian style)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers (with some juice)
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crockpot. Perfect for a busy day—just set it and forget it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Begin by placing the frozen meatballs in the bottom of your crockpot, spreading them out evenly. This helps them cook uniformly.
2. Add the Seasonings:
Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix over the top of the meatballs. These will create a delicious, savory flavor as they cook!
3. Add Butter:
Cut the unsalted butter into pieces and distribute them evenly over the meatballs and seasonings. The butter adds richness and makes the sauce creamy.
4. Pepperoncini Time:
Add the pepperoncini peppers to the crockpot, along with a few tablespoons of their juice. This adds a delightful tangy kick!
5. Cook the Meatballs:
Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be heated through, and the sauce should be bubbly when done.
6. Stir and Serve:
When cooking time is up, stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor!
7. Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top for a fresh finishing touch. It not only looks pretty but adds a bit of flavor too!
8. Enjoy:
Serve these warm as an appetizer or over mashed potatoes, rice, or in sandwich buns for a satisfying meal. Everyone will love them!
These Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are savory, buttery, and slightly tangy thanks to the ranch and pepperoncini peppers, making them perfect for an easy party appetizer or family dinner. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Fresh Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs! Just make sure to cook them longer in the crockpot. They typically need about 5-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to ensure they are cooked through.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, feel free to use a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley for a similar flavor. You can also substitute with Italian seasoning for a different twist!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers 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 if needed to keep them moist.
Can I Add More Spice to This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you like things spicy, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce along with the pepperoncini. Adjust according to your heat preference to find the perfect balance!
