Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs

Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you need a comforting, crowd pleasing dinner with almost no effort. This slow cooker favorite combines tender frozen meatballs with ranch seasoning, savory au jus mix, rich butter, and tangy pepperoncini peppers for a bold Southern inspired flavor. With only 6 simple ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your crockpot does all the work. Whether you are feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, this hearty dish delivers big taste with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Why You Will Love This Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs Recipe

There are countless reasons this recipe has become a staple in so many kitchens.

First, it is incredibly easy. With just a handful of pantry staples and frozen meatballs, you can create a meal that tastes like it simmered all day with careful attention.

Second, the flavor is unforgettable. The ranch seasoning adds herby richness, the au jus mix brings savory depth, the butter creates a silky sauce, and the pepperoncini peppers offer a subtle tangy kick that balances everything beautifully.

Third, it is versatile. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or even on sandwich rolls for a delicious meatball sub style dinner.

Finally, it is perfect for meal prep. The leftovers taste just as good the next day, making this a smart and satisfying option for busy households.

Ingredients

To make Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs, you will need:

• 2 pounds frozen precooked meatballs

• 1 package ranch dressing mix or 3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning

• 1 package au jus mix or brown gravy mix

• 1 half cup beef broth

• 1 half cup pepperoncini peppers without the juices

• 6 tablespoons butter sliced

• Rice or mashed potatoes for serving optional

These ingredients work together to create a rich, savory sauce that coats every meatball with bold Southern flavor.

Step by Step How to Make Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs

Making this recipe could not be easier. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the slow cooker
Start by adding the frozen precooked meatballs directly into a 6 quart slow cooker. There is no need to thaw them first, which saves time and keeps prep effortless.

Step 2: Add the seasonings
Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix evenly over the meatballs. Then sprinkle the au jus mix or brown gravy mix on top. This layering ensures every meatball absorbs maximum flavor as it cooks.

Step 3: Add liquid and toppings
Pour the beef broth over the seasoned meatballs. This helps create the rich sauce. Next, scatter the pepperoncini peppers over the top. Finish by placing sliced butter evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Cook low and slow
Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or on HIGH for 2 and a half to 3 hours. The meatballs will become tender and infused with savory, buttery flavor.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once cooked, gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Helpful Tips

Use a 6 quart slow cooker for best results. This size allows the meatballs to cook evenly without overcrowding.

Do not add the pepperoncini juice unless you prefer a much tangier flavor. The peppers alone provide a balanced taste without overpowering the dish.

For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking on HIGH to allow some liquid to evaporate.

If serving at a party, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting after cooking to keep the meatballs at the perfect temperature for guests.

Stir gently before serving to evenly distribute the buttery sauce.

Substitutions And Variations

This recipe is flexible and easy to customize.

Chicken or turkey meatballs
You can substitute frozen chicken or turkey meatballs for a lighter option. The cooking time remains the same, and the flavor still pairs beautifully with the ranch and pepperoncini.

Homemade meatballs
If you have a favorite homemade meatball recipe, cook them fully before adding to the slow cooker. Reduce the cooking time by 1 hour on LOW or 30 minutes on HIGH since they are already hot and cooked through.

Spicy version
Add a few extra pepperoncini peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat.

Creamy variation
Stir in 2 to 4 ounces of cream cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.

Low sodium option
Use low sodium beef broth and gravy mix to reduce overall salt content.

Storage Instructions

Allow the meatballs to cool slightly before transferring them to an airtight container.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot and steamy.

For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce in freezer safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information

Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving based on 6 servings:

• Calories 516 kcal

• Carbohydrates 3 g

• Protein 26 g

• Fat 43 g

• Saturated Fat 19 g

• Polyunsaturated Fat 3 g

• Monounsaturated Fat 17 g

• Trans Fat 0.5 g

• Cholesterol 139 mg

• Sodium 600 mg

• Potassium 477 mg

• Fiber 0.4 g

• Sugar 0.2 g

• Vitamin A 398 IU

• Vitamin C 10 mg

• Calcium 30 mg

• Iron 1 mg

These values may vary depending on the specific brands of meatballs and seasoning mixes used.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving.

Spoon them generously over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food dinner.

Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up the rich buttery sauce.

Toss with egg noodles for a hearty, family friendly meal.

Use them as a filling for slider buns or hoagie rolls for a delicious meatball sandwich.

Pair with steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp side salad to balance the richness of the dish.

For entertaining, serve them straight from the slow cooker with toothpicks for an easy appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs

Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh homemade meatballs, but they should be fully cooked before adding them to the slow cooker. Because they are already hot, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent overcooking.

Do I need to thaw the frozen meatballs first?
No, there is no need to thaw them. Adding them frozen helps maintain their texture and makes prep even faster.

Are Mississippi Meatballs spicy?
They are mildly tangy rather than spicy. The pepperoncini peppers add a subtle kick without intense heat. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer peppers.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dish reheats beautifully and can even taste better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

What can I serve with these meatballs?
They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or crusty bread. Vegetables like green beans or roasted carrots also complement the rich sauce nicely.

Final Thoughts

Thank you so much for spending time in the kitchen with this Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs recipe. It is one of those meals I turn to again and again because it is incredibly easy, wonderfully flavorful, and always a hit with family and friends. I love how just a few simple ingredients transform into a rich, comforting dish that feels special without requiring hours of work. I truly hope this recipe becomes a go to favorite in your home as well. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of this amazing food loving community.

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