These Crock Pot Mississippi Meatballs are an effortless way to bring bold flavors to your table. Slow-cooked in a rich blend of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, butter, and tangy pepperoncini, these tender meatballs melt in your mouth with every bite. Whether served as an appetizer for gatherings or spooned over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner, they’re sure to be a crowd favorite. What makes this dish stand out is the irresistible combination of savory and tangy flavors that develop over hours of slow cooking. The buttery gravy coats each meatball, creating a rich, umami-packed dish that requires minimal prep but delivers maximum satisfaction. Perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or family get-togethers, these Mississippi Meatballs are the ultimate comfort food!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced
- 5-6 pepperoncini peppers
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini juice
Directions:
- Place frozen meatballs into the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the meatballs.
- Arrange the sliced butter on top of the meatballs.
- Add the whole pepperoncini peppers and pour the pepperoncini juice over everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once done, serve hot as an appetizer or over mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Crock Pot Mississippi Meatballs: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Crock Pot Mississippi Meatballss are a delicious twist on the famous Mississippi Pot Roast, a dish that originated in the Southern United States and quickly gained popularity due to its bold flavors and simplicity. This variation, made with tender meatballs slow-cooked in a rich, buttery gravy with ranch seasoning, au jus mix, and tangy pepperoncini, takes the same mouthwatering flavors and transforms them into a versatile and satisfying dish. This recipe is perfect for busy home cooks, party hosts, and meal preppers, as it requires minimal effort but delivers restaurant-quality results. Whether you serve these meatballs as an appetizer, a main dish over mashed potatoes or pasta, or even in a sub sandwich, they’re sure to impress.
What Makes Mississippi Meatballs So Special?
- Easy, Hands-Off Cooking
With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, this dish comes together effortlessly. Simply throw everything into the crock pot, set the timer, and let the magic happen. This recipe is perfect for those who want a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. - Rich, Savory Flavor with a Tangy Kick
The combination of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers creates a deep, umami-rich flavor. The butter adds a luxurious, velvety texture to the sauce, while the pepperoncini provides a slight tanginess that cuts through the richness, balancing the dish beautifully. - Versatility – Perfect for Any Occasion
Mississippi Meatballs can be served in many different ways, making them an excellent recipe to have in your meal rotation:- As an appetizer – Perfect for game days, parties, or potlucks. Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.
- Over mashed potatoes or rice – The rich, buttery sauce coats the starch beautifully, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Inside a sandwich – Place the meatballs on a toasted hoagie roll, top with provolone or mozzarella cheese, and broil for a delicious sub.
- With pasta – Toss with egg noodles or spaghetti for a unique take on spaghetti and meatballs.
- Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
These meatballs taste even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months for an easy meal whenever you need it. - Kid-Friendly and Family-Approved
The creamy, flavorful sauce and juicy meatballs make this a hit with both kids and adults. The mild heat from the pepperoncini is subtle, so even picky eaters can enjoy this dish.
A Brief History of Mississippi Pot Roast and Its Evolution
The original Mississippi Pot Roast was created by Robin Chapman, a home cook from Ripley, Mississippi, in the 1990s. She modified a recipe given to her by a family friend, making it less spicy so her kids could enjoy it. Little did she know, her simple slow-cooked roast with ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers would become an internet sensation. Over time, people experimented with these flavors in different ways, leading to variations like Mississippi Chicken, Mississippi Pork, and now, Mississippi Meatballs. This recipe takes all the classic flavors of the pot roast and makes them more accessible by using meatballs instead of a whole cut of beef, making it perfect for busy cooks who want a quick and easy meal.
Health Benefits & Nutritional Insights
While this dish is indulgent, there are ways to customize it for a healthier version:
- Lower Sodium Option – Use a low-sodium ranch mix and au jus mix to reduce salt content.
- Lean Meatballs – Opt for turkey or chicken meatballs for a lighter version with less saturated fat.
- More Veggies – Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for extra nutrients and fiber.
- Butter Substitutes – Reduce the butter slightly or swap it for a heart-healthy alternative like olive oil.
Despite being a comfort food, this dish provides protein, essential fats, and minerals from the beef, while the pepperoncini adds a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants.
Tips for Making the Best Mississippi Meatballs
- Use High-Quality Meatballs – If using frozen meatballs, go for 100% beef or homemade meatballs for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Butter – It may seem like a lot, but the butter creates the rich sauce that makes this dish special.
- Adjust the Heat Level – If you love spice, add extra pepperoncini juice or a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Stir Occasionally – While not required, stirring once or twice during cooking helps distribute flavors evenly.
- Make it Cheesy – Top the meatballs with shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone) during the last 10 minutes for an extra indulgent touch.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Every Season
- Winter – A warm, hearty meal for cold days. Serve with mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food.
- Spring – Lighten it up by serving over a fresh salad or roasted veggies.
- Summer – Ideal for parties and BBQs as an appetizer or sandwich filling.
- Fall – Cozy up with a plate of Mississippi Meatballs and a side of buttered cornbread.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Q: Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
A: Yes! You can use homemade meatballs, but it’s best to sear them first to prevent them from falling apart in the slow cooker.
Q: What can I substitute for pepperoncini?
A: Banana peppers work well as a mild alternative, while jalapeños can be used for extra heat.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop?
A: Absolutely! Simmer everything in a covered skillet on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Q: What side dishes pair well with Mississippi Meatballs?
A: Try serving them with:
- Mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles
- Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread or cornbread
Conclusion
Crock Pot Mississippi Meatballs are more than just a meal—they’re an experience. The ease of preparation, the richness of flavors, and the comforting nature of this dish make it a staple in any home kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy meal, these slow-cooked meatballs hit all the right notes. So, the next time you need a no-fuss, satisfying, and downright delicious dish, give these Mississippi Meatballs a try. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, your slow cooker will do all the work, and you’ll end up with a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
