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These Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs bring the famous flavors of the classic Mississippi Pot Roast into bite sized form that is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Using just a handful of ingredients and your slow cooker, it is a hands off dish that emerges rich, buttery, and tangy with a hint of spice from the pepperoncini. It is a dependable recipe for busy days when you want satisfying comfort food without much fuss.
I first made these during a chaotic weeknight and now they are a go to whenever I want something impressive yet effortless. The buttery tangy sauce reminds me of cozy Sunday dinners with my family.
Ingredients
- Frozen meatballs: about 26 ounces or roughly 55 to 60 meatballs provide a convenient protein base and freeze well so you can keep some on hand
- Mild pepperoncini peppers: in a 16ounce jar bring mild heat and acidity choose mild or medium depending on your spice preference and look for ones with firm peppers and a bright brine
- Ranch seasoning packet: adds herby, savory depth and complements the pepperoncini tang opt for classic ranch for that familiar flavor
- Brown gravy mix: intensifies the sauce with rich, savory notes a high quality mix ensures a smooth, flavorful gravy
- Butter: a half cup or one stick sliced thin melts into the sauce giving it luscious richness and helps bind all the flavors together
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- (Start by spraying the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray so the sauce and meatballs do not stick during cooking.)
- Combine the Main Ingredients:
- (Pour in the frozen meatballs and the entire jar of pepperoncini peppers with their juice into the crockpot. Add the ranch seasoning mix and the brown gravy mix packets. Stir carefully to mix all the ingredients together well but gently since the meatballs are frozen and can break apart.)
- Add Butter and Cook:
- (Lay the thinly sliced butter evenly over the top of the mixture. Cover the crockpot with the lid. Cook on HIGH for three to four hours or on LOW for six to seven hours until meatballs are tender and sauce is bubbling.)
- Serving Suggestions:
- (The sauce will be rich and full of flavor so serve these meatballs over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete and comforting meal.)
Personally, I love the vibrant kick the pepperoncini peppers add to this dish they bring a unique tang that cuts through the butter and gravy richness. This recipe has been part of many family game nights where everyone reaches for seconds and enjoys the casual, comforting atmosphere.
Storage Tips
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to four days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through without overcooking the meatballs. This keeps them tender and the sauce flavorful.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find ranch seasoning, Italian dressing mix or a combination of dried herbs with a bit of garlic powder can work. For the gravy mix, a homemade gravy from beef stock and cornstarch can replace the packet. Banana peppers can substitute pepperoncini for a milder taste. Butter can be swapped with margarine but will slightly change the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce for a classic presentation. For a lighter option, try it over steamed green beans or roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with buttered egg noodles or fluffy white rice. Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
These Mississippi meatballs are an easy comforting crowd pleaser perfect for busy weeknights. Pair with mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the buttery tangy sauce.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh meatballs can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly. Ensure they are fully cooked through the slow-cooking process.
- → What can I substitute for pepperoncini peppers?
Banana peppers make a great mild alternative. For less texture, process the peppers and juice to blend smoothly.
- → How do I thicken the gravy if it's too thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water and stir into the crockpot. Cook on HIGH for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- → What sides pair well with the meatballs?
Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- → Can this dish be made in advance?
Yes, prepare ahead and reheat gently. The flavors deepen after resting, making it ideal for batch cooking.