Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs – Easy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Food

Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are a deliciously simple, hands-off meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. Tender, juicy meatballs simmer in a flavorful blend of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, butter, and tangy pepperoncini peppers, creating a rich and savory sauce that’s irresistible. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare—just toss the ingredients in a crockpot and let it do all the work. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, and you’ve got a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 (26-ounce) bag frozen meatballs
• 1 packet au jus gravy mix
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 (16-ounce) jar sliced pepperoncini peppers (with juice)
• ½ cup water
• ½ cup butter, diced

Optional for serving: cooked rice, egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the Crockpot

Spray the inside of your crockpot with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

2. Add the Meatballs

Place the frozen meatballs directly into the crockpot. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand, which makes this recipe even easier.

3. Add the Seasonings and Liquid

Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning over the meatballs. Pour the pepperoncini peppers (including their juice) on top. Add ½ cup of water and gently stir to combine everything evenly.

4. Add the Butter

Distribute the diced butter evenly over the meatballs. As it melts, the butter combines with the gravy and seasonings to create a rich, silky sauce.

5. Cook

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The meatballs should be fully heated through and tender, and the sauce thickened slightly. Stir occasionally if desired.

6. Serve

Once cooked, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them fully in the sauce. Serve immediately over rice, egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs

• Use frozen meatballs: No need to thaw—they cook perfectly in the crockpot.
• Adjust the pepperoncini: If you prefer less heat, drain some of the juice before adding the peppers.
• Make ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Refrigerate cooked meatballs and sauce separately, then reheat when needed.
• Extra flavor: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder to the sauce for an added depth of flavor.
• Serving ideas: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple side salad adds freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in the oven instead of a crockpot?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine all ingredients in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 45-60 minutes until meatballs are heated through.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and meatballs in advance, store in the refrigerator, and reheat in a crockpot or on the stovetop.

Can I use fresh meatballs?
Yes, fresh cooked meatballs can be used. Reduce cooking time slightly since they are already cooked through.

How spicy are these meatballs?
The heat comes from the pepperoncini peppers. You can adjust the spice by draining some of the juice or removing a few peppers.

Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes! This recipe scales well for larger gatherings. Just make sure your crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra meatballs and sauce.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are a delicious, easy-to-make comfort dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The combination of juicy meatballs, buttery ranch and au jus sauce, and tangy pepperoncini peppers creates a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.