Ah, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food – **Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs**! This dish came into my life on a busy weeknight when I needed something hearty, delicious, and easy to whip up. I had a freezer full of meatballs, some seasonings I could throw together, and a busy schedule that meant I needed a hands-off solution. Fast forward to dinner time, and I was met with a warm, aromatic, utterly delicious bowl of joy!
There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the flavors in this dish. The tang from the pepperoncini combined with the savory punch of ranch seasoning and au jus creates a masterpiece that makes even a simple weeknight feel special. Plus, who doesn’t love a recipe that you can set and forget? Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious meatballs that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
What’s in Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs?
Frozen Meatballs: Whether you choose beef or turkey, these meatballs are the hero of the dish. I usually grab a bag of frozen ones from the grocery store for convenience. Just make sure they are fully cooked.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This little packet packs in all the flavors! If I have any homemade seasoning blends lying around, I might use those, but the store-bought ranch mix is simple and works like a charm.
Au Jus Gravy Mix: This adds a luxe, savory depth to the sauce that takes it over the top. Trust me; you’ll want this flavor bomb in your life!
Beef Broth: I like to use low-sodium beef broth for this dish, as it balances the saltiness of the seasoning packets while still adding great flavor.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These tangy little gems add an unexpectedly lush flavor, elevating the dish to new heights. Plus, a little acidity complements the richness of the meatballs wonderfully!
Butter: You can’t go wrong with a little butter for adding richness to the sauce.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of color and freshness to the meal. Plus, it just looks so pretty!
Cooked Mashed Potatoes: This is where the magic happens! The meatballs and sauce over creamy mashed potatoes creates a comforting, indulgent dish you won’t want to miss!
Is Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs Good for You?
Oh, this is a fun one! While these meatballs may not be the healthiest option out there, they do offer some perks! The meatballs are a great source of protein, and if you make them with turkey, you’re cutting down on some fat while still enjoying that protein goodness.
You can also adjust the nutritional value by using leaner meatballs or balancing the dish with a side of vegetables. Just keep in mind that the ranch mix and gravy can be pretty high in sodium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider making your own ranch seasoning blend at home.
Now, I won’t lie—this isn’t a dish you’d want to eat every single day (unless you want to live in a meatball paradise!), but for those special nights when you crave something cozy, this is your dish.
Here’s What You’ll Need
– 1 pound frozen meatballs (beef or turkey)
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 ounce)
– 1 packet au jus gravy mix (1 ounce)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup pepperoncini peppers (with juice)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Cooked mashed potatoes (for serving)
This recipe serves about 4, which is perfect for a small family dinner or for leftovers throughout the week (if they last that long!).
How to Make Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs?
1. Start by tossing those frozen meatballs right into the crockpot—no need to thaw them!
2. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix evenly over those meatballs. It should smell amazing already!
3. Pour the beef broth over the meatballs, making sure they’re all adequately coated. We want the flavors to dance on all of them!
4. Throw in the pepperoncini peppers and their juice, distributing them nicely among the meatballs.
5. Slice up your butter into small pats and toss those on top—because, yes, more richness!
6. Cover that crockpot and let it do its thing. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, keeping in mind you want those meatballs heated through and cozy.
7. Once your kitchen fills with that intoxicating aroma, give everything a gentle stir to coat those meatballs in sauce before serving.
8. Serve them over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes, spooning that luscious sauce right over the top.
9. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley—because we eat with our eyes too!
Serving Suggestions & Extra Tips!
Let’s chat some serving ideas! These meatballs are fantastic as they are, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also serve them over a bed of polenta or even on a sub roll for a sloppy meatball sandwich.
Now, if you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence!), they are perfect for meal prep! Just toss them in the microwave or on the stovetop, and they’ll still taste fabulous.
And if you’re one of those people who likes a little kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
This recipe is such a delightful way to enjoy a warm, hearty meal without stressing in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it out! Please let me know how it turns out and feel free to share your twists on this classic. Happy cooking!
