There’s something about slow cooker meals that makes life so much easier. On busy days, I love being able to throw a few ingredients into the crockpot, set it, and come back hours later to a meal that’s tender, flavorful, and completely effortless. That’s exactly why Mississippi Meatballs have become one of my favorite recipes.
The first time I made these meatballs, I was looking for a hearty, no-fuss dinner that my family would love. I had heard of Mississippi Pot Roast, but I wanted something a little different. I thought, “Why not try the same flavors with meatballs?” Let me tell you—it was one of the best kitchen experiments I’ve ever done.
These meatballs are rich, buttery, and have just the right amount of tang and spice. The mix of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, butter, and pepperoncini peppers gives them a bold, savory flavor that’s completely addictive. Whether you serve them over mashed potatoes, rice, or as an appetizer, they’re always a hit.
Now, whenever I need a quick and easy dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish, these crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are at the top of my list.
| Servings | Total |
| 6 | 6hrs 10mins |
Where Did You Learn This Recipe?
I first learned about Mississippi-style cooking from the famous Mississippi Pot Roast recipe. It’s a slow-cooked beef roast made with ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers. It’s one of those recipes that’s super simple but packed with flavor.
After making the pot roast a few times, I started thinking about how I could use those same flavors in other dishes. That’s when I decided to try it with meatballs instead of a roast. The result? Juicy, tender, and insanely flavorful meatballs that cook to perfection in the crockpot.
I’ve made them for family dinners, game day snacks, and potlucks, and they always disappear fast. This recipe is now a staple in my house!
Why Mississippi Meatballs
There are so many reasons why I love making Mississippi Meatballs in the crockpot:
- Super Easy – Just dump everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work.
- Bold, Savory Flavor – The combination of ranch, au jus, and pepperoncini peppers gives these meatballs an unforgettable taste.
- Versatile – Serve them over mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or as an appetizer.
- Perfect for Parties – These meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
- Great for Meal Prep – They reheat beautifully and taste even better the next day.
If you love comfort food with a big flavor, these meatballs are a must-try!
What Are Mississippi Meatballs Made Of?
The ingredients for Mississippi Meatballs are simple but packed with flavor:
- Meatballs – You can use frozen or homemade meatballs.
- Ranch Seasoning – Adds a creamy, herby flavor.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix – Gives the meatballs a rich, savory depth.
- Butter – Makes everything extra rich and flavorful.
- Pepperoncini Peppers – Adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick.
Everything comes together in the slow cooker, creating a dish that’s savory, buttery, and irresistible.
What to Have with Mississippi Meatballs
Mississippi Meatballs are so versatile, and you can serve them in a variety of ways:
- Over Mashed Potatoes – The creamy potatoes soak up all the delicious sauce.
- With Rice – A simple and comforting option.
- Over Egg Noodles – Like a Mississippi-style stroganoff!
- On a Hoagie Roll – Makes an amazing meatball sandwich.
- As an Appetizer – Serve with toothpicks for parties.
No matter how you serve them, they’re always a hit!
Are Mississippi Meatballs Healthy?
These meatballs are rich and indulgent, but there are a few ways to make them a bit healthier:
- Use turkey or chicken meatballs instead of beef.
- Use half the butter to cut down on fat.
- Choose low-sodium broth or seasoning to reduce salt.
- Pair with a side of vegetables for a balanced meal.
Even with a few tweaks, these meatballs will still be deliciously satisfying!
Kitchen Equipment
To make these easy crockpot meatballs, you’ll need:
- Slow Cooker (Crockpot) – The key to tender, flavorful meatballs.
- Measuring Spoons – For seasoning.
- Mixing Bowl (if making homemade meatballs) – Optional but useful.
- Tongs or Spoon – For serving.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs (if using homemade):
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Crockpot Sauce:
- 1 bag (24 oz) frozen meatballs (or homemade)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers (whole or sliced)
- ¼ cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
Directions:
Step 1: Make the Meatballs (Skip if Using Frozen)
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on a plate.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side (optional but adds flavor).
Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
- Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix over the top.
- Add the sliced butter evenly over the meatballs.
- Place the pepperoncini peppers on top and pour in pepperoncini juice.
Step 3: Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Stir gently before serving to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- Garnish with extra pepperoncini slices if desired.
Tips
- For a milder flavor, use fewer pepperoncini peppers.
- To make the sauce creamier, stir in ¼ cup sour cream before serving.
- Browning homemade meatballs before adding to the crockpot enhances flavor.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day!
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Yes! Just brown them first for extra flavor.
Can I use chicken or turkey meatballs?
Absolutely! They work just as well.
What if I don’t have au jus mix?
You can substitute 1 tablespoon of beef bouillon powder + ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then quickly release.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Mississippi Meatballs are the perfect mix of savory, buttery, and slightly tangy flavors. Whether you serve them over mashed potatoes, noodles, or as a party appetizer, they’re always a hit.
Try this easy crockpot recipe, and you’ll see why it’s become one of my favorite go-to meals. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor—the perfect dish for busy days!
MORE RECIPES
Mississippi Meatballs Crockpot Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker (Crockpot)
- Measuring Spoons
- Mixing Bowl (if making homemade meatballs)
- Tongs or Spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bag (24 oz) frozen meatballs (or homemade)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers (whole or sliced)
- ¼ cup pepperoncini juice (from the jar)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on a plate.
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side (optional but adds flavor).
- Place the meatballs in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix over the top.
- Add the sliced butter evenly over the meatballs.
- Place the pepperoncini peppers on top and pour in pepperoncini juice.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2-3 hours.
- Stir gently before serving to coat the meatballs in the sauce.
- Serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- Garnish with extra pepperoncini slices if desired.