Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs Recipe
When it comes to effortless and delicious comfort food, Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs hit the mark. Inspired by the iconic Mississippi Pot Roast, this recipe takes all those bold, savory flavors and brings them into tender, juicy meatballs, simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in any kitchen. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to create this irresistible dish.
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Ingredients: What You’ll Need to Make Mississippi Meatballs
To make these mouthwatering meatballs, gather the following ingredients:
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| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Frozen homestyle meatballs | 32 ounces | Choose good-quality meatballs for best texture and flavor. |
| Ranch dressing mix | 1-ounce packet | Brings a savory, herby profile that pairs well with the richness of the meat. |
| Au jus gravy mix | 1-ounce packet | Adds a beefy, deep flavor to the sauce. |
| Water | 1/2 cup | Essential for creating the right consistency and dissolving the dry mixes. |
| Whole pepperoncini peppers | 8 | Mildly tangy, adds just the right kick to balance the richness of the sauce. |
| Pepperoncini juice | 1/4 cup | Adds a tangy boost to the sauce, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. |
| Unsalted butter (sliced) | 1/2 cup | Adds creaminess and helps meld all the flavors together. |
| Fresh parsley (optional garnish) | To taste | Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional garnish) | To taste | For an extra creamy, cheesy touch. |
How to Make Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Start by placing the frozen meatballs directly into your slow cooker. There’s no need to thaw them first – cooking them from frozen makes this dish quick and easy to prepare.
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Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing mix, au jus gravy mix, water, and pepperoncini juice. Whisk until the mixes are fully dissolved. This will create the flavorful sauce base that will slowly cook and infuse the meatballs with a savory, tangy essence.
Step 3: Pour Sauce Over Meatballs
Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker. Stir gently to ensure that the meatballs are well-coated with the sauce, which will help the flavors penetrate each bite.
Step 4: Add Butter and Peppers
Place slices of butter on top of the meatballs, distributing them evenly. As the butter melts, it will create a rich, silky sauce. Finally, arrange the whole pepperoncini peppers on top. These peppers will infuse their unique tangy flavor throughout the dish, adding depth and complexity without being overly spicy.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 3-4 hours. The low and slow cooking process ensures that the meatballs become tender and that the sauce flavors meld perfectly.
Stir the meatballs gently once or twice during cooking to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the meatballs are cooked through and tender, it’s time to serve! Plate the meatballs with a generous helping of sauce, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella if desired. These meatballs can be served as an appetizer, main course, or over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
