If you are looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare yet irresistibly delicious, Mississippi Meatballs are your next kitchen adventure. These tender meatballs simmered in a rich, tangy gravy infused with peperoncini juice and ranch seasoning create a mouthwatering combination that comforts and excites your palate. Perfect for gatherings or a weeknight dinner, this recipe brings bold flavors together in a way that’s truly unforgettable.

Mississippi Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Mississippi Meatballs rely on a handful of straightforward ingredients, each one playing a crucial role in building layers of taste, texture, and that signature tangy kick. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to gather before you get cooking.

32 Ounce Bag Frozen Meatballs: The base protein, making preparation super simple without sacrificing heartiness.
2 Cups Beef Broth: Adds depth and a savory richness to the sauce for a full-bodied flavor.
1 Packet Ranch Seasoning: Infuses a creamy, herby taste that complements the meatballs beautifully.
2 Packets Brown Gravy Mix: Essential for thickening the sauce and delivering that luscious gravy texture.
2 Tablespoons Peperoncini Juice: Injects a zesty, slightly spicy tang that makes these meatballs stand out.
8-10 Peperoncini Peppers: Adds visual appeal and bursts of vinegary heat in every bite.
1/2 Cup Butter: Creates a silky finish for the sauce, balancing all the flavors perfectly.

How to Make Mississippi Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

Start by whisking together the beef broth, ranch seasoning, brown gravy packets, and 2-3 tablespoons of peperoncini juice in a mixing bowl. This blend forms the vibrant, flavorful gravy that envelops the meatballs. Whisking well ensures the gravy mix dissolves completely, giving the sauce a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot

Spray your crockpot with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, then place the frozen meatballs inside. Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the meatballs, making sure every bite will be drenched in that rich sauce. Next, scatter the peperoncini peppers on top — these are the secret stars adding a mild heat and vinegary punch. Lastly, add a stick (1/2 cup) of butter right on top for that irresistible creamy richness.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection

Set the crockpot to high and cook the meatballs for 3 1/2 to 4 hours. During this time, the flavors meld together beautifully while the sauce thickens to a luxurious texture. The slow cooking method makes the meatballs tender and juicy—just the way we want them!

Step 4: Stir and Serve

Give the meatballs a gentle stir before serving to evenly coat them in the luscious gravy. These Mississippi Meatballs are fantastic served over creamy mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or even piled into soft sandwich buns for an easy slider option.

How to Serve Mississippi Meatballs

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnish elevates the presentation and adds a subtle contrast in flavor. Chopped fresh parsley or green onions lend a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the richness of the gravy. For a touch of creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese pairs wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Mississippi Meatballs work best with sides that soak up their flavorful gravy. Classic creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting bed, while fluffy white rice provides a subtle canvas that lets the meatballs shine. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad can add freshness and balance to the meal, making it complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not take Mississippi Meatballs beyond the plate? Piling them into mini slider buns with a slice of pepper jack cheese turns them into hand-held party favorites. You can also serve them as appetizers on toothpicks with a side of extra gravy for dipping. Their bold flavor and juicy texture make them adaptable to many fun and festive presentations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Mississippi Meatballs, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days and actually taste even better as the flavors continue to deepen overnight.

Freezing

If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze Mississippi Meatballs with their sauce. Place cooled meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. Label and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the meatballs gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave them in a covered dish, checking every minute to avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of beef broth can help keep the gravy moist and luscious.

FAQs

Can I make Mississippi Meatballs without a crockpot?

Absolutely! You can prepare this recipe on the stovetop by simmering the meatballs and sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat for about 30-40 minutes until the sauce thickens and the meatballs are heated through.

Are homemade meatballs a good substitution for frozen ones?

Yes! Using homemade meatballs will add a personal touch and freshness, but be sure they’re cooked through before mixing with the sauce. The slow cooking method works beautifully regardless of the type of meatball you choose.

What type of peperoncini peppers should I use?

Use jarred peperoncini peppers typically found in the condiment aisle. They have the perfect balance of tang and mild heat that defines the flavor profile of Mississippi Meatballs without overpowering the dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The rest of the ingredients and method remain the same, offering a tasty meatless option.

How spicy are Mississippi Meatballs?

They carry a gentle tangy heat thanks to the peperoncini juice and peppers but are not overly spicy. The butter and gravy base mellow out the heat, making them enjoyable for most palates.

Final Thoughts

Mississippi Meatballs are one of those delightful recipes that feel like a warm hug on a plate — easy to make but bursting with so much flavor it becomes an instant favorite. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a game day snack, or a casual gathering, they never fail to impress. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll find reasons to make it again and again!

Mississippi Meatballs Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 8 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 3 hours 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Low Salt

Print Recipe

Description

Mississippi Meatballs are a comforting and flavorful slow cooker dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a tangy, buttery gravy with ranch seasoning and peperoncini peppers. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or main course, these meatballs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or on their own in sandwiches.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

32 Ounce Bag Frozen Meatballs

Gravy and Seasoning

2 Cups Beef Broth
1 Packet Ranch Seasoning
2 Packets Brown Gravy Mix
2–3 Tablespoons Peperoncini Juice

Additional Ingredients

8–10 Peperoncini Peppers
1/2 Cup Butter (1 stick)

Instructions

Prepare the Gravy Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, ranch seasoning, 2-3 tablespoons of peperoncini juice, and the brown gravy mixes until well combined and smooth.
Set up the Slow Cooker: Spray the crockpot insert with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Place the frozen meatballs into the crockpot and pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over them.
Add Peperoncini and Butter: Top the meatballs and gravy with 8-10 whole peperoncini peppers and place a stick of butter (1/2 cup) on top for richness and flavor.
Cook: Cover and cook on high heat for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or until the sauce has thickened and the meatballs are heated through.
Serve: Stir the meatballs gently to coat them in the sauce, then serve warm alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or inside sandwiches for a delicious meal.

Notes

For best flavor, use the juice from the peperoncini peppers as it adds tang and heat to the sauce.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken before serving.
These meatballs can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat gently before serving.
Adjust the number of peperoncini peppers to control the spiciness to your preference.
Use crockpot liners for easy cleanup if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Category: Main Course, Appetizer
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American, Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 4-5 meatballs with sauce)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 750 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 10 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0.3 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 18 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg

Keywords: Mississippi Meatballs recipe, slow cooker meatballs, ranch seasoning meatballs, peperoncini meatballs, party appetizer, easy meatball recipe