Looking for a crowd-pleasing, unbelievably easy appetizer or weeknight dinner? Then you’ve come to the right place! This recipe will tell you how to make delicious Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs, a savory, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth dish that will vanish in the blink of an eye.
What is Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs?
Mississippi Meatballs. The name conjures images of Southern charm, lazy riverboats, and maybe even a twangy guitar solo. But why Mississippi? Did a Southern belle invent them? Did they originate in some tiny, unassuming Mississippi diner? The truth is, the real story is probably shrouded in mystery, maybe some culinary urban legend. Some say a woman named Robin Chapman invented the recipe. The story goes that she invented the recipe in the early 2000s. It’s a simple recipe that combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with the best of all worlds.
But, let’s be honest, does it really matter? Because with every bite, you’ll understand why it’s a hit! And remember the old saying: “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” But you apply that to everyone — it’s the recipe for getting those delicious meatballs into everyone’s stomach. So, ditch the takeout menus and get ready to impress! Grab your slow cooker and prepare to be amazed.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs:
These meatballs are unbelievably easy to make; simply throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. The savory, tangy flavor combination will tantalize your taste buds, providing a delightful mix of richness and zest. Making them at home is also a smart financial decision, as restaurant or packaged meals can quickly drive up cost.
And speaking of flavor, the pepperoncini peppers add a unique, slight kick that makes these meatballs truly addictive. Think of classic Swedish meatballs, but with a Southern-style twist. While both are delicious comfort food, Mississippi Meatballs bring a bolder, tangier flavor to the table. Ready to taste the magic for yourself? Then let’s get cooking!
Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs:
- Frozen Meatballs: 2 lbs (approx. 900g). Using frozen meatballs makes this recipe incredibly easy. Look for a beef/pork blend for the best flavor.
- Ranch Dressing Mix: 1 packet (1 oz / 28g). This adds a creamy, tangy flavor that is essential to the recipe.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix: 1 packet (1 oz / 28g). This contributes a savory, beefy flavor base.
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick / 113g). Adds richness and helps create a luscious, flavorful sauce. Unsalted butter is recommended.
- Pepperoncini Peppers: 5-7 peppers. These add a mild kick and a distinct tangy flavor. You can adjust the quantity to your preference.
- Pepperoncini Juice: 2 Tablespoons. Adding a little of the pepperoncini juice to the mix boosts the tangy flavour even more!
How to Make Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs:
These slow cooker Mississippi meatballs are incredibly easy to make a wonderfully rewarding experience! They’re incredibly delicious and require minimal hands-on time. The creamy, tangy sauce coats the tender meatballs perfectly. Preparation time is only about 5 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights or when you need to whip up something quick for a party.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, place the frozen meatballs.
Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and au jus gravy mix evenly over the meatballs.
Add Butter: Cut the butter into pats and scatter them over the meatballs.
Add Pepperoncini: Add the pepperoncini peppers and pepperoncini juices . Do not drain them, place them directly on top.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The meatballs are ready when they are heated through and the sauce has thickened.
Serve: Once cooked, give everything a good stir to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated in the sauce. Serve hot.
What to Serve Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs With:
Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are some great pairing suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mashed potatoes perfectly complement the rich sauce of the meatballs.
- Rice: Serve the meatballs over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal. White, brown, or wild rice all work well.
- Pasta: Toss the meatballs and sauce with your favorite pasta, such as egg noodles, penne, or spaghetti.
- Sandwiches: Use the meatballs to make delicious meatball subs. Toast hoagie rolls and top with the meatballs, sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Appetizer: Serve the meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking at parties or gatherings. A small bowl of sour cream to dip in is also a plus!
Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs:
Here are a few tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs turn out perfectly every time:
- Meatball Quality: While frozen meatballs are convenient, consider using homemade meatballs for an even better flavor. You can make a large batch ahead of time and freeze them, then add them directly to the slow cooker.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, add more pepperoncini peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Don’t Overcook: Overcooking can dry out the meatballs. Check the meatballs periodically to ensure they are tender and juicy
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin for your liking, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow it to reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Add Vegetables: For a more complete meal, add some chopped vegetables to the slow cooker, such as onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Butter Substitute: While butter adds richness, you can substitute with olive oil or a butter alternative for a slightly healthier option. Keep in mind this will change the flavor profile of the dish slightly
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Here’s how to properly store and reheat your Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs:
- Storing: Allow the meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: You can reheat the meatballs in several ways:
- Slow Cooker: Add the meatballs to the slow cooker and reheat on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through.
- Stovetop: Place the meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a portion of meatballs in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
- Make sure the meatballs are thoroughly reheated before serving. The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 165°F (74°C).
Final Thoughts:
These Slow Cooker Mississippi Meatballs are more than just a recipe; they’re a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something truly spectacular. Whether you’re hosting a party, need a quick weeknight dinner, or just want to enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe has you covered. The tangy, savory flavor, combined with the ease of preparation, makes it a surefire hit every time. So, go ahead and give it a try! You might just find your new favorite recipe. Enjoy!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in Pinterest.