Mississippi Meatballs

What Are Mississippi Meatballs?

If you’ve ever had Mississippi Pot Roast, you’ll understand why Mississippi Meatballs have gained cult-favorite status. These aren’t your ordinary meatballs — they’re bold, tangy, savory, and buttery all at once. Originally inspired by the famous slow-cooked beef dish from Mississippi, these meatballs take that same unforgettable flavor and wrap it into juicy bite-sized portions.​

Origins of the Recipe

Mississippi Pot Roast was born from a home cook’s innovation and quickly became a staple in Southern kitchens. When food bloggers started adapting the recipe with ground beef, the meatball version came to life. It retains the original’s flavor with a fun, family-friendly twist

The Mississippi Pot Roast Influence

The signature combo — ranch dressing mix, au jus gravy, butter, and pepperoncini — gives these meatballs their signature taste. It’s bold, tangy, rich, and completely addictive.​

Why They’re So Popular

Simple ingredients, quick prep, and hands-off cooking (especially in the crockpot!) make Mississippi Meatballs a go-to meal. Plus, the flavor payoff is massive.​

Key Ingredients That Make the Magic

Before you start, consider using lean ground meat and baking instead of pan-frying. The American Heart Association recommends these small changes to reduce saturated fat and promote a heart-healthy diet.

Ground Meat Options

Feel free to use ground beef, turkey . For the juiciest result, choose at least 80/20 ground beef.​

Ranch and Au Jus Packets

The ranch seasoning brings a creamy, tangy kick with herby notes, while the au jus mix adds deep, savory richness. Don’t skip these!​

Pepperoncini Peppers

Mildly spicy, tangy, and bright, they perfectly balance the butter and beef’s richness.​

Butter — The Secret Ingredient

Butter adds richness and helps create a luscious sauce that coats every meatball.​

How to Make Mississippi Meatballs

Mississippi Meatballs in the Oven

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   
2. Combine :
   1.5 pounds of ground beef with 1 egg, ½ cup of breadcrumbs, ranch seasoning, and au jus mix in a mixing bowl.
   
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs and arrange them in a baking dish.
   
4. Top with sliced butter and 6–8 pepperoncini peppers.
   
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes until cooked through.​
   

Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs

1. Mix and roll meatballs as above.
   
2. Place into the slow cooker.
   
3. Add butter and pepperoncinis on top.
   
4. If you’re using a slow cooker, set it to low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours..​
   

if you prefer using frozen meatballs for convenience, check out our guide on how to cook frozen meatballs in crockpot. it offers step-by-step instructions to ensure your meatballs are perfectly cooked and flavorful

Mississippi Meatballs in the Air Fryer

mississippi meatballs with homemade meatballs cook up beautifully in the air fryer, and if you’re starting with frozen meatballs, check our detailed guide on how to air fry frozen meatballs

Tips for the Juiciest Meatballs

• Don’t overmix your meat.
  
• Use a cookie scoop for even sizing.
  
• Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking.​
  

Best Ways to Serve Mississippi Meatballs

Mississippi meatballs and mashed potatoes

Creamy potatoes + tangy meatballs = a match made in heaven.​

Over Rice or Pasta

They make the perfect topper for buttery noodles or fluffy jasmine rice.​

This comforting meatball and rice dish offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients:

Rich in Iron and B Vitamins: Meatballs made from beef or turkey contain iron and B vitamins that help maintain energy levels and support the nervous system.

Protein-Rich: The meatballs provide a good source of high-quality protein, which supports muscle repair and overall body function. Opting for lean ground meat (such as turkey or chicken) can reduce saturated fat.

Carbohydrates for Energy: White rice supplies quick-digesting carbohydrates for energy. For added fiber and nutrients, you can substitute it with brown rice or quinoa.

Healthy Fats: If the meatballs are made with a mix of lean meat and healthy oils (like olive oil), they can offer beneficial fats that support heart health.

Low in Sugar: The brown sauce adds flavor without excessive sugar, especially if made from scratch using low-sodium soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of natural sweetener.

Party Appetizer with Toothpicks

Serve with extra pepperoncinis for a tangy kick. Great for game day!​

Inside Sub Rolls

Hello, meatball sandwiches with a zing! Add melty cheese for the win

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Refrigerating and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.​

Freezing Mississippi Meatballs

For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag.

How to Use Leftovers Creatively

Chop them up for taco filling, sliders, or meatball pizza topping.​

Healthy and Dietary Variations

Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Options

Skip breadcrumbs and add a mix of almond flour and parmesan.​

Gluten-Free Meatballs

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit altogether. Check that seasoning packets are GF.​

Dairy-Free Modifications

Sub vegan butter and check the labels on the ranch mix.​

Why You’ll Love Mississippi Meatballs

Flavor Profile Breakdown

Savory, tangy, buttery, herbaceous — it’s everything you want in comfort food.​

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleaser

Even picky eaters love these! Bonus: they’re great for potlucks and parties.​

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Taste

5–6 ingredients, endless joy. It’s hard to beat that combo

FAQS:

Mississippi Meatballs aren’t just any meatballs—they’re a cozy, flavor-packed Southern favorite that’s sure to win you over. Whether you bake them, slow cook them, or pop them in the air fryer, they’re super easy to make and always a hit.

Try them once, and you’ll want to add them to your weekly dinner rotation. They’re that good—comforting, delicious, and perfect for sharing with the people you love!