Oh, boy! Do I have a treat for you today! I’m so excited to share my absolute favorite crockpot recipe: Mississippi Meatballs. These little flavor bombs became a staple in my home because not only are they delicious, but they also remind me of cozy family dinners and lazy Sundays. Just the mere thought of the house filled with that mouthwatering aroma is enough to make me smile.
The secret to these meatballs lies in the magical mix of ranch seasoning and brown gravy. Trust me, you won’t believe how simple it is to whip up a feast that feels like a big hug. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just looking to treat your family to something special, these meatballs never disappoint, and they always disappear in a hurry!
What’s in Mississippi Meatballs?
Let’s break down our ingredient lineup, shall we?
Ground beef: This is the star of our meatballs! You can totally use a mix of beef and pork if you want a richer flavor. Use a good quality meat for the juiciest bites.
Breadcrumbs: These are key for binding our meatballs and giving them that perfect texture. I usually go for plain breadcrumbs, but seasoned ones can work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
Parmesan cheese: Adding some grated Parmesan cheese takes these meatballs to a whole new level of deliciousness. It adds a savory kick that I can’t get enough of!
Milk: A splash of milk adds moisture to our meatball mixture, keeping them tender and juicy.
Egg: The egg acts like a glue, holding everything together. We need the proteins to really shine here!
Garlic powder & onion powder: These seasonings give our meatballs the flavor foundation they need. I could just inhale these two on their own, seriously!
Salt and pepper: Simple but oh-so-essential. Remember, seasoning is key!
Ranch seasoning mix: This is where the magic happens! It adds a delightful zing that elevates the whole dish.
Brown gravy mix: This gives that delicious, comforting sauce that makes you want to cuddle up with a big plate of goodness.
Beef broth (or water): Just enough liquid to keep our meatballs moist during the long cooking time.
Cooked mashed potatoes: I mean, what’s better than meatballs sitting atop creamy mashed potatoes? Nothing, I tell ya!
Steamed green beans: Not just a pretty side! They add a pop of color and a little crunch to round out the meal.
Is Mississippi Meatballs Good for You?
Well, that depends on how you view comfort food! These meatballs do pack a fair amount of protein from the ground beef, which is essential for muscle building and repair. The addition of green beans gives you some fiber, vitamins, and minerals, helping to balance out the meal. However, do keep in mind that they can be a bit rich, especially with the gravy and cheese, so enjoying them in moderation is a good idea if you’re watching your calorie intake.
One of my favorite tricks is to swap out half of the beef for some finely chopped mushrooms. This way, you’re adding a few extra veggies and keeping the flavors deliciously earthy—win-win!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
– 1 packet brown gravy mix
– 1 cup beef broth (or water)
– Cooked mashed potatoes (for serving)
– Steamed green beans (for serving)
This recipe serves about 4-6 hungry folks, and trust me, they will be hungry for more!
How to Make Mississippi Meatballs?
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, milk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix only until just combined because we don’t want them tough—nobody likes a dry meatball!
2. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter, and set them aside. Get ready for your hands to get a little messy—it’s all part of the fun, right?
3. In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning and brown gravy mix. The aroma will have you drooling already!
4. In the crockpot, place the meatballs in a single layer. They need their space to bubble up and get nice and flavorful.
5. Pour the beef broth over the meatballs, and then sprinkle that ranch and gravy mix over the top like you’re a seasoning fairy.
6. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through. You can go tackle a binge-watch session or relax while they work their magic.
7. Serve those succulent meatballs over a bed of mashed potatoes, spooning the luscious gravy from the crockpot over the top.
8. Add some steamed green beans on the side, because hey, we all need some veggies now and then! Dig in and don’t forget to savor every bite.
The Meatball Magic
Feeling inspired? Here are some extra tips and fun variations!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some finely chopped bell pepper or carrot into the meatball mixture for some extra veggies.
– Feeling spicy? Consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the mix!
– For a twist, you could even serve these meatballs in a hoagie roll with some melted cheese on top—Meatball Subs, anyone?
I can’t wait for you to try these Mississippi Meatballs in the Crockpot! They are bound to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen, just like they have in mine. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations—happy cooking!
