Mississippi Meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic Mississippi pot roast, featuring a rich, tangy, and savory flavor that makes them irresistible. With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re making them as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, these Instant Pot Mississippi Meatballs will become your new favorite go-to recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Using an Instant Pot speeds up the cooking process significantly.
- Rich Flavor – A perfect balance of buttery, tangy, and savory flavors.
- Versatile – Serve as a meal with mashed potatoes or as an appetizer with toothpicks.
- Family Favorite – Loved by kids and adults alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best Mississippi Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp milk
For the Mississippi Sauce:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- ½ cup unsalted butter, sliced
- ½ cup beef broth
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp pepperoncini juice
How to Make Instant Pot Mississippi Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add in Worcestershire sauce and milk, then mix everything together until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Meatballs in the Instant Pot
- Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add a drizzle of oil.
- Once hot, add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per batch).
- Remove the meatballs and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Mississippi Sauce
- Pour beef broth into the Instant Pot to deglaze the bottom, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add ranch seasoning mix, au jus mix, butter slices, pepperoncini peppers, and pepperoncini juice.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Meatballs
- Place the browned meatballs into the Instant Pot, making sure they are submerged in the sauce.
- Secure the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and select Manual/Pressure Cook for 7 minutes.
- Once done, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then do a quick release.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the meatballs from the Instant Pot and drizzle them with the rich sauce.
- Serve hot as a main dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
- For appetizers, serve with toothpicks and extra pepperoncini on the side.
Tips for the Best Mississippi Meatballs
- Use Lean Ground Beef – This prevents excessive grease in the Instant Pot.
- Don’t Overmix – Overworking the meatball mixture can make them dense.
- Brown the Meatballs First – Sautéing locks in flavor and helps them hold together.
- Adjust the Heat – If you like spicier meatballs, add extra pepperoncini juice or crushed red pepper flakes.
What to Serve with Mississippi Meatballs
Looking for the perfect sides? Try pairing these tender meatballs with:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A classic combo that soaks up the sauce.
- Buttered Noodles – A simple, delicious side.
- Steamed Vegetables – Green beans, broccoli, or carrots complement the rich flavors.
- Rice – Fluffy white or brown rice balances the tangy sauce.
How to Store and Reheat Mississippi Meatballs
Storing Leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips:
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Simmer in a small saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Instant Pot: Use the “Sauté” mode to warm them up gently.
FAQs About Mississippi Meatballs
1. Can I use frozen meatballs instead of homemade?
Yes! If using frozen meatballs, skip the browning step and pressure cook for 10 minutes instead of 7.
2. Can I make this in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Brown the meatballs first, then cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Simply swap breadcrumbs for almond flour and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is low-carb.
Final Thoughts
These Instant Pot Mississippi Meatballs are a game-changer! With minimal prep and a powerhouse of flavor, they are perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or party appetizers. Try them today and let your taste buds dance with delight!