Description
Tender, savory beef meatballs slow-cooked in a buttery, tangy gravy brightened by pepperoncini peppers. This easy make-ahead dish delivers bold Southern flavors without fuss and is perfect over mashed potatoes, rice, or toasted rolls.
Ingredients
1½ pounds ground beef
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 packet (about 1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
1 packet (about 1 ounce) au jus gravy mix
½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pats
1 jar (about 6 ounces) pepperoncini peppers, drained, reserve ¼ cup brine
½ cup beef broth or water
Instructions
In a large bowl combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined and shape into 1¼-inch meatballs.
Place the meatballs in a single layer in the bottom of the crock pot. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus mix evenly over the top. Nestle the pats of butter among the meatballs. Pour the pepperoncini peppers, their reserved brine, and the beef broth around the sides.
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and sauce is bubbling. If a thicker gravy is desired, stir together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water into a slurry, pour into the crock pot, stir gently, and cook on high for an additional 15 minutes.
Serve the meatballs and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or slider buns. Spoon extra sauce over everything for maximum flavor.
Notes
For a milder version omit the pepperoncini brine or use mild banana peppers. To prep ahead, shape meatballs and store them in the refrigerator up to one day before cooking. Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat gently on the stovetop. This recipe freezes well—transfer cooled meatballs and sauce to freezer-safe containers and freeze up to three months. Add chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions as a garnish just before serving.