The Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies are a delightful twist on the classic appetizer, infusing the beloved ‘Mississippi’ flavors into bite-sized sausages. This recipe combines the rich and tangy tastes of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, butter, and pepperoncini peppers to create a mouthwatering dish that’s both simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. Ideal for gatherings, game days, or casual snacking, these slow-cooked sausages require minimal effort—just a quick assembly in the slow cooker and a few hours of cooking. The result is a tender, flavorful treat that will have guests reaching for more. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional Mississippi pot roast or new to these flavors, the Mississippi Lit’l Smokies offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy this savory profile.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 (14-ounce) packages Lit’l Smokies sausages
- ¼ cup pepperoncini juice
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 6-8 whole pepperoncini peppers
Directions:
- Place the Lit’l Smokies sausages into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Pour the pepperoncini juice over the sausages.
- Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning mix evenly over the sausages.
- Distribute the butter cubes on top of the seasonings.
- Place the whole pepperoncini peppers on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even flavor distribution.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 2-3 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes – 3 hours 5 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
The Story Behind Mississippi Lit’l Smokies
The Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies recipe is a delicious twist on the famous Mississippi Pot Roast, a slow-cooked dish that has taken the food world by storm. Originating from Southern kitchens, the Mississippi Pot Roast gained popularity for its rich, buttery texture and bold, savory flavors. By incorporating these same flavors into Lit’l Smokies, we get a mouthwatering appetizer that’s effortless to prepare yet absolutely addictive. This dish takes the same elements—ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, butter, and tangy pepperoncini peppers—and applies them to cocktail sausages, making them the perfect snack for parties, game nights, or even casual snacking. It’s a low-effort, high-reward dish that comes together in just minutes before the slow cooker does all the work.
Why This Recipe is the Best
Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor
- With just six simple ingredients, this recipe requires only five minutes of prep before you set it and forget it in the slow cooker. No chopping, dicing, or pre-cooking required.
Perfect for Any Occasion
- Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a football game, or attending a potluck, these bite-sized sausages are easy to serve and always a crowd-pleaser.
Unforgettable Flavor Combination
- The buttery, tangy, and savory taste profile makes these smokies stand out from regular cocktail sausages. The combination of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy, and pepperoncini peppers adds layers of complexity without requiring extra effort.
Set It and Forget It Convenience
- Since the recipe is made in a slow cooker, you can let it cook while you focus on other tasks. It’s a stress-free dish that can stay warm for hours, making it ideal for long gatherings.
Scalable Recipe
- Need to feed a large crowd? Just double or triple the recipe, and it will cook just as perfectly. Whether you’re making it for a small get-together or a big event, the slow cooker ensures consistent results every time.
A Deep Dive Into the Key Ingredients
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the rich and savory flavors Mississippi-style dishes are known for.
- Lit’l Smokies Sausages – These small, smoked sausages have a savory, slightly smoky taste, making them the perfect base for this dish. Their compact size makes them ideal for snacking, and they soak up flavors beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Pepperoncini Juice – The secret ingredient! This tangy, slightly spicy liquid enhances the overall flavor, adding a subtle zing that balances the richness of the butter and seasonings.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix – This adds depth and a rich umami flavor to the sausages. It helps create a savory sauce that coats each sausage, making them incredibly juicy and flavorful.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix – A signature element in Mississippi-style dishes, this seasoning mix adds a blend of herbs, garlic, and buttermilk flavor, creating a bold, slightly tangy taste.
- Unsalted Butter – A key ingredient that enhances the texture, butter melts into the sauce, giving the sausages a rich, silky coating.
- Whole Pepperoncini Peppers – These bring a mild heat and a slight tanginess that complements the buttery, herby flavors of the dish. They add a burst of flavor without overpowering the smokies.
Cooking Method & Tips for Best Results
Layer the Ingredients Properly
- Start by placing the Lit’l Smokies in the slow cooker before adding the seasonings and liquids. This ensures even cooking and full flavor absorption.
Stir Occasionally
- Stirring the sausages every 30-45 minutes helps distribute the butter and seasonings evenly.
Choose the Right Heat Setting
- Cooking on low heat for 2-3 hours is recommended to develop deep, rich flavors. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 1-1.5 hours, but the flavors will be slightly less developed.
Make It Spicier (If You Like Heat!)
- Want to turn up the heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Keep It Warm for Serving
- This dish stays deliciously warm for hours in the slow cooker, making it ideal for buffets and gatherings. Simply switch the slow cooker to the “warm” setting once it’s done cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This savory and buttery dish pairs perfectly with:
- Toothpicks or cocktail forks for easy serving at parties
- Toasted slider buns to create mini Mississippi-style sausage sandwiches
- A side of mustard, ranch dip, or BBQ sauce for added flavor options
Nutritional Benefits
While this dish leans toward the indulgent side, it does offer some benefits:
- Protein-Packed – Lit’l Smokies provide a good source of protein, keeping you feeling full.
- Low-Carb Option – If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this dish is naturally low in carbohydrates.
- Customizable Ingredients – You can swap in lower-fat sausages or reduce the butter amount to adjust for dietary preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Simply dump everything into the slow cooker and let it cook when you need it.
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Yes! While Lit’l Smokies are the classic choice, you can use chopped kielbasa, beef sausage, or chicken sausages for a different twist.
Q: How can I make this dish less salty?
A: You can use low-sodium versions of the au jus mix and ranch seasoning to reduce the salt content.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze Mississippi Lit’l Smokies?
A: Yes! Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a slow cooker or stovetop.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies are an easy, flavorful, and addictive dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create an irresistible appetizer that will keep guests coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual weekend snack, or preparing game-day treats, these savory, buttery, and slightly tangy sausages are always a hit. If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, now is the time to add it to your go-to appetizer list. You won’t regret it!
