Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies

Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies are the ultimate party appetizer. These bite-sized sausages are slow-cooked to perfection, absorbing a tangy, buttery, and slightly spicy flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, holiday party, or casual get-together, this recipe will be a crowd favorite.

With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, you’ll have a dish that’s packed with bold flavors. The combination of ranch seasoning, au jus mix, and pepperoncini peppers creates a savory balance that’s sweet, smoky, and slightly spicy.

If you love easy slow cooker recipes, this is one you need to try.

What Are Mississippi Lit’l Smokies?

Lit’l Smokies are mini cocktail sausages made from a blend of beef, pork, or turkey. They’re pre-cooked, making them perfect for quick and easy recipes.

The Mississippi-style twist on this classic appetizer comes from its unique flavor profile. Inspired by Mississippi Pot Roast, this recipe swaps out the traditional BBQ sauce for a rich blend of:

• Ranch seasoning mix – adds a tangy, herby taste
• Au jus mix – deepens the umami flavor
• Butter – brings a rich, smooth texture
• Pepperoncini peppers – provide a mild, tangy kick

Unlike the typical BBQ Lit’l Smokies, this savory and buttery version offers a balance of saltiness, sweetness, and spice that’s truly irresistible.

Brief History of Lit’l Smokies

Cocktail sausages have been a party staple for decades. Lit’l Smokies, first popularized in the mid-20th century, were often served in:

• BBQ sauce & grape jelly
• Honey mustard glazes
• Sweet and sour sauces

The Mississippi-style twist is a more recent innovation. The original Mississippi Pot Roast was created in the 1990s, using ranch seasoning, au jus mix, and butter. By applying these same bold flavors to Lit’l Smokies, the recipe gets a Southern upgrade that enhances its richness and depth.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies, you’ll need:

• Crock pot (slow cooker) – the key to tender, juicy sausages
• Mixing bowl – for combining the seasoning mixture
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure perfect seasoning balance
• Tongs or a serving spoon – for easy serving

Why a Crock Pot Works Best

• Even heat distribution – allows flavors to develop slowly
• Hands-off cooking – perfect for parties and gatherings
• No risk of burning – sausages stay moist and tender

Prep Time, Cook Time, and Serving Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 3-4 hours (LOW) or 1.5-2 hours (HIGH)
• Total Time: 3-4 hours
• Servings: 6-8

Ingredients List 

Main Ingredients

• 1 package (14 oz) Lit’l Smokies (beef, pork, or turkey)
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 packet au jus mix
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup pepperoncini juice
• 4-6 whole pepperoncini peppers
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 tbsp honey – for extra sweetness
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper – for added heat
• ¼ cup BBQ sauce – for a smoky twist

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Melt the butter in a small bowl.
• Measure out the ranch seasoning, au jus mix, and brown sugar.
• Slice pepperoncini peppers (if you want extra flavor) or leave them whole.

Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients in the Crock Pot

• Add Lit’l Smokies to the slow cooker.
• Pour in melted butter.
• Sprinkle ranch seasoning, au jus mix, and brown sugar over the sausages.
• Add Worcestershire sauce and pepperoncini juice.
• Toss in whole pepperoncini peppers.

Step 3: Cook on Low or High

• LOW Setting: 3-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
• HIGH Setting: 1.5-2 hours for a quicker cook time.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from heat once the sausages are tender and coated in the rich, tangy sauce.
• Serve warm with toothpicks or on mini buns for sliders.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or shredded cheese if desired.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

Serving Ideas

• As an Appetizer: Serve in a dish with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
• Mini Sandwiches: Place inside Hawaiian rolls for bite-sized sliders.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the sausages and sauce over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add extra pepperoncini juice and red pepper flakes.
• Sweeter Version: Increase brown sugar and add a touch of honey.
• BBQ Twist: Stir in ¼ cup BBQ sauce for a smoky taste.

Best Side Dishes for Mississippi Lit’l Smokies

Pairing Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies with the right side dishes can take your meal or party platter to the next level. Whether you want something crispy, creamy, or refreshing, here are some delicious side options.

Crispy & Savory Sides

• Parmesan Zucchini Fries – Light, crispy, and cheesy, they add a great texture contrast.
• Crispy Baked Green Bean Fries – A healthier alternative to French fries with a crunchy bite.
• Air Fryer Tater Tots – Classic, bite-sized, and perfect for dipping.

Comfort Food Pairings

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes with a buttery, garlicky finish make an indulgent side.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread – A flavorful, crunchy option that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Mac and Cheese – A rich, cheesy companion to balance the smoky flavors.

Fresh & Light Sides

• Cilantro Lime Slaw – A refreshing, tangy slaw to cut through the richness.
• Cold Noodle Salad – Light, herby, and slightly acidic to balance the dish.
• Greek Cucumber Tomato Salad – Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes bring brightness.

Sweet Complements

• Honey Butter Skillet Corn – Sweet, buttery corn pairs beautifully with the savory smokies.
• Pineapple Coconut Mojito – A tropical drink to balance the heat and tanginess.
• Cherry Crumble – A slightly tart dessert that rounds out the meal.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Caloric Breakdown

Mississippi Lit’l Smokies are a high-protein, high-fat dish, making them great for low-carb diets. However, the butter and seasoning mixes can add extra sodium and calories.

A typical serving of Lit’l Smokies with sauce contains:

• Calories: Moderate, depending on portion size.
• Protein: A good source of protein from the sausages.
• Fat: Contains both healthy and saturated fats from butter.
• Carbs: Minimal if served alone, but increases with bread or sides.

Making a Healthier Version

• Use turkey or chicken Lit’l Smokies instead of pork or beef.
• Swap regular butter for a light or plant-based alternative.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium ranch seasoning and au jus mix.
• Cut back on sugar by omitting brown sugar or replacing it with a natural alternative.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Overcooking the Sausages

• Cooking Lit’l Smokies for too long can make them rubbery or tough. Stick to the recommended cook time and stir occasionally.

Not Stirring the Sauce Properly

• To ensure even coating, stir every hour while cooking. If the butter separates, give it a good mix before serving.

Using the Wrong Type of Sausages

• Some brands of cocktail sausages have a tougher texture. Look for quality beef or pork Lit’l Smokies for the best results.

Not Adjusting the Spice Level

• If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of pepperoncini juice and skip the extra spices.
• For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Forgetting to Taste and Adjust

• Taste the sauce before serving! You can add more brown sugar for sweetness, Worcestershire for depth, or extra pepperoncini juice for tang.

How to Store & Reheat Mississippi Lit’l Smokies

Properly storing and reheating your Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies ensures they stay just as flavorful as when they were freshly made.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months.
• Sauce Separation: The butter-based sauce may separate when stored. Stir well before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat

• Microwave: Quick and easy. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Slow Cooker: If reheating a large batch, place them back in the crock pot on LOW for 1 hour.

FAQs: Answering Common Questions

1. Can I make Mississippi Lit’l Smokies ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare them a day in advance, store in the fridge, and reheat in the crock pot before serving.

2. Can I use different types of sausages?

Absolutely! Beef, pork, turkey, or even plant-based Lit’l Smokies work well. Adjust seasoning to complement the type of sausage.

3. How can I make them less spicy?

Reduce or omit the pepperoncini juice and peppers. You can also add a touch of honey or extra butter to mellow the heat.

4. What’s the best way to serve them for a party?

Serve in the crock pot on the WARM setting with toothpicks or mini buns nearby for easy serving.

5. Can I cook them on the stovetop instead?

Yes, but the flavors won’t develop as deeply. Simmer in a saucepan over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Are Mississippi Lit’l Smokies gluten-free?

Check the ingredient labels! Many Lit’l Smokies contain fillers that include gluten, and some seasoning mixes have hidden wheat ingredients.

7. Can I make these keto-friendly?

Yes! Simply omit the brown sugar and ensure your ranch mix and sausages are keto-approved.

Conclusion

Mississippi Lit’l Smokies are the perfect appetizer, snack, or party dish. They require minimal prep, slow cook to perfection, and are bursting with bold flavors. Whether you’re making them for a game night, family gathering, or holiday party, they’re sure to be a hit!

By following the right storage, reheating, and serving techniques, you can enjoy them anytime with ease. Experiment with different flavors and spice levels to make this dish your own. Once you try this tangy, buttery, and savory recipe, it will become a staple at every event!

 

Auxtrazo

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