Mississippi Lil Smokies
Mississippi Lil Smokies are a bold and zesty twist on classic cocktail sausages. Inspired by Mississippi-style roast flavors, these bite-sized smokies are slow-cooked in a savory blend of ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, butter, and pepperoncini peppers. Perfect for entertaining or potlucks, they’re easy, flavorful, and completely addictive.
Ingredients
- 1 14 oz package cocktail sausages (Lil Smokies)
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tablespoon au jus gravy mix
- ¼ cup unsalted butter sliced
- 5 –6 pepperoncini peppers whole or sliced
- 1 tablespoon pepperoncini juice optional, for extra tang
Instructions
- Layer the ingredients:
- Place the cocktail sausages in the bottom of a slow cooker.
- Add seasonings and butter:
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix evenly over the sausages. Top with sliced butter pieces.
- Add peppers:
- Place whole or sliced pepperoncini peppers on top. Pour in 1 tablespoon of the brine if you want extra tang and heat.
- Cook:
- Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 3–4 hours, stirring once halfway through to evenly coat the sausages in the sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve warm straight from the slow cooker or transfer to a serving dish. Keep on “warm” if serving over time at a party.
Notes
- You can double this recipe easily for larger gatherings.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the microwave or stovetop.
- For a spicier kick, add more pepperoncini or a dash of hot sauce.
- Serve with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go bites.