Mississippi Lil Smokies

Mississippi Lil Smokies are a bold, savory, and irresistibly snackable appetizer that brings all the zesty flavor of Mississippi pot roast into bite-sized form. With tender cocktail sausages simmered in a buttery, ranch-seasoned, and mildly spicy sauce, this is one of those slow-cooker favorites I love to throw together for game days, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. The combination of ranch seasoning, au jus mix, butter, and pepperoncini creates a tangy, rich glaze that clings perfectly to the lil smokies. Whether I serve them with toothpicks or pile them onto rolls for mini sandwiches, they’re always a hit.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lil smokies (cocktail sausages)

• Ranch seasoning mix

• Au jus gravy mix

• Unsalted butter

• Sliced pepperoncini peppers

• Juice from the pepperoncini jar

• Optional: garlic powder, black pepper, chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. I add the lil smokies to my slow cooker.

2. I sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus mix evenly over the top.

3. I add the sliced pepperoncini and a splash of the brine for extra tang.

4. I place the butter on top (cut into chunks for even melting).

5. I cover and cook on low for 2–3 hours, or high for 1–1.5 hours, until the smokies are heated through and the sauce is glossy and well blended.

6. I stir gently before serving and garnish with parsley if I want a pop of color.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10–12 appetizer servings. It takes 5 minutes to prep and 2–3 hours in the slow cooker—totally hands-off once it’s going.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of barbecue sauce or brown sugar for a sweeter finish. I’ve also made it with sliced kielbasa or chicken sausage instead of lil smokies. For more heat, I throw in extra pepperoncini or a dash of hot sauce. And when I want to turn them into a meal, I serve them over mashed potatoes or rice.

storage/reheating

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. They can also be kept warm in the slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting for serving at parties.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. I prep all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert, store it in the fridge overnight, and start cooking the next day.

Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?

Absolutely. I mix together dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper to make my own.

Are they spicy?

They’re tangy with a mild heat from the pepperoncini. I control the spice by adjusting how many peppers I add.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. I just double all the ingredients and use a large slow cooker to ensure everything heats evenly.

What should I serve with these?

I serve them with toothpicks as an appetizer, or tuck them into slider buns for a quick snack. They’re also great over rice or noodles for a meal-style version.

Conclusion

Mississippi Lil Smokies are bold, tangy, and completely addictive. With just a few pantry staples and a slow cooker, I turn a pack of lil smokies into a savory appetizer that steals the show. Whether I’m hosting game day or need a quick potluck favorite, this recipe always delivers big flavor with zero fuss.