Description
Mississippi Lil Smokies are a delicious and easy-to-make party appetizer featuring cocktail sausages cooked in a savory butter-based sauce with ranch seasoning, au jus gravy mix, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. Prepared in a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for game-day snacks or casual gatherings, offering a flavorful and hearty treat that’s sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) package of Lil Smokies cocktail sausages
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 oz packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 oz packet au jus gravy mix
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers
- 1 tablespoon pepperoncini juice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Begin by placing the entire package of Lil Smokies cocktail sausages into your slow cooker, spreading them out evenly to allow for consistent cooking and flavor infusion.
- Melt the Butter and Add Seasonings: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the ranch seasoning mix, the au jus gravy mix, and optionally add the pepperoncini juice for an extra tangy flavor. Mix well to combine all flavors into a smooth sauce.
- Combine Sauce and Sausages: Pour the prepared butter and seasoning mixture evenly over the Lil Smokies in the slow cooker, making sure all sausages are well-coated with the sauce.
- Add Pepperoncini Peppers: Place the pepperoncini peppers on top of the sausages. For a spicier kick, you may slice the pepperoncini peppers before adding them.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. This slow cooking method ensures the sausages absorb all the rich flavors and are thoroughly heated.
- Serve Warm: Before serving, give the mixture a gentle stir to redistribute the sauce and peppers. Serve warm, ideally with toothpicks, making it easy for guests to enjoy this tasty party appetizer.
Notes
- Adding a splash of pepperoncini juice enhances the tanginess if you prefer a bolder flavor.
- For a spicier version, slice the pepperoncini peppers before cooking to release more heat.
- These Lil Smokies are perfect for serving at parties or as game-day snacks and work great when presented with toothpicks for easy grabbing.