There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent that fills my kitchen as these Mississippi-style Crock Pot Lit’l Smokies cook away. With their juicy, tender texture and a buttery, spicy glaze, these little bites are more than just a simple appetizer—they’re a celebration of Southern flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. I remember the first time I served them at a family gathering; the way eyes lit up upon the first taste was priceless.
What makes this dish truly special is its effortless preparation. With just five minutes of hands-on work and a slow cooker doing the magic, I can confidently focus on entertaining. Whether you’re looking to impress at a potluck or need a crowd-pleaser for game day, these lit’l smokies deliver bold flavors without the fuss. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this easy, flavor-packed recipe that will make any gathering one to remember!
Why Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies Shine?
Simplicity at its Finest: With only five minutes of prep, it’s the ultimate stress-free dish.
Bold, Southern Flavors: The combination of buttery, spicy glaze and tangy peppers creates a flavor explosion.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for game days or family gatherings, these smokies are sure to draw attention.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with garlic bread, rice, or mashed potatoes for endless possibilities.
Slow-Cooked Perfection: Let the crock pot do the work, delivering juicy, tender bites every time!
You’ll find yourself ready to impress without the hassle, making this recipe a must-try for every home cook.
Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies Ingredients
For the Smokies
• Lit’l Smokies – Use a 28-ounce package of fully cooked Lit’l Smokies for easily flavorful bites.
For the Sauce
• Peperoncini Juice – Adds a tangy flavor and moisture; substitute with water for less heat.
• Au Jus Gravy Mix – Enhances the savory depth and richness; consider homemade for a lower sodium option.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix – Brings herbaceous notes for added flavor complexity; making it at home allows control over salt levels.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and helps meld flavors; use salted in moderation if preferred.
For the Heat
• Pepperoncini Peppers – Adds extra spice and tanginess; adjust quantity based on your heat preference.
This ingredient lineup promises a deliciously simple dish that embodies the spirit of a perfect party appetizer with Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies!
How to Make Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies
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Layer the Smokies: Begin by placing the Lit’l Smokies at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. These little sausages are the stars of the show, ready to soak up all those delightful flavors.
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Add the Juice: Pour the tangy peperoncini juice over the smokies, ensuring they’re well-coated. This step adds that signature zest to our dish’s savory profile.
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Sprinkle Seasonings: Evenly sprinkle the au jus gravy mix followed by the ranch seasoning mix on top. This combination will create a beautifully rich and herby flavor that intertwines with the smokies.
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Top with Butter: Distribute cubes of unsalted butter over the seasoning mixture, then toss in the pepperoncini peppers. The butter will melt and meld the flavors, giving you that luscious glaze.
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Slow Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally until everything is fully warmed through and the flavors have blended beautifully.
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Serve Warm: When the time is right, serve these delectable smokies warm straight from the crock pot. They’re perfect for dipping and gathering around the table!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an aromatic touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies?
These irresistible little bites deserve delightful companions to create a full meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the savory sauce, enhancing the smoky flavors beautifully.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A comforting, buttery pairing that balances the zesty and spicy elements of the smokies, creating a satisfying bite.
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Coleslaw: The crisp, refreshing crunch of coleslaw adds a delightful contrast to the smoky richness, making each mouthful enjoyable.
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Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans provide a rich side dish, perfectly complementing the tangy flavors of the crock pot dish.
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Cornbread: This Southern classic offers a sweet, crumbly texture that pairs wonderfully with the savory, spicy notes of the smokies, turning each bite into a flavorful adventure.
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Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies offer a crunchy, vibrant addition to your meal, bringing balance to the rich flavors of the smokies while providing a colorful presentation.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink with zesty notes will help cut through the richness of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and customize these smoky delights for your next gathering!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a dairy-free buttery spread for a creamy yet dairy-free option.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture for a bolder, spicier flavor that really ignites the taste buds.
- Smoky Flavor Boost: Use smoked sausage instead of Lit’l Smokies to bring an even deeper layer of flavor to your dish. This will enhance that comforting, rich essence.
- Honey Sweetness: Drizzle a little honey over the top before serving for a sweet contrast to the tangy and spicy notes. It’s a delightful twist!
- Vegetarian Twist: Swap the smokies for plant-based sausage or even hearty mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian take that everyone can enjoy.
- Herbed Frenzy: Toss in some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving for an aromatic finish that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Cajun Flare: For a Louisiana-inspired twist, toss in Cajun seasoning or a splash of Cajun hot sauce to give your lit’l smokies a kick of Southern charm.
- Heartier Dish: Serve the smokies over creamy mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal, transforming it from appetizer to main course with ease.
With these variations, every bite will be a new adventure while celebrating the delightful flavors of Mississippi!
Storage Tips for Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: To enjoy later, freeze the smokies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
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Reheating: When ready to savor your Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies, reheat in the slow cooker on low until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
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Avoid Refreezing: If thawed, do not refreeze leftovers to maintain quality and safety.
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the smokies and seasonings up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial layering steps, placing the Lit’l Smokies in the slow cooker, followed by the peperoncini juice, au jus, ranch seasoning, butter, and pepperoncini peppers. Cover and refrigerate your slow cooker insert until you’re ready to cook. To maintain the quality, ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent absorption of other fridge odors. When you’re ready to serve, simply pull it out, cook on low for 2-3 hours, and enjoy these flavorful bites just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies
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Use Low Heat: Keeping the slow cooker on low ensures the smokies cook evenly without scorching. Stir gently throughout to prevent sticking.
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Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder flavor, replace the peperoncini juice with water. This way, you can enjoy the richness without overwhelming heat.
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Customize Seasoning: Opt for homemade ranch seasoning and au jus mixes for more control over sodium and freshness in your Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies.
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Add Texture: Consider tossing in some diced bell peppers or onions for an extra layer of flavor and added texture in your dish.
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Serve with Sides: Pair your smokies with garlic bread or over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. These additions can complement the smoky flavors beautifully.
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Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They also freeze well, allowing you to save this delightful dish for later.
Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies Recipe FAQs
What kind of Lit’l Smokies should I use?
For the best results, use a 28-ounce package of fully cooked Lit’l Smokies. These bite-sized sausages are the heart of the dish and provide a savory flavor that’s simply irresistible.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their deliciousness and to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze my Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these tasty bites in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just label the container with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the slow cooker on low until warmed through.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Very! If you’re looking to tone down the heat, simply substitute the peperoncini juice with water. Also, you can reduce the number of pepperoncini peppers used or omit them entirely for a milder flavor, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
How can I enhance the flavors?
I recommend using homemade ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mixes if you’re conscious about sodium levels. Additionally, feel free to toss in diced bell peppers or onions for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Is this recipe safe for pets?
It’s important to note that the seasonings (especially certain spices) and butter may not be ideal for pets. If you have dogs or cats, it’s best to keep this dish to yourself and avoid sharing, as the ingredients may not be healthy for them.
Crock Pot Mississippi Lit’l Smokies for Effortless Party Pleasing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Layer the Smokies: Begin by placing the Lit'l Smokies at the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the Juice: Pour the tangy peperoncini juice over the smokies, ensuring they're well-coated.
- Sprinkle Seasonings: Evenly sprinkle the au jus gravy mix followed by the ranch seasoning mix on top.
- Top with Butter: Distribute cubes of unsalted butter over the seasoning mixture, then toss in the pepperoncini peppers.
- Slow Cook: Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Serve Warm: When ready, serve these delectable smokies warm straight from the crock pot.