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Y'all need to try these Crock Pot Mississippi Lit'l Smokies! They've become my secret weapon for every party and game day. The way these tiny sausages soak up all that tangy savory goodness in the slow cooker is pure magic. Best part? Just five ingredients and your crock pot does all the work.
Why I Love This Recipe
Let me tell you this recipe is a lifesaver when I'm hosting. Just toss everything in the crock pot and forget about it. That combination of ranch seasoning pepperoncini and butter creates this amazing sauce that everyone goes crazy for. My guests always beg for the recipe.
Grab These Ingredients
- Lit'l Smokies: 1-2 packs depending on your crowd size.
- Pepperoncini Juice: 1/2 cup from the jar it's liquid gold.
- Au Jus Mix: 1 packet trust me on this one.
- Ranch Seasoning: 1 packet the secret ingredient.
- Butter: 1/2 cup cut into slices.
- Pepperoncinis: 5-6 whole ones for extra zip.
Let's Get Cooking
- Into the Pot
- Dump those smokies in your crock pot and pour that tangy pepperoncini juice all over.
- Layer It Up
- Sprinkle your seasonings evenly no clumps add the butter pats and those whole peppers.
- Set and Forget
- Cover and let it go low and slow for 3-4 hours or high for about 2 if you're in a hurry.
- Party Time
- Keep them warm right in the pot set out some toothpicks and watch them disappear.
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What to Serve With Them
These little guys are amazing with some crusty bread for soaking up that sauce. I like putting out a veggie platter too just to feel a bit virtuous. Sometimes we serve them over mashed potatoes for dinner it's absolutely divine.
Make Life Easy
Want to get ahead? I prep everything the night before right in my crock pot insert pop it in the fridge then just start cooking in the morning. The leftovers if you have any keep beautifully in the fridge for a few days. They even freeze well for quick appetizers later.
Switch Things Up
Sometimes I add sliced onions for extra flavor or throw in some red pepper flakes when we want heat. My cheese loving friends go crazy when I add a handful of shredded cheddar at the end. Play with the pepperoncini juice to get the tang just right for your crowd.
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Why Everyone Loves These
There's something about that buttery tangy sauce combined with the smoky sausages that keeps people coming back for more. Plus they're so easy to eat just grab and go. I've never had leftovers at any party they're always the first thing to disappear.
Keep Them Fresh
Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge they'll stay good for about 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again warm them up slowly in the microwave or pop them back in the crock pot. The sauce might need a little stir to come back together.
Perfect for Any Party
From Super Bowl Sunday to holiday gatherings these smokies never disappoint. They're just as perfect for a casual family dinner as they are for a big party. Plus keeping them warm in the crock pot means one less thing to worry about while hosting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook them ahead and keep warm in the slow cooker. They actually taste better as the flavors meld together over time.
- → How spicy are these smokies?
The heat level is mild, coming mainly from the pepperoncini. You can adjust by using more or fewer peppers and juice.
- → What if I can't find pepperoncini?
You can substitute with banana peppers or just skip them entirely. The ranch and au jus will still give great flavor.
- → Can I cook these on high?
While low and slow is best, you can cook on high for 1-2 hours. Just watch that the sauce doesn't reduce too much.
- → How do I serve these at a party?
Keep them warm in the slow cooker and provide toothpicks or small plates. They're perfect for self-serve buffet style.