Description of this recipe
Mississippi Lil Smokies are a crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring tender cocktail sausages immersed in a savory blend of beef gravy, ranch seasoning, and tangy pepperoncini peppers. Perfect for parties, game day, or family gatherings, this recipe delivers comfort food flavor with minimal effort.
Why you will love this recipe
You will absolutely love Mississippi Lil Smokies for their rich, irresistible taste and easy preparation. With just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of flavors—from the buttery sausages to the zesty pepperoncini—creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or enjoying a cozy night in, these smokies are sure to impress!
Introduction
Looking for an easy yet delicious appetizer that will have your guests raving? Look no further! Mississippi Lil Smokies are the perfect solution for your next gathering. This recipe combines the nostalgic flavor of Lil Smokies with a savory sauce that is both creamy and zesty, making it an ideal finger food that pairs wonderfully with cocktail hour. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
Sit back, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen! In just a few hours, you’ll have a delectable dish ready to serve with warm toothpicks and plenty of smiles.
Ingredients:
- 28 ounces Lil Smokies cocktail sausages
- 12 ounces beef gravy from a jar
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup pepperoncini peppers, plus ¼ cup juice from jar
Preparation:
Step 1: Begin by adding the Lil Smokies cocktail sausages to your slow cooker. A 6-quart slow cooker works great for this recipe, but you can adjust based on the quantity.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the jarred beef gravy and ranch seasoning mix until thoroughly combined, ensuring the seasoning is well-distributed in the sauce.
Step 3: Next, add the ¼ cup of juice from the pepperoncini jar to the gravy mixture. This step is crucial as it adds an additional layer of tanginess and depth to the dish.
Step 4: Pour the gravy and seasoning mixture over the sausages in the slow cooker. Add the pepperoncini peppers on top for that extra punch of flavor and color.
Step 5: Stir the mixture gently to ensure that all the sausages are well coated with the gravy and seasoning. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 4 hours. After cooking, turn off the slow cooker; the Lil Smokies should be tender and flavorful. Serve hot with toothpicks for easy eating!
COOKING Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 out of 5)
Serving Suggestions:
Mississippi Lil Smokies are best served hot and can be paired with various sides for an enhanced experience. Try serving them with:
- Mini slider buns for a delightful sandwich option.
- Crackers and cheese, perfect for a hearty snack plate.
- Veggies like celery, carrots, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh crunch.
- Dips such as ranch or spicy mustard to complement the rich flavors.
Tips:
- For an extra kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños to the mix.
- Serve with fresh herbs as garnish, such as parsley or cilantro, to add a pop of color.
- If you have leftovers (though they usually vanish quickly), Mississippi Lil Smokies store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of pepperoncini to suit your taste; more for those who enjoy a spicier dish!
- Substitute the beef gravy with turkey or chicken gravy for a lighter version.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
4 hours
Total Time:
4 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 210 per serving (based on serving size of 3 pieces)
- Protein: 12 grams
- Sodium: 950 mg
Conclusion
Mississippi Lil Smokies are perfect for any occasion where you want to bring something delicious to the table with minimal effort. These succulent little sausages, enveloped in a robust ranch-flavored gravy, combined with the distinct tang of pepperoncini, make for an unforgettable appetizer. The slow-cooking method ensures every bite is tender and packed with flavor, leaving your guests asking for the recipe. With their ease of preparation and mouthwatering flavor, Mississippi Lil Smokies will certainly become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire.
Questions and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I make Mississippi Lil Smokies in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare them a day ahead of time! Simply set your slow cooker to cook about 30 minutes before your desired serving time. Just reheat, and they will be as delicious as if cooked fresh.
Q2: Can I add other ingredients or customize the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Add other ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or even shredded cheese for a unique twist on the original recipe.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover Lil Smokies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q4: What type of Lil Smokies should I use?
A: You can use any brand or variety of cocktail sausages. Beef, turkey, or chicken Lil Smokies all work well in this recipe, depending on your preference.
Q5: What should I serve with Mississippi Lil Smokies?
A: These smokies are great on their own but can be served with slider buns, fresh veggies, or a variety of dipping sauces for a more complete appetizer spread.
This comprehensive recipe for Mississippi Lil Smokies ensures you’ll have everything you need to create a fantastic and delicious appetizer that guests will rave about long after they’ve devoured it. Enjoy cooking!
