Crockpot Mississippi Little Smokies (The Ultimate Party Appetizer)

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Looking for the easiest crockpot appetizer for a crowd? These Crockpot Mississippi Little Smokies are packed with tangy peperoncini flavor, savory ranch and au jus seasoning, and buttery richness. Whether you’re hosting a potluck party, bringing snacks to a Super Bowl party, or just need an easy finger food to keep guests happy, this cocktail sausage recipe is a total game-changer.

If you love the Mississippi Pot Roast, then you are gonna absolutely LOVE this new variation! They’re spicy, smoky, buttery, and seriously addictive. And the best part? These sausages aren’t just for parties—you can spoon them over mashed potatoes or rice for a full-on comfort food meal. Trust me, this is one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These lil’ smokies are the perfect balance of zesty, rich, and meaty flavors. The peperoncini juice gives them a little zip without being too spicy, while the ranch and au jus mixes create a savory, buttery sauce that clings to every bite. They’re always a hit at potluck parties—easy to grab with a toothpick, easy to prep in advance, and totally satisfying. Plus, this recipe can be scaled up or down depending on your crowd size, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 3 (12 oz) packages of little smokies sausages
• ½ cup peperoncini juice (or substitute with low-sodium beef broth or water for a milder flavor)
• 1 oz envelope of au jus gravy mix
• 1 oz envelope of ranch seasoning mix
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, sliced
• 1 cup sliced peperoncini peppers (adjust to taste)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Note: You’ll need a slow cooker that holds at least 5 quarts for this recipe.

How to Make Crockpot Lil’ Smokies

1. Load the slow cooker:
Place all the little smokies into your crockpot. Pour the peperoncini juice evenly over the top of the sausages.

2. Add seasonings:
Sprinkle the au jus gravy mix and ranch seasoning evenly over the sausages. Stir everything together gently so the seasoning coats the sausages.

3. Layer on the butter and peppers:
Add the sliced butter evenly over the top, followed by the sliced peperoncini peppers. The butter will melt down into the sauce and give it a silky, flavorful finish.

4. Cook low and slow:
Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours, stirring halfway through. You’ll know it’s done when the sausages are hot, and the sauce is bubbling and well mixed.

5. Garnish and serve:
If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. These are perfect as a cocktail bite on toothpicks or spooned over mashed potatoes or rice for a heartier dish.

Storage

• Fridge: Let any leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheat: Warm them up in the microwave or toss them back into the crockpot on low until heated through.
• Freezer-friendly? While you can freeze them, the sauce may change slightly in texture. Best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Tips & Tricks

• For less spice: Use half peperoncini juice and half water or broth—or just skip the juice entirely and go with beef broth.
• For more sauce (especially for serving as a meal): Add an extra ½ cup of beef broth to make more gravy-like goodness.
• Don’t add salt! The ranch and au jus seasoning packs are already salty—no extra needed.
• Whole vs sliced peppers: Either works, but sliced blends in more evenly and makes every bite pop with flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep everything in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to cook, just place it in the slow cooker and turn it on. Great for early prep before a party!

What can I serve these with besides as an appetizer?
These little smokies are amazing over mashed potatoes, white rice, or even buttered noodles. The buttery sauce acts like gravy—so good!

Is this recipe spicy?
Not really! The peperoncini gives a mild heat and tang, but it’s not overpowering. If you’re heat-sensitive, just reduce the amount of juice and peppers or dilute with water.

Can I use a different sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey or beef lil’ smokies, or even cut up regular smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.

What size crockpot should I use?
At least a 5-quart crockpot is ideal. If you’re doubling the recipe, use a 6 or 7-quart model to avoid overflow.

Whether you’re hosting game day, feeding a hungry crowd, or just want an ultra-simple weeknight comfort food option, these Crockpot Mississippi Little Smokies are your new go-to. They’re low effort, full of flavor, and guaranteed to disappear fast at any potluck party or Super Bowl spread. Go on and grab those toothpicks—these smokies won’t last long!