Mississippi Lil’ Smokies

Mississippi Lil’ Smokies Recipe (Easy 3-Ingredient Party Appetizer)

If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing appetizer that delivers bold Southern flavor, Mississippi Lil’ Smokies are the perfect choice. Inspired by the famous Mississippi Pot Roast, this simple recipe combines smoky sausages, ranch seasoning, butter, and tangy pepperoncini for an irresistible bite. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, holiday gathering, or family potluck, this dish is guaranteed to disappear fast.

Best of all, this Mississippi Lil’ Smokies recipe requires minimal prep, uses simple ingredients, and can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. It’s a go-to appetizer you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love Mississippi Lil’ Smokies

Only a few ingredients but packed with flavor
Perfect for parties, holidays, and game day
Easy to make in a slow cooker or skillet
Sweet, smoky, buttery, and tangy all in one bite
A twist on classic Lil’ Smokies that guests rave about

Ingredients for Mississippi Lil’ Smokies

2 (14-oz) packages Lil’ Smokies sausages
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
6–8 pepperoncini peppers
¼ cup pepperoncini juice (optional, for extra tang)

How to Make Mississippi Lil’ Smokies (Slow Cooker Method)

Add the sausages
Place the Lil’ Smokies into your slow cooker.
Season
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the sausages.
Add butter and peppers
Cut the butter into slices and place on top. Add pepperoncini peppers and pour in a little of the juice if desired.
Cook low and slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 2–3 hours or HIGH for 1–1½ hours, stirring occasionally.
Serve warm
Once the butter is melted and the sauce is bubbly, your Mississippi Lil’ Smokies are ready to serve.

Stovetop Instructions

Add all ingredients to a large skillet or saucepan.
Cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for about 20–25 minutes until heated through and coated in sauce.

Tips for the Best Mississippi Lil’ Smokies

For a spicier kick, add extra pepperoncini or a splash of juice
Use beef or pork Lil’ Smokies depending on preference
Keep warm in the slow cooker during parties
Serve with toothpicks for easy grabbing

What to Serve with Mississippi Lil’ Smokies

Cheese cubes or cheddar dip
Crackers or mini slider buns
Potato salad or coleslaw
Other appetizers like deviled eggs or buffalo wings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Mississippi Lil’ Smokies ahead of time?
Yes! Reheat them in the slow cooker on LOW or on the stovetop before serving.

Are Mississippi Lil’ Smokies spicy?
They’re mildly tangy, not overly spicy. You can adjust heat by adding more pepperoncini juice.

Final Thoughts

This Mississippi Lil’ Smokies recipe is the ultimate easy appetizer—rich, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something savory, these buttery, ranch-seasoned sausages are always a hit.