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Mississippi Lil Smokies

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If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, look no further than Mississippi Lil Smokies. This easy, flavorful recipe combines savory, smoky sausages with a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that’s sure to have your guests coming back for seconds—and thirds! Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, these Lil Smokies are guaranteed to steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: With minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
  • Bold Flavors: A balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors makes these Lil Smokies irresistible.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: From potlucks to parties, they’re always a hit.

Ingredients

To whip up this delicious appetizer, you’ll need:

  • 1 package of Lil Smokies sausages (about 14 oz)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite brand for a personalized touch)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

this recipe
  1. Prepare the Sauce
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder until smooth.
  1. Combine Ingredients
  • Place the Lil Smokies in a slow cooker or a large skillet. Pour the sauce over the sausages, ensuring they’re fully coated.
  1. Cook to Perfection
  • Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 2-3 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Stovetop Method: Simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the sauce thickens.
  1. Serve
  • Transfer the Lil Smokies to a serving dish, and enjoy them hot! Serve with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Tips for Success

  • Customize the Flavor: Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Combine with the sausages when ready to cook.
  • Double the Batch: These Lil Smokies disappear fast, so consider making extra!

Pairing Suggestions

Mississippi Lil Smokies pair wonderfully with:

  • Dips: Serve alongside creamy ranch or a tangy mustard dip.
  • Sides: Complement with potato wedges, coleslaw, or cornbread for a hearty spread.
  • Drinks: Offer a variety of beverages like beer, soda, or a refreshing cocktail.

Why Mississippi Lil Smokies Stand Out

This recipe brings a Southern twist to classic cocktail sausages. The combination of sweet barbecue sauce and tangy mustard pays homage to the bold, comforting flavors Mississippi cuisine is known for. Perfect for gatherings, these bite-sized delights are a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Conclusion

Ready to impress your guests with a flavorful appetizer? Mississippi Lil Smokies are easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Add this recipe to your party menu, and watch them disappear in no time.

Serving and Storage Tips for Mississippi Lil Smokies

Serving Tips

  • Presentation Matters: Serve the Lil Smokies in a decorative bowl or a mini slow cooker to keep them warm throughout the party.
  • Individual Portions: For a grab-and-go option, place individual servings in small cups or ramekins with toothpicks on the side.
  • Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Pair with a Dipping Sauce: Provide extra barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli for variety.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though it’s rare with this dish!), here’s how to store them:

Refrigeration

  • Cool Down First: Allow the Lil Smokies to cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Airtight Container: Place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Lil Smokies freeze well for up to 2 months.
  • How to Freeze: Transfer them (with sauce) into a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

  • Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
  • Slow Cooker: Place them back in the slow cooker on low heat for about an hour to gently reheat.

Pro Tip: If reheating frozen Lil Smokies, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator first for even heating.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Mississippi Lil Smokies long after the party ends!

1. Can I make Mississippi Lil Smokies without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can prepare them on the stovetop. Simply simmer the Lil Smokies in a large skillet with the sauce over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re heated through and the sauce thickens.

2. Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes! While Lil Smokies are the classic choice, you can substitute them with mini hot dogs, cocktail sausages, or even sliced smoked sausage. Adjust the cooking time slightly if the sausages are larger.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?

For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. Adjust to your preferred level of heat.

4. Can I prepare Mississippi Lil Smokies ahead of time?

Definitely! Prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Combine it with the Lil Smokies when you’re ready to cook. If you’ve already cooked them, reheat in a slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving.

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Mississippi Lil Smokies

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  • Author: Stephanie
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2-3 hours
  • Total Time: 2-3 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 10–12 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Party Food
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

These Mississippi Lil Smokies are a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet appetizer inspired by the bold flavors of Mississippi pot roast. Perfect for game days, parties, or holiday gatherings, they’re made with cocktail sausages simmered in a flavorful sauce that’s quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 (14 oz) packages Lil Smokies (cocktail sausages)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
  • 1 packet au jus gravy mix (1 oz)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 6–8 pepperoncini peppers
  • 2 tbsp juice from the pepperoncini jar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:

  1. In a slow cooker, combine the ranch seasoning mix, au jus gravy mix, butter, pepperoncini peppers, and pepperoncini juice. Stir to combine.

2. Add the Smokies:

  1. Add the Lil Smokies to the slow cooker and toss them gently to coat in the sauce.

3. Cook:

  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours, or on high for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

4. Serve:

  1. Once the sausages are hot and the sauce is well combined, transfer them to a serving dish or serve directly from the slow cooker to keep them warm.

Notes

  • Spicy Variation: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or extra pepperoncini juice for a spicier kick.
  • Thicker Sauce: For a thicker sauce, stir in 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
  • Make Ahead: These can be made ahead and reheated in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.

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