Slow Cooker Mississippi Little Smokies
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The Comfort of Slow Cooker Mississippi Little Smokies
If there’s one dish that perfectly embodies comfort food, it’s undoubtedly Slow Cooker Mississippi Little Smokies. The mini smoked sausages meld beautifully with zesty ranch seasoning, savory au jus gravy, and a kick of pepperoncini, creating a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. I’ll never forget the first time I tried this recipe at a family gathering; the aroma wafting from the kitchen drew everyone in, and the moment those sausages hit the table, they disappeared within minutes! Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress without demanding all day in the kitchen.
Reasons You’ll Want to Make This Dish
Why should you consider making Slow Cooker Mississippi Little Smokies? For starters, this dish is incredibly versatile and downright delicious. It’s made with just a few budget-friendly ingredients, which makes it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests. Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, so you can serve it at your next gathering without a second thought.
“These Little Smokies are the ultimate party food! Everyone loved them and I didn’t even have to break a sweat making them!” – A Satisfied Home Cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. The preparation involves layering the ingredients in your slow cooker, letting it do all the hard work, and then indulging in the delightful results. You can choose to cook them on low for a slow simmer or kick up the heat for a quicker cooking time. This recipe really is as easy as 1-2-3!
What You’ll Need
For this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 30 oz package miniature smoked sausages
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 packet au jus gravy
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8-10 pepperoncini peppers
- 2 tablespoons pepperoncini juice
- 2 tablespoons water
(Tip: If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute the mini sausages with sliced kielbasa or another type of smoked sausage. Cherish the flavors that work for you!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by adding the mini smoked sausages to the bottom of a slow cooker that holds at least 4 quarts.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy evenly over the sausages.
- Dot the top with the unsalted butter, then add the sliced pepperoncini peppers, pepperoncini juice, and water.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid; set it on low for 4-5 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
- After the cooking time is up, give it a good stir to combine all the flavors, then serve immediately! If you’re not ready to eat just yet, you can keep it on the warm setting.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Slow Cooker Mississippi Little Smokies can be served in a variety of delightful ways. For a casual gathering, consider placing the sausages in a serving bowl and letting guests help themselves with toothpicks. Pair it with crunchy veggies and ranch dip for a refreshing contrast. Additionally, these smoky delights shine in sliders — just add them to small buns with a dollop of barbecue sauce. You can also serve them alongside coleslaw for a complete meal.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your leftovers is a breeze! To keep your Slow Cooker Mississippi Little Smokies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container and they’ll last up to 2 months. For reheating, defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if needed to maintain moisture.
Pro Chef Tips
Here are some secrets to maximize your flavor experience:
- For extra heat, consider adding more pepperoncini peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- If you like a thicker gravy, try incorporating a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
- Remember to taste before serving; you might want to add a pinch of salt or some fresh herbs to brighten up the flavors.
Flavor Swaps and Variations
Want to mix it up? Here are a few creative twists:
- Spicy Cajun: Swap the ranch seasoning for Cajun seasoning for a zesty kick.
- Cheesy Smokies: Add shredded cheese on top in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a gooey delight.
- Vegetarian Option: Try using plant-based sausage alternatives to cater to vegetarian friends.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
Prep time is minimal! You can have everything ready in about 10 minutes, and then it’s hands-off while it cooks.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re missing ranch seasoning, you can use a mix of dried herbs and spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for a different but tasty flavor profile.
What should I do with leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage. They reheat well in both the oven and microwave.
Give this recipe a try, and I promise it will become a go-to for your gatherings and quick family dinners. Enjoy the flavorful journey!
Slow Cooker Mississippi Little Smokies
Ingredients
Method
- Start by adding the mini smoked sausages to the bottom of a slow cooker that holds at least 4 quarts.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and au jus gravy evenly over the sausages.
- Dot the top with the unsalted butter, then add the sliced pepperoncini peppers, pepperoncini juice, and water.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid; set it on low for 4-5 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
- After the cooking time is up, give it a good stir to combine all the flavors, then serve immediately! If you’re not ready to eat just yet, you can keep it on the warm setting.
