Mississippi Little Smokies are the ultimate party appetizer: bite-sized, flavorful sausages smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe combines mini sausages with brown sugar, tangy pepperoncini, and creamy butter to create a simple yet irresistible dish perfect for gatherings, game days, or holiday parties.

Unlike standard cocktail sausages, Mississippi Little Smokies balance sweetness, heat, and richness in every bite. The brown sugar caramelizes slightly while cooking, coating the sausages in a glossy, sticky glaze. The pepperoncini adds subtle heat and acidity that cuts through the richness, making these smoky little bites highly addictive.

Easy to prepare, this appetizer can be cooked in the oven or a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy hosts who want a stress-free yet impressive dish.

Ingredients

2 lbs mini sausages (cocktail-sized)
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup pepperoncini juice (from jar)
6–8 whole pepperoncini, sliced
Optional: 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or chives

Instructions

Preheat Oven (if baking):
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Prepare Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, melted butter, brown sugar, pepperoncini juice, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir until smooth.
Assemble:
Place mini sausages in the prepared baking dish. Pour the sauce over the sausages, stirring lightly to coat. Add sliced pepperoncini on top.
Bake:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized. Stir once halfway through to coat evenly.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy grabbing.
Slow Cooker Option:
Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 2–3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.

Tips for Perfect Mississippi Little Smokies

Cheese Consistency: Make sure cream cheese is softened for a smooth sauce.
Sweetness Control: Adjust brown sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet glaze.
Spicy Kick: Add more sliced pepperoncini or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Make Ahead: Assemble in the dish and refrigerate overnight; bake or slow cook just before serving.

Variations

Smoky Twist: Add a few drops of liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor.
BBQ Flavor: Substitute some butter with BBQ sauce for a tangy, smoky twist.
Cheese-Stuffed: Slice mini sausages lengthwise and stuff with small cheese cubes for an extra gooey bite.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix brown sugar with a bit of chili powder for a caramelized sweet-and-spicy glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a finger-food appetizer at parties or family gatherings.
Pair with crackers, cheese, or veggies on a holiday appetizer platter.
Ideal for game days alongside wings, sliders, and dips.

Fun Facts

Mississippi Little Smokies originated in the Southern U.S. and are often served at parties and potlucks.
Pepperoncini provide a tangy contrast to the sweetness of brown sugar, creating a uniquely balanced flavor.
This dish is popular for its simplicity, requiring just a few pantry staples while delivering maximum flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of sweet brown sugar, tangy pepperoncini, and creamy butter ensures every bite is flavorful and satisfying. Mini sausages remain juicy, while the caramelized sauce clings to each piece. Using a slow cooker or oven gives flexibility, making it easy to serve piping hot to a crowd without constant monitoring.