Summer Sausage
Summer Sausage is a flavorful, homemade cured sausage with a smoky, savory taste perfect for snacking or entertaining. Its simple ingredients and process make it accessible for home cooks. The sausage offers a satisfying bite with hints of garlic and mustard seed, ideal for casual gatherings or outdoor enjoyment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together well with hands, then leave in a bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours.
- Make into 2-inch rolls that are about 6 to 8 inches long.
- Wrap each roll in foil, shiny side turned toward the meat. Slit the bottom of the foil in two places.
- Place on a rack or cookie sheet and bake at 300°F for 1 hour.
- Chill in refrigerator.
- Slice when ready to use.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, let the mixture rest for the full 24 hours in the refrigerator. If you prefer a spicier sausage, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, but keep in mind that the texture may vary. Ensure to use a good quality cure salt for proper preservation.
Serving Suggestions
This summer sausage is delicious served cold on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, crackers, and pickles. It pairs beautifully with Baked Bean Salad for a hearty meal. Consider slicing it for sandwiches or incorporating it into breakfast dishes like omelets. It also complements picnic spreads and outdoor gatherings perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover summer sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When ready to use, simply slice and serve cold or reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Summer Sausage contains roughly 587 calories, with 28g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 875mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat for this sausage?
Yes, you can experiment with different meats like ground pork or chicken. Just keep in mind that each type of meat may require adjustments in cooking time or moisture content to ensure the sausage remains flavorful and properly cooked.
How can I tell when the sausage is fully cooked?
The sausage is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the sausage should have a firm texture and no pink color remaining in the center.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This summer sausage can be made a few days in advance. Just ensure it is properly stored in the refrigerator after cooking. The flavors will actually improve as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).