Homemade Summer Sausage

Indulge in the essence of summer with this Homemade Summer Sausage recipe, a perfect addition to any BBQ or gathering. This easy-to-make sausage is bursting with flavor and ideal for enjoying with friends and family under the sun.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating your own Homemade Summer Sausage allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking and ensure that you’re using quality ingredients. It’s a great way to impress your guests at summer parties and enjoy a delicious snack any time.

How to Make Homemade Summer Sausage

Ingredients:

• 5 lb ground hamburger (no lean burger)
• 5 Tbsp liquid smoke
• 5 Tbsp Morton Salt Tender Quick
• 2 Tbsp coarse ground pepper
• 2 Tbsp minced garlic
• 2 Tbsp mustard seeds

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix all ingredients together using your hands, similar to making meatloaf.
2. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for 24 hours.
3. After 24 hours, knead the mixture again and shape it into 4 logs of approximately 1-2 inches each.
4. Place the logs on a baking sheet with sides and bake at 300°F for 3 hours.
5. Remove the logs from the oven and wrap each in wax paper with aluminum foil.
6. Refrigerate until well chilled.
7. Serve by slicing and enjoy alone or with crackers and cheese.

Note: When forming the logs, ensure they are tightly packed to prevent cracks during baking. For venison, use 3 lbs of venison and 2 lbs of hamburger.

How to Serve Homemade Summer Sausage

Slice the chilled sausage and serve it as a delightful snack on its own or pair it with crackers and cheese for a more substantial treat. It’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, or as a quick and tasty appetizer.

How to Store Homemade Summer Sausage

Store the Homemade Summer Sausage in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap. It can last for up to 2 weeks when properly stored. For longer storage, freeze the sausage and thaw before serving.

Tips to Make Homemade Summer Sausage

• Ensure all ingredients are well combined for even flavor distribution.
• Use high-quality meat for the best taste and texture.
• Keep the logs tightly wrapped to maintain freshness.

Variation

For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs and seasonings to personalize the flavor to your preference.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground hamburger? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
2. Can I adjust the seasoning to make the sausage less spicy? Of course, feel free to reduce the amount of pepper and garlic to suit your taste.
3. Is it necessary to refrigerate the sausage for 24 hours? Refrigerating the mixture allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful sausage, but you can shorten the time if needed.