Introduction
If you’re a fan of bold, smoky, and spicy flavors, then cheddar jalapeño summer sausage is a must-try. This savory, high-protein snack blends the creamy richness of cheddar cheese with the spicy kick of jalapeños, all wrapped in a perfectly cured sausage.
Not only is it a flavor-packed delight, but it’s also incredibly versatile—great for charcuterie boards, sandwiches, and even cooked dishes. Pairing it with Southern-style sides like collard greens with bacon elevates the experience to another level.
What is Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage?
This smoked and cured sausage is infused with:
- High-quality beef or pork (or a blend of both)
- Aged cheddar cheese that retains its texture
- Jalapeños, either fresh, dried, or pickled
- Savory spices like garlic, mustard seeds, and black pepper
- Curing agents to enhance flavor and shelf life
Unlike fresh sausage, summer sausage is dry-cured and smoked, which extends its shelf life and enhances its depth of flavor.
For a heartier meal, try pairing it with a classic comfort dish like easy sausage gravy and biscuits, adding a spicy, cheesy twist to this Southern favorite.
Why is Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage So Popular?
Bold Flavor – The perfect blend of heat, creaminess, and smokiness.
Long Shelf Life – Stays fresh for weeks thanks to the curing process.
Versatile Use – Works in snacks, sandwiches, and cooked meals.
Keto-Friendly & High Protein – Ideal for low-carb and high-protein diets.
How is Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage Made?
1. Selecting the Ingredients
- Meat: Premium-quality beef, pork, or a mix.
- Cheese: High-temperature cheddar that won’t melt away.
- Jalapeños: Fresh for crunch, dried for heat, or pickled for tang.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, mustard seeds, and curing salt.
2. The Process
- Grinding the Meat – The meat is finely ground for consistency.
- Mixing with Cheese & Jalapeños – Ensuring even distribution.
- Stuffing into Casings – Packed into natural or collagen casings.
- Fermenting & Drying – Develops its tangy depth.
- Smoking – Slowly smoked for a rich, deep flavor.
- Cooling & Packaging – Ready to slice and enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage
1. Charcuterie Boards
Pair with:
- Aged cheeses like gouda or parmesan
- Crackers & toasted bread
- Pickles, mustard, and honey for contrast
2. Sandwiches & Wraps
- Add slices to grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Use in breakfast wraps with eggs and avocado.
- Layer in hearty subs with lettuce and tomatoes.
3. Cooking & Recipes
- Dice it into mac & cheese for a smoky kick.
- Add to omelets and scrambles.
- Toss into pasta or rice dishes.
Looking for a delicious homemade bread to complement your sausage? Try making these cheesy garlic breadsticks for an extra layer of flavor!
Where to Buy the Best Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage
When shopping for the best quality, look for:
High Meat Content – Avoid overly processed fillers.
Real Cheese & Jalapeños – Not artificial flavors.
Smoked to Perfection – The deeper the smoke, the richer the taste.
Top Places to Buy
- Local Butcher Shops – Often fresher and better quality.
- Online Specialty Stores – Offers wider variety and premium brands.
- Farmers’ Markets – Support local artisans making handcrafted sausages.
Storage & Shelf Life Tips
To maximize freshness, follow these tips:
Unopened: Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Opened: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
FAQs About Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage
Q: Does it need refrigeration?
A: Unopened, no (if stored in a cool place). After opening, yes.
Q: Is cheddar jalapeño summer sausage spicy?
A: It has a mild to moderate heat level, depending on the brand.
Q: Can you eat it raw?
A: Yes! Since it’s fully cooked and cured, it’s safe to eat straight from the package.
Q: What drinks pair well with it?
A: Beer, whiskey, and bold red wines complement the smoky and spicy flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cheddar jalapeño summer sausage is the perfect combination of smoky, cheesy, and spicy goodness. Whether you enjoy it on its own, in recipes, or paired with other foods, it’s a must-have for any meat lover.
For a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with Southern classics like collard greens with bacon or fluffy biscuits and sausage gravy.
Looking to try some today? Visit your local butcher, specialty store, or online retailer to grab a high-quality one. And if you’re adventurous, why not try making your own at home? 🚀
The Ultimate Guide to Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage
Ingredients
Ingredients for Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage
Meat & Dairy:
- 2 lbs ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup high-temperature cheddar cheese, diced or shredded
Spices & Seasonings:
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Jalapeños & Flavor Enhancers:
- 2 fresh jalapeños, finely diced (or ¼ cup pickled jalapeños)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke (for deeper smoky flavor)
Curing & Binding Agents:
- 1 tsp pink curing salt (Prague Powder #1)
- ¼ cup ice water
Casings:
- Collagen or natural sausage casings (optional for stuffing)
Instructions
Instructions for Making Cheddar Jalapeño Summer Sausage
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, cheddar cheese, and diced jalapeños.
- In a separate small bowl, mix all spices, curing salt, and seasonings together.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the meat mixture and mix well until fully incorporated.
2. Add Liquid Ingredients
- Pour in the ice water, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke.
- Mix thoroughly for about 5 minutes until the meat becomes sticky and binds together.
3. Shape or Stuff the Sausage
- If using casings: Soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes, then stuff the meat mixture into the casings using a sausage stuffer.
- If not using casings: Shape the mixture into logs or rolls, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
4. Cure the Sausage
- Refrigerate the sausage for at least 12-24 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
5. Smoking & Cooking
- Preheat your smoker to 160-180°F (70-80°C).
- Smoke the sausages slowly for 4-6 hours, increasing the temperature gradually to internal 155°F (68°C).
- If using an oven, bake at 175°F (80°C) for about 4 hours until fully cooked.
6. Cooling & Storing
- Once done, let the sausages cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or vacuum seal and freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your homemade cheddar jalapeño summer sausage in sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or as a protein-packed snack! 🔥🥩🧀