Grocery · 12 oz
Beef Summer Sausage
What it is
This is a cured and smoked sausage made primarily from beef. It is typically seasoned with a blend of spices that can include black pepper, garlic, and mustard seed. Summer sausage is known for its firm texture and savory flavor, making it a popular choice for snacking and entertaining. It is often sold in a cylindrical shape, ready to be sliced and enjoyed without further cooking.
How people cook with it
Beef summer sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many ways, from simple snacks to more elaborate dishes.
- Sliced for cheese boards
- Diced into salads
- Added to casseroles
- Eaten as a snack
To prepare beef summer sausage, simply remove it from its packaging. It is already fully cooked and safe to eat as is. You can slice it thinly for a charcuterie board or thicker for a heartier snack. For cooking, it can be diced and added to pasta dishes, casseroles, or baked beans. It also holds its shape well when pan-fried, making it a good addition to breakfast scrambles or as a topping for pizzas. Its robust flavor complements many other ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike fresh sausages that require thorough cooking, summer sausage is cured and smoked, which preserves it and gives it a distinct, tangy flavor profile. Its firm texture also sets it apart from softer, ground meat sausages.
Who it is for
Home cooks and entertainers often choose this sausage for its convenience and crowd-pleasing taste.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any leftover beef summer sausage tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within a few days to maintain its freshness and quality. Unopened, it can be stored at room temperature for a longer period.