Grocery
Hillshire Farm Summer Sausage
What it is
This is a fully cooked, cured sausage. It is typically made from a blend of pork and beef. The sausage is seasoned and smoked, giving it a distinct flavor. It is often sold in a large, cylindrical shape, ready to be sliced and served. The texture is firm and dense, a characteristic of summer sausage.
How people cook with it
Summer sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in many ways. It is a popular choice for snacking and entertaining.
- Sliced for cheese boards
- Added to casseroles
- Cubed for salads
- Served with crackers
This summer sausage is already cooked, so it can be eaten straight from the package. For a warm preparation, you can slice it and pan-fry it until it is lightly browned and heated through. It also works well when diced and added to baked dishes, like pasta bakes or breakfast casseroles. The smoky flavor complements many other ingredients, making it a flexible addition to various meals and appetizers.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike fresh sausages that require thorough cooking, summer sausage is cured and smoked, making it shelf-stable before opening. Its dense, firm texture also sets it apart from softer, ground sausages. The flavor profile is typically more savory and less spicy than some other types of sausage.
Who it is for
Home cooks and entertainers often choose this sausage for its convenience and crowd-pleasing taste.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, refrigerate any unused portion of the summer sausage. It should be kept tightly wrapped or in an airtight container. This helps to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out. Properly stored, it can be kept for several days in the refrigerator.