Why You’ll Love this Beef Summer Sausage Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying snack, you’ll love this Beef Summer Sausage recipe. It’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or even just a cozy night in. What really excites me is how simple it’s to make. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a savory treat that outshines store-bought options. The rich flavors from the spices and the tenderness of the beef make every bite memorable. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with cheese and crackers or can be enjoyed on its own. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Beef Summer Sausage
When it comes to whipping up a batch of Beef Summer Sausage, the ingredients are simple, but they pack a flavorful punch. You don’t need to wander down the fancy spice aisle at your local grocery store or raid the pantry for hard-to-find items. Nope, everything you need is pretty basic and can be found in most kitchens.
Trust me, once you gather these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to impressing your friends and family with this homemade delight.
Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Beef Summer Sausage:
- 5 lbs hamburger meat
- 5 teaspoons Morton Tender Quick salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons mustard seeds
- 2 1/2 teaspoons pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon hickory smoke salt (I like to use French’s)
It’s kind of amazing how these straightforward ingredients come together to create something so tasty. You might be wondering about the Morton Tender Quick salt – it’s a curing salt, which helps to preserve the meat and gives it that classic summer sausage flavor.
If you decide to substitute another type of salt, just remember that it might change the flavor and texture a bit. And mustard seeds? They add a delightful crunch and a hint of zing when you bite into the sausage.
Honestly, don’t skip on those. They’re the little spice fairy dust that makes this sausage truly special. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some mouthwatering magic in the kitchen.
How to Make Beef Summer Sausage
Now, let’s plunge into the fun part—making your very own Beef Summer Sausage. It’s a simple process, but it does take a bit of time, so patience is key. You’ll want to start by grabbing your 5 lbs of hamburger meat.
In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle in 5 teaspoons of Morton Tender Quick salt, 2 1/2 teaspoons of mustard seeds, 2 1/2 teaspoons of pepper, 1 1/2 teaspoons of garlic salt, and 1 teaspoon of hickory smoke salt. Mix it all together really well. I mean, get in there and use those hands! It’s like a mini workout, and trust me, it’s way more fun than going to the gym.
Once it’s all mixed, cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill out for the first day.
On day two, it’s time to knead the mixture like you’re making bread. This step is super important because it helps to blend the flavors and gives the sausage that perfect texture. Remember, you’re not just mixing; you’re creating magic.
After you’ve kneaded it, cover it again and return it to the fridge. Repeat this kneading step once more on the third day. I know it feels like a long wait, but good things come to those who wait, right? By the end of the third day, your dish will be bursting with flavor, and you’ll be practically drooling thinking about the end result.
Finally, on the fourth day, it’s time to shape your creation. Form the meat mixture into five rolls, each about 1 1/2 inches thick. Lay them out on a broiler pan—trust me, this isn’t the time to skimp on the pan.
Bake those beauties at 175 degrees for a solid four hours. Yes, four hours. You heard that right. Just make sure to turn them once every hour. This slow cooking is what gives the sausage its rich flavor and that delightful texture.
When the cooking time is up, let them drain on a rack. You’ll want to resist the urge to plunge in immediately, but a little patience will only make the first bite that much sweeter.
Soon enough, you’ll have a delicious homemade Beef Summer Sausage that’ll impress everyone at your next gathering. Just remember to save some for yourself!
Beef Summer Sausage Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Beef Summer Sausage recipe, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate your sausage-making game.
For a twist, try blending in ground pork or turkey for a leaner option. You can swap out hickory smoke salt for mesquite or applewood for a different flavor profile.
Adding crushed red pepper or smoked paprika brings a nice kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Don’t hesitate to mix in chopped olives or jalapeños for an interesting texture and taste. Each variation offers a unique touch that keeps things exciting!
What to Serve with Beef Summer Sausage
Beef summer sausage makes a fantastic centerpiece for any gathering, and pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your experience.
I love serving it alongside a selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar and creamy gouda, as they complement the sausage’s rich flavors perfectly.
Add some crusty bread or crackers for texture, and don’t forget a spread like spicy mustard or tangy chutney.
Fresh fruits, such as grapes or apple slices, add a revitalizing contrast.
Finally, a few crunchy pickles or olives can bring the whole platter together.
Trust me, your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your beef summer sausage turns out perfectly, I’ve found that paying attention to the curing process is vital.
Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly on the first day; this allows the flavors to meld. On the second and third days, knead the mixture well—it helps develop the texture.
Don’t skip refrigerating the sausage; it’s essential for flavor enhancement and safety.
When baking, using a broiler pan lets the grease drain, giving you a leaner sausage.
Finally, let the rolls cool on a rack to maintain that perfect firmness.
Enjoy the delicious results of your hard work!