Summer sausage and cheese represent one of food’s most iconic duos—a pairing that graces charcuterie boards, holiday gift baskets, and casual snack plates with equal elegance.
This classic combination offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that has stood the test of time. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how to select, serve, and elevate this timeless pairing for everything from elegant entertaining to everyday enjoyment.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Summer sausage, despite its seasonal name, has earned year-round popularity thanks to its convenience and distinctive flavor profile. Originally developed as a preservation method before refrigeration was widely available, summer sausage is a semi-dry, cured meat that doesn’t require refrigeration until opened. The term encompasses various styles, from German-inspired varieties to tangy, spiced American versions.
What makes the summer sausage and cheese pairing so remarkable is the complementary nature of these foods. The tangy, savory notes of summer sausage contrast beautifully with the creamy richness of cheese, while their textures—one firm and sliceable, the other ranging from soft to crumbly—create an engaging sensory experience with each bite.
This guide will help you understand the nuances of this classic combination and provide you with the knowledge to create perfect pairings for any occasion—whether you’re assembling a quick snack or designing an impressive charcuterie display for guests.
Ingredients
Classic Summer Sausage and Cheese Pairing Essentials:
- 8-12 oz traditional beef or beef/pork summer sausage
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz smoked gouda
- 4 oz creamy havarti
- Assorted crackers (water crackers, butter crackers, whole grain options)
- Whole grain mustard
- Fig jam or honey for sweet contrast
- Fresh grapes and apple slices
- Mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (rosemary sprigs, thyme)
Regional American Summer Sausage Variations:
- Midwestern-style beef summer sausage with garlic and mustard seeds
- Venison summer sausage with juniper and black pepper
- Cajun-spiced summer sausage with paprika and cayenne
- Hickory-smoked beef summer sausage
- Wine-infused varieties with notes of red wine or port
Cheese Selection Categories:
- Firm Classics: Aged cheddar, Colby, Swiss, Gruyère
- Creamy Options: Havarti, butterkäse, young gouda, Muenster
- Bold Contrasts: Smoked cheeses, pepper jack, blue cheese
- Artisanal Upgrades: Aged gouda, cave-aged cheddar, manchego
Accompaniment Options:
- Spreads: Stone-ground mustard, fig preserves, pepper jelly, apple butter
- Fruits: Grapes, apple slices, dried cherries, fresh berries
- Savory Additions: Pickled vegetables, olives, marinated artichokes
- Breads/Crackers: Baguette slices, artisanal crackers, pretzel crisps
Execution
Creating the Ultimate Summer Sausage and Cheese Board:
- Select a wooden board, slate plate, or marble surface as your foundation
- Begin by placing small bowls for mustard, jam, or other condiments
- Slice summer sausage in three ways for visual interest:
- Thin rounds (1/8 inch) for immediate enjoyment
- Thicker bias-cut pieces (1/4 inch) for heartier bites
- A partially sliced section with the knife included for self-service
- Arrange cheeses in different presentations:
- Cube the cheddar for easy picking
- Slice the gouda into triangles
- Leave the havarti in a wedge with a cheese knife
- Add crackers in fan or stack arrangements
- Fill empty spaces with fresh and dried fruits, nuts, and herbs
- Include small cheese knives and cocktail picks for serving
Summer Sausage Preparation Techniques:
- For serving on a board:
- Remove any casing if it’s tough or waxy
- Slice on a bias for larger pieces or straight across for rounds
- Allow to come to room temperature 20-30 minutes before serving
- For cooking applications:
- Crisp in a hot skillet to enhance flavor and texture
- Dice finely for adding to hot dishes like scrambled eggs or mac and cheese
- Cut into chunks for adding to soups, stews, or potato dishes
Quick Appetizer Ideas:
- Summer Sausage Pinwheels:
- Spread softened cream cheese on a flour tortilla
- Layer thin slices of summer sausage and shredded cheddar
- Roll tightly, chill for 30 minutes, then slice into pinwheels
- Stuffed Mushrooms:
- Mix finely diced summer sausage with herbed cream cheese
- Fill mushroom caps and top with shredded cheese
- Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden
- Hot Cheese and Sausage Dip:
- Combine 8 oz cream cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar, and 1/2 cup diced summer sausage
- Add 2 tablespoons sour cream and 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Heat in microwave or small slow cooker until bubbly
- Serve with crackers or bread cubes
Additional Tips
Pairing Principles:
- Match intensity: Pair stronger-flavored summer sausages with assertive cheeses
- Create contrast: Combine spicy sausage with creamy, mild cheese
- Consider texture: Pair firm summer sausage with both creamy and crumbly cheeses
- Think regionally: Combine foods from similar traditions (German sausage with Alpine cheeses)
- Remember the rule of three: A mild option, a medium option, and a bold option ensures something for everyone
Storage and Serving:
- Unopened summer sausage can be stored at room temperature until the manufacturer’s date
- Once opened, refrigerate and use within 3-4 weeks
- For best flavor, bring summer sausage and cheese to room temperature 30-60 minutes before serving
- When slicing, aim for consistent thickness—a sharp knife or meat slicer works best
- Store leftover cheese properly by wrapping in cheese paper or parchment, then loosely in plastic wrap
Beverage Pairings:
- Wine: Medium-bodied reds like Pinot Noir or Merlot complement most summer sausage
- Beer: Amber lagers, brown ales, or wheat beers offer balanced pairing
- Cider: Semi-dry apple or pear ciders provide refreshing contrast
- Non-alcoholic: Sparkling apple cider, kombucha, or unsweetened iced tea
- For spicier varieties: Off-dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer balance the heat
Elevated Presentation:
- Use fresh herbs as dividers and garnishes on your board
- Offer small knives for each cheese type
- Label unusual varieties with small cards or flags
- Provide separate serving utensils for each component
- Present on wooden boards or slate surfaces for rustic elegance
- Consider individual mini-boards for intimate gatherings
Conclusion
Summer sausage and cheese represent more than just a convenient snack—they embody a tradition of preserved foods that bring people together across seasons and occasions. From simple afternoon snacks to holiday entertainment, this versatile pairing offers endless possibilities for customization while maintaining its timeless appeal.
The key to creating memorable summer sausage and cheese experiences lies in quality ingredients, thoughtful pairings, and attractive presentation. By exploring different varieties of both components and understanding their complementary qualities, you can elevate this classic combination from ordinary to extraordinary.
For more inspiration on food pairings, check out our guide to creating the perfect charcuterie board or explore our complete collection of appetizer recipes.
How do you enjoy summer sausage and cheese? Do you have a favorite pairing or serving method? Share your traditions in the comments below!
Related Article: Simple Old Folks Sausage
This guide is based on culinary traditions and experience with various summer sausage and cheese pairings.