Sausage And Cheese: The Perfect Pairing Guide

Sausages and cheese are a classic combination, but which type of cheese goes best with sausage? There are many options, and it depends on your personal preference. If you're making a summer sausage, it's best to stick to harder cheeses with less fat, as they won't melt as fast. Popular choices include cheddar, gouda, Monterrey Jack, pepper jack, provolone, and gouda. For a spicier option, try Pepper Jack, a semi-soft American cheese with habanero chillies, garlic, rosemary, and sweet peppers. If you're making a sausage sub, try using peppers, onions, and provolone.

Cheese and sausage platter combinations

Creating a cheese and sausage platter is a satisfying experience, and a great way to feed guests at a party or gathering. The best cheese and sausage combinations depend on personal preference, but there are some classic pairings that are sure to be a hit.

Cheese and Sausage Combinations

When selecting a cheese to go with sausage, it's a good idea to consider the properties of the sausage. Sausages are generally semi-dry and salty, so a creamier cheese with higher fat content can balance the meat's acidity. Smooth, semi-soft cheeses like Havarti, butterkäse, or Muenster are perfect, with a neutral flavour that lets the sausage's seasonings shine.

A sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese is also a good match, with nutty notes that complement the smoke and acidity of the sausage. For something a little different, try a spicy Pepper Jack, which is semi-soft with a memorable flavour and a high melting point. If you're after a strong flavour, smoked gouda pairs well with smoked meats and beer. Provolone is another good option, especially if you're making the sausage with pork. It is a semi-hard Italian cheese with salty undertones and hints of nuts.

Platter Presentation

When arranging your cheese and sausage platter, start by adding condiment and relish bowls to the platter. Next, place the cheese and fan out the slices. Then, add the sliced sausage, arranging it in a fish scale pattern. Finally, use crackers to fill in the empty spaces.

Extras

Don't forget to include some extras on your platter, like small dill pickles, pickled okra, and olives. These cut through the heaviness of the cheese and sausage, and add a pop of colour.

Drinks

To drink with your cheese and sausage platter, beer is the first choice. Any beer is a good match, but a crisp, German-style lager or pilsner is the best. Wine is also an option, and you can match the wine to the cheese you're serving. For example, a mild cheddar loves chardonnay, while sharp cheddar can handle big, dry cabernets and zinfandels.

Cheese to add to summer sausage

When it comes to choosing a cheese to pair with summer sausage, it's best to opt for a variety that will provide a contrast in texture and flavour. Summer sausage is semi-dry or semi-hard, salty, smoky, and tangy, so a creamy, semi-soft cheese with a neutral or nutty profile will complement it well. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Havarti

Havarti is a smooth, semi-soft cheese that pairs beautifully with summer sausage. Its creamy texture and neutral flavour profile allow the sausage's seasonings to shine through. It's a popular choice that's sure to impress.

Butterkäse

Butterkäse is another semi-soft cheese that goes well with summer sausage. It has a similarly creamy texture to Havarti, making it a great choice for creating a harmonious pairing.

Muenster

Muenster is a semi-soft cheese that is slightly more pungent than Havarti and Butterkäse but still has a relatively neutral flavour. Its creamy texture and mild taste make it an excellent choice to balance the tanginess of the summer sausage.

Sharp Cheddar

Cheddar is a versatile cheese that comes in mild, sharp, and extra-sharp varieties. When it comes to summer sausage, sharp cheddar is an ideal choice. Its nutty notes complement the smokiness of the sausage, creating a delightful flavour combination.

Gouda

Gouda is a semi-hard cheese that can be enjoyed in its regular or smoked form. Its smoky flavour pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats and beer, making it a fantastic option for summer sausage platters.

Provolone

Provolone is an Italian semi-hard cheese with salty undertones and hints of nuts. It pairs exceptionally well with summer sausage, especially if you're using pork. Opt for harder, higher-quality pieces, such as the deli version, for the best results.

Halloumi

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese made from goat and sheep milk. It has an incredibly high melting point, making it perfect for grilling alongside your summer sausage. While it may be more expensive, its unique flavour and texture make it worth the splurge.

Pepper Jack

If you're looking for a spicy twist, Pepper Jack is an excellent choice. This semi-soft cheese is derived from Monterey Jack and includes habanero chillies, garlic, rosemary, and sweet peppers. It has a memorable flavour with a soft, buttery finish, making it a delightful surprise for your taste buds.

When creating a summer sausage platter, feel free to experiment with different combinations of these cheeses to find your favourite pairing. You can also add crackers, pickled relishes, and a refreshing beverage like beer or wine to complete the perfect snack or appetiser for any gathering.

Cheese and sausage sandwiches

There are many types of cheese that go well with sausage, and the best choice depends on your personal preference. Here are some ideas for creating delicious cheese and sausage sandwiches:

Cheese and Sausage Sandwich Ingredients

When making a cheese and sausage sandwich, you can select from a variety of cheeses and sausages to create a flavourful combination. Here are some options for the ingredients:

Cheeses:

• Cheddar (mild, sharp, or extra sharp)
• Gouda (regular or smoked)
• Colby Jack
• Monterrey Jack
• Havarti
• Muenster
• Provolone
• Swiss
• Pepper Jack

Sausages:

• Italian sausage
• Summer sausage
• Salami
• Grilled sausage

Preparing the Sandwiches

To make your cheese and sausage sandwiches, you can follow these general steps:

• Select your favourite type of sausage and cook it according to your preferred method.
• Slice the sausage into thin pieces.
• Choose one or a combination of cheeses that complement the sausage. Grate or slice the cheese, depending on the type and texture.
• Gather your other desired sandwich ingredients, such as bread, condiments, vegetables, or seasonings.
• Assemble your sandwiches by layering the sausage, cheese, and any additional ingredients of your choice between slices of bread.
• If desired, butter the outside of the bread and toast the sandwiches in a pan or grill until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.

Recipe Ideas

Sausage and Pepper Chipotle Grilled Cheese:

• Sautee sliced hot Italian sausage, red and orange bell peppers, and onion.
• Grate gouda, chipotle cheddar, and your favourite melty deli cheese (such as American, Muenster, or Gruyere).
• Assemble the sandwich with the sausage, pepper, onion, and cheese mixture between slices of rye bread.
• Grill the sandwich until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.

Italian Sausage Subs:

• Bake Italian sausages in the oven and quarter them.
• Caramelise onions and bell peppers in a pan.
• Make a cheese sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, slowly adding milk, and then adding shredded Havarti and Cheddar cheeses.
• Build your subs by piling the sausage, onions, peppers, and cheese sauce on a roll or bun.

Tips for a Delicious Sandwich

• Experiment with different combinations of cheeses and sausages to find your favourite pairings.
• If you're using a softer cheese, consider grilling or toasting the sandwich to get a melted, gooey texture.
• Add condiments or seasonings to enhance the flavour, such as mustard, parsley, or chipotle chilli powder.
• Include vegetables like peppers, onions, or pickles to add a crunchy texture and fresh taste.

Cheese and sausage appetizers

Sausage and Cheese Balls

These easy-to-make sausage cheese balls are the perfect appetizer for your next party. They are packed full of savoury flavour and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

To make the sausage cheese balls, you will need pork sausage, biscuit/baking mix, cheddar cheese, onion, garlic powder, milk, black pepper, and parsley.

First, preheat your oven to around 350-375°F. Then, in a large bowl, mix the pork sausage, biscuit/baking mix, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onion, garlic powder, milk, and black pepper until they are thoroughly combined. You can do this by hand or use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.

Next, roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until browned. Once they are cooked, sprinkle them with parsley and serve.

Sausage-Cheddar Bites

These bite-sized appetizers with shredded cheddar cheese and breakfast sausage are a little spicy and totally addictive!

To make the sausage-cheddar bites, you will need all-purpose flour, baking powder, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, shredded cheddar cheese, bulk breakfast sausage, grated onion, and melted butter.

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cayenne, and black pepper. Add the shredded cheese and toss to coat it evenly with the flour mixture. Then, add the sausage, onion, and melted butter, and mix until everything is combined.

Using your hands, break off pieces of the mixture and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 1/2 inch apart. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through. Serve warm, and preferably as soon as they are baked.

Cheese and Sausage Platter

A cheese and sausage platter is a great, easy option for entertaining guests. It allows your guests to serve themselves and gives you time to enjoy the party too!

For the platter, you will need a variety of cheeses, such as cheddar, Colby Jack, and smoked gouda, as well as summer sausage, crackers, and pickled relishes.

To arrange the platter, first, add small bowls of relishes like small dill pickles, pickled okra, and olives to each end of a large platter. Next, place the sliced cheese towards the outer edges of the platter and fan out the slices. Then, find an opening for the summer sausage and arrange it in a fish-scale pattern. Finally, fill in the empty spaces with crackers.

Tips for the Perfect Sausage Balls

• Use a rimmed baking sheet to prevent any dripping grease from going into your oven.
• Use a wire rack on your sheet pan to help the bottom of the sausage cheese balls get crispier.
• Shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn't melt well.
• You can double the recipe and make more batches.
• Refrigerate any leftovers.

Sauces and Dips

Sausage balls go great with dipping sauces. Try honey mustard sauce, homemade BBQ sauce, bacon ranch dip, or fry sauce.

Variations

• Turkey breakfast sausage can be used for a lighter appetizer.
• Substitute all or half of the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or mild cheeses that melt well, such as pepper jack or parmesan.
• Add some spice with hot pork sausage or a little cayenne pepper, or use pepper jack cheese. You can also add minced jalapeño to the mixture.
• For a sweeter meatball, add 1/4 cup of maple syrup to the mixture and omit the onion and garlic powder.
• For an Italian twist, use sweet Italian sausage, pizza blend cheese, and marinara sauce for dipping.

Cheese and sausage on the grill

There are many types of cheese that go well with sausage, and the best option depends on your personal preference. However, here are some ideas for creating delicious "cheese and sausage on the grill" dishes.

Cheese and Sausage Platter

Cheese and sausage platters are perfect for entertaining or even just enjoying as a meal for one. When creating a cheese and sausage platter, it is recommended to include a variety of cheeses with different flavors and textures. For example, you could select three types of cheese, such as a creamy and neutral-flavored cheese like Havarti, a sharp Cheddar, and a smoked Gouda. The Havarti provides a creamy texture that balances the acidity of the sausage, while the sharp Cheddar and smoked Gouda add depth and smokiness to the dish.

When preparing the cheese platter, it is best to slice the cheese beforehand, as guests prefer convenience. You can arrange the cheese slices in a fan pattern, keeping them together in the shape of the original block. This makes for a beautiful presentation and helps guests identify the different cheeses.

In addition to the cheese, include grilled or summer sausage, which is a semi-dry sausage with a tangy flavor. You can also add other cured meats like salami or Italian soppressata. To complete the platter, add some mildly flavored crackers, such as stone-ground wheat crackers, toasted crackers, or saltines. For a refreshing touch, include some pickled relishes like small dill pickles, pickled okra, or olives.

Grilled Cheese and Sausage Sandwiches

If you're looking to take your cheese and sausage creation to the next level, try making grilled cheese sandwiches with sausage. You can experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or rye, and a variety of cheeses. Here are some ideas for grilled cheese and sausage sandwiches:

• Sweet Sausage Grilled Cheese: Start with sweet Italian sausage, grilled on both sides and split into links. Prepare sourdough bread slices by covering each slice with American cheese. Place the grilled sausage links on the cheese-covered bread, and top with more cheese. Butter the sandwiches and grill them on a pan until the bread is toasted to a dark golden brown.
• Sausage and Pepper Chipotle Grilled Cheese: This sandwich combines sliced hot Italian sausage, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a trio of cheeses: gouda, chipotle cheddar, and a melty deli cheese like American, Muenster, or Gruyere. Grill the sandwiches in a pan with butter until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
• Italian Sausage Sandwich: This recipe uses bulk Italian sausage (hot or mild), spaghetti sauce, sliced olives, red onion, sweet red pepper, and mozzarella cheese. After browning the sausage and stirring in the sauce and olives, divide the mixture among split rolls and top with onion, sweet peppers, and cheese slices. Wrap the sandwiches in foil and bake them in the oven for a warm and gooey treat.

So, the next time you're looking to grill some cheese and sausage, try out these mouth-watering combinations and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures!

Frequently asked questions