27+ Delicious Summer Sausage Appetizer Recipes for Your Next BBQ

Summer is the perfect time to host gatherings with family and friends, and no celebration is complete without a variety of tasty appetizers.

One ingredient that brings savory, smoky flavors to any dish is summer sausage.

Whether you’re grilling, baking, or serving something cold and refreshing, summer sausage can elevate your appetizer spread in so many delicious ways.

In this article, we’ve rounded up over 27+ summer sausage appetizer recipes that will impress your guests and leave everyone asking for more.

From bite-sized snacks to hearty dips and savory spreads, there’s something for every occasion.

Perfect for barbecues, picnics, holiday parties, or casual get-togethers, these recipes are easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Let’s dive into these mouthwatering creations!

27+ Delicious Summer Sausage Appetizer Recipes for Your Next BBQ

Summer sausage is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that can elevate any appetizer table.

Whether you’re grilling on the patio, preparing for a casual get-together, or hosting a festive event, these 27+ summer sausage appetizer recipes are sure to satisfy your guests’ cravings and leave a lasting impression.

From savory pinwheels and sliders to refreshing salads and zesty dips, there’s no shortage of creative ways to use summer sausage in your next dish.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and get ready to create some unforgettable summer appetizers.

Summer Sausage & Melon Skewers with Mint Drizzle

A refreshing and savory appetizer, these skewers combine the rich, smoky flavor of summer sausage with the juicy sweetness of melon.

Balanced with creamy mozzarella and a touch of mint, they’re the perfect light bite for poolside parties or casual backyard gatherings. Easy to assemble and bursting with summer colors, this appetizer brings a playful twist to charcuterie.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 cup cantaloupe, balled or cubed
• 1 cup honeydew, balled or cubed
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Skewers (wooden or bamboo)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, lemon juice, and chopped mint to create the mint drizzle. Set aside.
2. On each skewer, thread one piece of summer sausage, a mozzarella ball, a piece of cantaloupe, another sausage cube, and a piece of honeydew.
3. Arrange the skewers on a serving platter.
4. Just before serving, lightly drizzle the mint sauce over the skewers.

These skewers strike the perfect balance between sweet, salty, and tangy.

The mint drizzle adds a cooling freshness, making this appetizer a go-to for hot summer days when you want something that feels indulgent but not heavy.

Summer Sausage Flatbread with Tomato & Basil

This crispy flatbread is topped with slices of summer sausage, juicy heirloom tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil.

A lightly garlicky cream cheese base brings it all together, creating a rustic appetizer that pairs wonderfully with cold white wine or a summery spritzer. Ideal for patio parties or light dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 flatbread or naan
• 3 oz summer sausage, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix cream cheese with garlic and a pinch of salt. Spread over the flatbread evenly.
3. Top with sliced summer sausage and halved cherry tomatoes.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 8–10 minutes or until the flatbread is crispy and the tomatoes are slightly roasted.
5. Remove from the oven and top with fresh basil leaves before slicing.

Crisp, savory, and full of garden-fresh flavors, this flatbread is a versatile appetizer that captures the taste of summer in every bite.

It’s just the right amount of indulgent without being overly filling, making it perfect to share before a main course.

Summer Sausage-Stuffed Mini Peppers

These colorful mini peppers are stuffed with a creamy cheese and summer sausage filling, then baked until warm and bubbly.

With a blend of sharp cheddar, tangy cream cheese, and bold sausage flavor, they’re as satisfying as they are festive. Their bite-size appeal makes them ideal for picnics, potlucks, or appetizers on the grill.

Ingredients:

• 10–12 mini sweet peppers, halved and deseeded
• 4 oz summer sausage, finely diced
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, summer sausage, green onion, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Spoon the filling into each mini pepper half.
4. Arrange the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Let cool slightly before serving.

These stuffed mini peppers deliver a mouthful of bold, creamy flavor with every bite.

The contrast of the crisp pepper shell and melty filling makes them an irresistible snack that disappears fast—so be sure to make extra!

Summer Sausage & Pickle Bites with Spicy Mustard Dip

These no-cook, tangy-salty bites are perfect for effortless entertaining.

Combining smoky summer sausage, crisp dill pickles, and sharp cheddar cheese on a toothpick, they’re quick to prepare and full of flavor. A spicy mustard dip on the side adds a zippy kick that balances the richness of the sausage beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, sliced into thick coins
• 1 cup dill pickle slices
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
• Toothpicks

For the Dip:

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix mustard, honey, and hot sauce. Set aside as the dipping sauce.
2. Assemble each bite by stacking a pickle slice and a cheddar cube on a summer sausage coin; secure with a toothpick.
3. Arrange on a serving platter and serve with the spicy mustard dip on the side.

This appetizer is bold, tangy, and satisfying — a crowd-pleaser for casual barbecues or game nights.

The best part? No cooking required, and cleanup is a breeze.

Grilled Summer Sausage & Pineapple Skewers

With smoky sausage, sweet caramelized pineapple, and a hint of spice, these grilled skewers bring the tropical heat to your summer table.

A brush of chili-lime glaze enhances every bite, making them a memorable and mouthwatering starter at any cookout.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, cut into thick half-moons
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Skewers

For the Glaze:

• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 tsp chili powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, and chili powder.
3. Thread sausage, pineapple, and bell pepper alternately onto skewers.
4. Brush with olive oil and grill for 6–8 minutes, turning and brushing with the chili-lime glaze halfway through.
5. Serve warm with extra glaze on the side if desired.

These grilled skewers are smoky, juicy, and just a little spicy — a flavor combination that screams summer.

Whether you’re grilling poolside or tailgating, they’re a hit straight off the skewer.

Summer Sausage & Herb Cream Cheese Cucumber Rounds

Light, crunchy, and refreshing, these cucumber rounds are topped with a creamy herb spread and a slice of summer sausage for a simple yet elegant appetizer.

They offer the perfect balance of fresh and savory, making them ideal for warm weather events like brunches, bridal showers, or garden parties.

Ingredients:

• 1 large English cucumber, sliced into thick rounds
• 6 oz summer sausage, sliced thinly
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tbsp chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, dill, chives, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Spread about a teaspoon of herb cream cheese on each cucumber slice.
3. Top each with a slice of summer sausage.
4. Garnish with a tiny sprig of dill or a crack of black pepper if desired.

These cucumber bites are crisp, flavorful, and visually appealing.

They deliver a satisfying bite without feeling heavy, making them a refreshing option for hot summer days when you want something tasty but light.

Summer Sausage Crostini with Garlic & Herb Butter

A twist on the classic crostini, these bites feature crunchy toasted baguette slices topped with a rich garlic and herb butter, a slice of smoky summer sausage, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Perfect for a stylish appetizer or a light snack, they’re great for serving at a cocktail party or as a start to a summer dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 8 oz summer sausage, sliced thinly
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
2. Toast the baguette slices for about 5–7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic butter generously on each toasted crostini.
5. Top each slice with a thin piece of summer sausage and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Return the crostini to the oven for another 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese begins to melt.

These crostini offer the perfect balance of crisp and creamy, with the bold flavor of sausage and garlic rounding out every bite.

They’re a wonderful choice for any occasion where you want something that’s quick to prepare but looks and tastes like a gourmet treat.

Summer Sausage & Roasted Red Pepper Queso Dip

A creamy, cheesy dip that combines the rich flavor of summer sausage with the sweetness of roasted red peppers, this queso dip is ideal for dipping tortilla chips, veggies, or crusty bread.

With a touch of spice and smokiness from the sausage, it’s a crowd-pleasing favorite for summer gatherings, game days, or barbecues.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, diced
• 1 jar (12 oz) roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced summer sausage until browned and crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped roasted red peppers and cook for 2 minutes, allowing them to warm up and caramelize slightly.
3. Lower the heat and add cream cheese, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese to the pan. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the dip is smooth.
4. Add cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, adjusting seasoning as desired.
5. Stir in the cooked sausage and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Serve the dip warm with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies.

This queso dip is rich, creamy, and full of smoky, cheesy goodness.

With the heat from the sausage and the sweetness of roasted red peppers, it’s the ultimate comfort food and a sure hit for any party.

Summer Sausage Salad Cups with Avocado & Cilantro

These individual salad cups are the perfect portable appetizer for picnics or outdoor events. Combining tender summer sausage with creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing, they’re light, flavorful, and incredibly refreshing.

These salad cups are a great way to add a healthy yet delicious element to your summer spread.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, cut into thin matchsticks or small cubes
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Small lettuce cups or endive leaves for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine summer sausage, avocado, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and red onion.
2. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the salad mixture into small lettuce cups or endive leaves for a crisp, refreshing base.
4. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

These salad cups are vibrant, fresh, and perfect for summer entertaining.

The combination of creamy avocado and savory sausage is refreshing and satisfying, and the zesty lime dressing ties it all together. They make for a light yet satisfying appetizer that won’t weigh you down, perfect for a sunny day.

Summer Sausage and Brie Bites with Fig Jam

This elegant appetizer features creamy, melty brie paired with smoky summer sausage and a dollop of sweet fig jam. Served on toasted baguette rounds, these bites are perfect for a sophisticated summer gathering or as an appetizer before a dinner party.

The rich, savory sausage combined with the sweet fig jam creates a perfect contrast in flavor.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, sliced thinly
• 1 wheel of brie cheese, sliced into small pieces
• 1/4 cup fig jam
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes, until golden brown.
2. Spread a small amount of fig jam on each toasted baguette slice.
3. Top with a slice of brie cheese and a piece of summer sausage.
4. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, just until the brie begins to melt.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

These brie bites are luxurious and packed with flavor, combining the richness of brie with the sweetness of figs and the savory punch of summer sausage.

They’re perfect for impressing guests at a more formal event or as an elegant snack.

Summer Sausage Caprese Skewers

These skewers are a fun and fresh twist on the classic caprese salad, swapping in summer sausage for the traditional mozzarella balls.

With cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, these bite-sized appetizers are perfect for hot summer days when you want something light and easy to prepare but full of vibrant flavor.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, sliced into thick rounds
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• Skewers or toothpicks

Instructions:

1. On each skewer, alternate threading a piece of summer sausage, a cherry tomato, and a fresh basil leaf.
2. Arrange the skewers on a platter and drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.

These caprese skewers are an ideal choice for a casual get-together or a light appetizer at a barbecue.

The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and smoky sausage offers a fresh, satisfying bite that’s perfect for the season.

Summer Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are packed with flavor and make a fantastic appetizer for any summer gathering.

The filling, made with creamy cheese, savory sausage, and a blend of herbs, is baked to golden perfection, making each bite a delightful combination of rich and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

• 12 large button mushrooms, stems removed
• 8 oz summer sausage, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange mushroom caps on a baking sheet.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and the chopped summer sausage.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage and cheese mixture.
4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These stuffed mushrooms are a hearty, flavorful appetizer that will impress guests at any gathering.

The creamy filling with the smoky summer sausage makes each bite satisfying while still feeling light enough for summer. They’re a perfect addition to your appetizer spread!

Summer Sausage and Cheese Sliders

These mini sliders are perfect for serving a crowd, combining the smoky flavor of summer sausage with melted cheese and a savory mustard spread.

Easy to assemble and bake, these sliders are ideal for casual get-togethers or a summer picnic, offering a fun twist on the classic sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 12 slider buns
• 8 oz summer sausage, sliced
• 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and honey to make the sauce.
3. Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom halves of the buns.
4. Layer with slices of summer sausage and top with half a slice of cheddar cheese on each bun.
5. Place the top buns over the cheese, and brush the tops with melted butter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the sliders are golden and the cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These sliders are savory and satisfying, with the perfect balance of creamy cheese, smoky sausage, and tangy mustard sauce.

They’re easy to make in batches and perfect for sharing, making them a great choice for any summer gathering.

Summer Sausage, Spinach, and Artichoke Dip

A creamy, decadent dip that’s perfect for entertaining, this version of spinach and artichoke dip features hearty chunks of summer sausage for extra flavor and texture.

Served warm with pita chips or fresh veggies, this dip is guaranteed to be a hit at your next summer barbecue or get-together.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, diced
• 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
• 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced summer sausage until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, Parmesan, mozzarella, spinach, artichokes, garlic, and cooked summer sausage.
3. Season with salt and pepper, then stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly.
5. Serve warm with pita chips, crackers, or sliced vegetables for dipping.

This spin on a classic spinach and artichoke dip adds a smoky, savory twist with the addition of summer sausage.

It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for a cozy summer appetizer.

Summer Sausage and Avocado Toasts

For a light yet satisfying appetizer, these avocado toasts with smoky summer sausage are a perfect choice.

The creamy avocado provides a rich base, while the summer sausage adds savory depth, making this bite-sized treat an ideal starter or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 8 oz summer sausage, thinly sliced
• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
2. In a small bowl, mash the avocados with lime juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Spread a generous amount of the avocado mixture on each toasted baguette slice.
4. Top with a slice of summer sausage and garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve immediately as a fresh, savory appetizer.

These toasts are a delicious blend of creamy, smoky, and tangy flavors, offering a light yet satisfying bite that’s perfect for summer gatherings.

The addition of summer sausage gives this simple dish an extra savory kick, making it a standout appetizer.

Summer Sausage and Apple Slaw Wraps

A fresh and crunchy appetizer, these wraps combine the sweetness of apple slaw with the smoky richness of summer sausage, all wrapped up in a crisp lettuce leaf.

Perfect for those seeking a light yet flavorful bite, these wraps are great for picnics or outdoor events where finger foods are a must.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, thinly sliced
• 1 large apple, julienned
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 large lettuce leaves (such as butter lettuce or Romaine)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the julienned apple, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss until well mixed.
2. Lay out the lettuce leaves on a clean surface.
3. Place a few slices of summer sausage in the center of each leaf, followed by a generous spoonful of the apple slaw mixture.
4. Roll the lettuce leaf tightly around the filling, securing with toothpicks if necessary.

These wraps are a refreshing combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors.

The crisp texture of the apple slaw pairs beautifully with the savory sausage, making it a fun and healthy appetizer that’s perfect for summer.

Summer Sausage and Sweet Potato Bites

Sweet potatoes and summer sausage come together in this hearty and nutritious appetizer, topped with a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh chives.

Perfect for fall and winter gatherings, these bites offer a satisfying balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 oz summer sausage, diced
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. Roast the sweet potatoes for 20–25 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized, turning halfway through.
3. While the potatoes roast, cook the diced summer sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until browned and crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. To assemble, place a roasted sweet potato cube on each serving plate, top with a spoonful of cooked sausage, and add a dollop of Greek yogurt. Garnish with chopped chives.

These sweet potato bites are warm, savory, and rich in flavor.

The combination of tender sweet potatoes and crispy summer sausage with creamy Greek yogurt makes them a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s both comforting and light.

Summer Sausage Stuffed Avocados

These stuffed avocados are a fun and easy-to-make appetizer that pairs creamy avocado with smoky summer sausage and a zesty lime dressing.

They make a light but satisfying appetizer perfect for a summer gathering or as a side dish to any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
• 8 oz summer sausage, diced
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced summer sausage for about 5–7 minutes, until browned and crispy. Set aside to cool.
2. Scoop a small amount of flesh out of each avocado half to create more space for the filling.
3. In a small bowl, combine the cooked sausage, diced tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the mixture into the avocado halves, packing it gently.
5. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of extra cilantro for garnish.

These stuffed avocados offer a creamy and smoky flavor profile, with the refreshing crunch of tomatoes and the zesty lime adding brightness.

The savory summer sausage is the perfect complement to the creamy avocado, creating a satisfying and flavorful appetizer that feels light and fresh.

Summer Sausage and Cheddar Biscuit Bites

These fluffy cheddar biscuits are filled with smoky summer sausage and melted cheese, making them the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any occasion.

Warm, cheesy, and comforting, these biscuit bites are ideal for brunches, game days, or casual get-togethers with friends and family.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups biscuit mix
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 oz summer sausage, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped summer sausage, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Spoon the dough into the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
5. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the biscuit bites are golden brown and cooked through.
6. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

These biscuit bites are the perfect mix of cheesy, savory, and soft, with the smoky summer sausage adding a delicious depth of flavor.

They are sure to be a hit at any party or as a snack on a lazy afternoon.

Summer Sausage and Zucchini Fritters

These crispy fritters combine shredded zucchini, smoky summer sausage, and a blend of seasonings, making for a savory and satisfying appetizer.

Perfect for summer, these fritters are light yet packed with flavor, and they pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce for an added kick.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium zucchini, grated
• 8 oz summer sausage, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for frying

For the Dipping Sauce:

• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
2. In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, chopped summer sausage, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop spoonfuls of the fritter mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon.
4. Fry for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients for the dipping sauce, stirring until smooth.
6. Serve the fritters warm with the dipping sauce on the side.

These fritters are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, with the smoky summer sausage adding a flavorful punch.

They’re perfect for serving as an appetizer at a summer BBQ or as a tasty snack with a tangy dip.

Summer Sausage, Pear, and Arugula Salad

This refreshing and light salad combines the sweetness of ripe pears with peppery arugula, smoky summer sausage, and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

It’s an elegant and flavorful appetizer or light side dish that brings together a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, thinly sliced
• 2 ripe pears, thinly sliced
• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the arugula, sliced pears, summer sausage, and toasted walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese over the top, if desired.
5. Serve immediately as a light appetizer or side salad.

This salad is a beautiful blend of sweet, savory, and slightly bitter flavors, with the combination of pear, arugula, and summer sausage offering a satisfying contrast in texture.

The tangy vinaigrette brings everything together, making it an ideal dish for warm-weather meals.

Summer Sausage and Cream Cheese Pinwheels

These easy-to-make pinwheels combine creamy, tangy cream cheese with smoky summer sausage and fresh herbs, all rolled up in a soft tortilla.

Perfect for a quick appetizer, they’re great for parties, picnics, or even as an afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, sliced thin
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 4 large flour tortillas
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, parsley, green onions, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on each.
3. Layer the sliced summer sausage evenly over the cream cheese mixture.
4. Roll the tortillas tightly and slice into 1-inch pinwheels.
5. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled.

These pinwheels are creamy, smoky, and full of flavor.

The combination of rich cream cheese and fresh herbs paired with the savory summer sausage makes them an irresistible appetizer. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time and are easy to serve to a crowd.

Summer Sausage and Mango Salsa Nachos

A delicious fusion of sweet, spicy, and smoky, this nacho dish is topped with summer sausage and a homemade mango salsa.

The fresh, zesty salsa brings a burst of flavor to the crispy chips, making these nachos a perfect appetizer for any casual summer gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz summer sausage, diced
• 1 bag tortilla chips
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced mango
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño, diced
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the tortilla chips in an even layer on a baking sheet.
2. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and diced summer sausage evenly over the chips.
3. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. In a bowl, combine the mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to make the mango salsa.
5. Once the nachos are baked, remove them from the oven and top with the fresh mango salsa.
6. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy!

These nachos are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory.

The summer sausage adds a nice smoky depth of flavor, while the fresh mango salsa gives a vibrant and tangy kick. These nachos are sure to be a crowd favorite at your next gathering.

Summer Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are a healthy and hearty appetizer, filled with a savory mix of summer sausage, spinach, and rice.

Topped with melted cheese, these peppers are both filling and flavorful, perfect for serving as a main dish or a substantial appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 8 oz summer sausage, crumbled
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bell peppers in a baking dish, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled summer sausage until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Stir in the cooked rice and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the bell peppers with the sausage, spinach, and rice mixture, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm.

These stuffed bell peppers are packed with smoky sausage, fresh spinach, and melted cheese, making them a satisfying and flavorful bite.

Perfect for serving as a hearty appetizer or a light main course, they’re sure to impress your guests.