Best Summer Sausages of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Summer sausages are a popular type of cured sausage enjoyed during the summer months. Typically made from beef, pork or a combination of both, summer sausages are seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, and then smoked to perfection. They are versatile and can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or as an ingredient in a variety of dishes. Summer sausages have a firm texture and a savory flavor that pairs well with cheese, crackers, and wine. They are perfect for picnics, camping trips, or any outdoor gathering. Whether sliced thin or thick, summer sausages are a delicious addition to any charcuterie board.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Old Wisconsin Original Summer Sausage Cover #TOP 1
Old Wisconsin Original Summer Sausage
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Hickory Farms Farmhouse Summer Sausage 3-Pack Cover #TOP 2
Hickory Farms Farmhouse Summer Sausage 3-Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Pearson Ranch Exotic Game Meat Variety Pack Cover #TOP 3
Pearson Ranch Exotic Game Meat Variety Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Summer Sausages

Old Wisconsin Original Summer Sausage

1020
8 Count (Pack of 1)
Old Wisconsin Original Summer Sausage Cover
Old Wisconsin Premium Summer Sausage, 100% Natural Meat, Charcuterie, Ready to Eat, High Protein, Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free, Original Flavor, 8 Ounce

OLD WISCONSIN Original Summer Sausage is a delicious, high-protein snack made with the finest ingredients and slow-smoked over real hardwood fires. It's a great keto snack with zero carbs and no MSG added, and is perfect for holidays, birthdays, barbecues, and get-togethers. Enjoy the unique, savory taste of OLD WISCONSIN summer sausages with no binders, fillers, or extenders.

What We Like
Made with all meat and no MSG added
High protein snack with zero carbs
Smoked over real hardwood fires
No binders, fillers, or extenders
Gluten free
#TOP 2

Hickory Farms Farmhouse Summer Sausage 3-Pack

7oz - 3 Pack
Hickory Farms Farmhouse Summer Sausage 3-Pack Cover
Hickory Farms Farmhouse Summer Sausage 3-Pack, 7 ounces each | Great for Snacking, Entertaining, Charcuterie, Ready to Eat, High Protein, Low Carb, Premium Pork and Beef

The Hickory Farms Summer Sausage is a delicious blend of premium pork and beef, expertly smoked and seasoned with natural spices. This gluten-free option is ideal for those with special dietary needs, making it a great choice for high-protein and keto diets. As a shelf-stable product, it’s perfect for snacking on the go, whether you’re camping or hiking. Enjoy it as part of a charcuterie board or include it in gift baskets for friends and family. With its ready-to-eat convenience, it’s a gourmet snack that elevates any occasion.

What We Like
High-quality meat blend
Gluten-free option
Convenient for outdoor activities
Ideal for charcuterie
#TOP 3

Pearson Ranch Exotic Game Meat Variety Pack

3 Piece Assortment
Pearson Ranch Exotic Game Meat Variety Pack Cover
PEARSON RANCH SINCE 1959 Game Meat Summer Sausage Variety Pack of 3 Elk, Buffalo, Venison, Exotic Meat, Summer Sausage Pack, Gluten-Free, MSG-Free

Pearson Ranch Game Meat Hickory Smoked Summer Sausage Variety Pack is a great way to experience exotic game meats. This pack includes Elk (Made with added Pork) 7oz, Buffalo (Made with added Pork) 6oz, and Venison (Made with added Pork) 7oz. All of these sausages are gluten-free, MSG-free, and contain no nitrites. Customers have noted that the sausages are flavorful, but the size may be smaller than expected. Some customers have also noted that the skin and rine is thick and hard, and can be difficult to remove.

What We Like
Gluten-free, MSG-free, and contain no nitrites
Flavorful
Unique gift idea
#TOP 4

Klement's Original Summer Sausage

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Klement's Original Summer Sausage Cover
Klement's Original Summer Sausage, Hardwood Smoked 2 Pounds

Klement's Original Summer Sausage is a naturally hardwood smoked sausage from Wisconsin. It contains no MSG and is gluten free. Each pack contains 2 full pounds of sausage. It is a great addition to any meal or snack.

What We Like
Naturally Hardwood Smoked
No MSG
Gluten Free
2 full pounds
#TOP 5

Johnsonville Jalapeno Cheddar Summer Sausage 1/20oz

20 ounce
Johnsonville Jalapeno Cheddar Summer Sausage 1/20oz Cover
Johnsonville Jalapeno Cheddar Summer Sausage 1/20oz, Good Source of Protein, Great for Charcuterie and Cheese Boards

Johnsonville Jalapeno Sausage is a premium summer sausage made with 100% quality meats and smoked over real hardwood. Perfect for gatherings, it's an ideal addition to holiday spreads and charcuterie boards. Get creative by using it in various dishes like salads, Bloody Marys, or even on pizzas. With Johnsonville Jalapeno Sausage, there are endless possibilities to elevate your snacks and meals.

What We Like
Premium Quality Meats
Perfect for Gatherings
Versatile Usage
#TOP 6

Hickory Farms Party-Size Signature Beef Summer Sausage, 26 oz

S-PL-1895
Hickory Farms Party-Size Signature Beef Summer Sausage, 26 oz Cover
Hickory Farms Party-Size Signature Beef Summer Sausage, 26 ounces | Great for Snacking, Gifts, Entertaining, Charcuterie, Ready to Eat, High Protein, Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free, 100% Beef

Hickory Farms Party-Size Signature Beef Summer Sausage is a crowd-pleasing and award-winning meat selection made with 100% premium North American beef, hickory smoke, mustard seed, and pepper. It's gluten-free, high-protein, and keto-friendly, making it perfect for snacking, entertaining, and outdoor activities. Ideal for pairing with cheeses, mustards, and crackers, this 26 oz sausage is America's favorite summer sausage and is perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party, gifting, or just snacking at home.

What We Like
Award-winning taste
Gluten-free, high-protein, and keto-friendly
Great for snacking, entertaining, and outdoor activities
#TOP 7

Johnsonville Summer Sausages Gift Pack

12 ounce
Johnsonville Summer Sausages Gift Pack Cover
Johnsonville Original, Beef, Jalapeno Cheddar Summer Sausages 3/12oz. Gift Pack, Good Source of Protein, Great on Charcuterie and Cheese Boards, Holiday Gifting

Johnsonville Summer Sausages Gift Pack is the perfect addition to any gathering. Made with 100% premium cuts of meat and smoked over real hardwood, these sausages are full of flavor. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just want a delicious snack, Johnsonville Summer Sausages are a crowd pleaser. Slice them up and serve with your favorite cheeses, pickled items, and mustards for a charcuterie spread that will impress your guests. But don't limit yourself to just appetizers, get creative with these sausages! Dice them up and add them to salads, fry them with eggs for breakfast, or even put them on a pizza. With Johnsonville Summer Sausages, the possibilities are endless. And when you buy these sausages, you're buying straight from the source: The Johnsonville Marketplace in Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin. Enjoy the authentic taste and quality of Johnsonville!

What We Like
Premium cuts of meat
No fillers or artificial ingredients
Versatile and creative uses
#TOP 8

Hickory Farms Beef Summer Sausage 7oz (3 Pack)

AO19322Z
7oz - 3 Pack
Hickory Farms Beef Summer Sausage 7oz (3 Pack) Cover
Hickory Farms Signature Beef Summer Sausage 7oz (3 Pack)

The Hickory Farms Summer Sausage is a delightful snack option that combines beef and pork, expertly seasoned and smoked for rich flavor. It's gluten-free, making it suitable for anyone on a high-protein or keto diet, allowing you to enjoy a tasty treat without worry. This sausage is ready to eat and does not require refrigeration before opening, making it perfect for camping trips or outdoor activities. Plus, its versatility means you can enjoy it as a standalone snack, part of a charcuterie board, or even in your favorite recipes.

What We Like
Gluten-free option
Convenient for outdoor activities
Ready to eat
Versatile snack
#TOP 9

Klement's Garlic Summer Sausage

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Klement's Garlic Summer Sausage Cover
Klement's Summer Sausage, Garlic, 12 Ounce

Klement's Garlic Sausage is a delicious choice for any gathering, offering a rich, hardwood-smoked flavor that elevates your snack game. With no added MSG, you can enjoy this sausage guilt-free, knowing it's a healthier option. Being gluten-free means it's safe for those with dietary restrictions, making it perfect for diverse groups. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or a winter holiday party, this handcrafted sausage is sure to impress your guests and enhance any event throughout the year.

What We Like
Natural hardwood smoked flavor
No MSG for healthier option
Gluten-free for dietary needs
Versatile for any occasion
#TOP 10

Old Wisconsin Premium Summer Sausage, 100% Natural Meat

1315
1 Pound (Pack of 1)
Old Wisconsin Premium Summer Sausage, 100% Natural Meat Cover
Old Wisconsin Premium Summer Sausage, 100% Natural Meat, Charcuterie, Ready to Eat, High Protein, Low Carb, Keto, Gluten Free, Beef Flavor, 16 Ounce

Enjoy the delicious OLD WISCONSIN Beef Summer Sausage made from high-quality meat and spices. It contains no MSG, is gluten-free, and high in protein. Perfect as a snack or as an ingredient in your favorite recipes, this summer sausage is made in the USA and requires no refrigeration, making it perfect for outdoor activities like camping and hiking.

What We Like
100% natural meat, no MSG, gluten-free, and high in protein
Great as a snack or in recipes, perfect for outdoor activities
Made in the USA
Buying Guide Image

Learn More About Purchasing the Summer Sausages

Choosing the Best Summer Sausage for Your Needs

Summer sausage is a type of sausage that is made with a blend of lean meats and seasonings, and is typically served cold. It is a popular snack food, and is often enjoyed on picnics, camping trips, and other outdoor events.

When choosing a summer sausage, there are a few key factors to consider.

Consider the Type of Meat Used

Summer sausage is typically made with a blend of meats, such as beef, pork, and venison. Some types of summer sausage are made with 100% beef, while others may include a mix of different meats.

When choosing a summer sausage, consider the type of meat that is used. If you are looking for a leaner option, choose a summer sausage that is made with 100% beef or a blend of lean meats. If you are looking for a more flavorful option, choose a summer sausage that is made with a blend of different meats.

Consider the Seasonings and Flavorings

Summer sausage is seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, black pepper, and coriander. Some types of summer sausage are flavored with additional ingredients, such as jalapeno peppers or cheese.

When choosing a summer sausage, consider the seasonings and flavorings that are used. If you are looking for a milder option, choose a summer sausage that is lightly seasoned with herbs and spices. If you are looking for a bolder flavor, choose a summer sausage that is flavored with additional ingredients, such as jalapeno peppers or cheese.

Consider the Size and Packaging

Summer sausage is available in a variety of sizes, from small snack-sized sausages to large party-sized sausages. It is also available in different packaging options, such as vacuum-sealed packages or cans.

When choosing a summer sausage, consider the size and packaging that will best meet your needs. If you are planning to serve a large group of people, choose a large party-sized summer sausage. If you are looking for a portable snack, choose a smaller summer sausage that is packaged in a vacuum-sealed package or a can.

Conclusion

Summer sausage is a delicious and convenient snack food that is perfect for outdoor events. When choosing a summer sausage, consider the type of meat that is used, the seasonings and flavorings, and the size and packaging. By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose the best summer sausage for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What's the difference between summer sausage and sausage?

The main difference between summer sausage and regular sausage is the moisture content. Summer sausage is a semi-dry sausage, losing about 15% of its original moisture during aging. On the other hand, regular sausage, like salami, is a dry sausage that loses around 25% of its original moisture during aging.

2. Why is summer sausage so good?

Summer sausage is highly regarded for its tangy flavor. This is due to its fermentation process, which produces a low pH that inhibits bacterial growth. As a result, summer sausage doesn't require refrigeration and has a longer shelf life. It is particularly well-suited for consumption during the hot summer months.

3. Are there different types of summer sausage?

Yes, there are various types of summer sausages available. Popular examples include salami, pepperoni, and chorizo. However, traditional German-style summer sausage is softer and less dry compared to other types of meats.

4. Can I eat summer sausage raw?

Summer sausage does not require cooking before consumption. It is a cured meat that undergoes a cooking process during the curing phase, making it safe to eat without further cooking.

5. Is summer sausage healthy to eat?

While summer sausage can provide a good amount of protein, it is not considered a healthy food choice. It contains high levels of salt and is primarily composed of meat. Consuming excessive amounts of salt and meat can be detrimental to heart health.

Editor's Notes

During our summer sausage research, we found 24 summer sausage products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 120,979 customer reviews through our big data system to write the summer sausages list. We found that most customers choose summer sausages with an average price of $21.77.

The summer sausages are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of summer sausages, including Old Wisconsin, Hickory Farms, PEARSON RANCH SINCE 1959, Klement's, Johnsonville. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!