Best Smoker for Summer Sausage: Top Picks for Perfect Flavor

Nothing beats the rich, smoky flavor of homemade summer sausage, and the key to achieving that perfect taste lies in choosing the best smoker for summer sausage.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, the right smoker ensures even heat distribution, optimal smoke infusion, and the best texture. But with so many options—charcoal, electric, propane, and pellet smokers—it can be overwhelming to pick the right one.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to choose the best smoker for summer sausage, from fuel types and cooking capacity to ease of use and durability. We’ll also cover essential smoking techniques to help you get that signature tangy bite in every slice.

Top Summer Sausage Smokers

• Camp Chef SmokePro SG
• Bradley Smoker BS611
• Z GRILLS ZPG-450A
• Weber 18-Inch Smokey Mountain Cooker
• Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker
• Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker
• Traeger Renegade Pro
• Masterbuilt 20070122 Cold Smoking Kit
• Big Chief Electric Smoker

Camp Chef SmokePro SG Wood Pellet Grill Smoker

For those who want a versatile smoker that doubles as a pellet grill, the Camp Chef SmokePro SG is a top-tier choice. Its large cooking area provides plenty of space to smoke summer sausage for hours without drying it out.

The precise temperature control and built-in meat probe make it easy to monitor the cooking process without constantly lifting the lid and losing heat.

Designed for slow cooking, this smoker ensures rich, flavorful results with minimal effort. The wood pellet system infuses your sausage with a deep, smoky taste, making it a great option for backyard BBQ enthusiasts.

Pros

• Large cooking area for smoking multiple sausages at once
• Temperature sensors and a built-in meat probe for precise monitoring
• Wood pellet system enhances flavor with natural smokiness
• Versatile design functions as both a smoker and a grill

Cons

• Pellet consumption can be high for extended smoking sessions

This smoker is an excellent choice for those who love slow-cooked, flavorful meats. With its easy-to-use temperature control and built-in monitoring features, you can set it up and let it do the work while you enjoy your time with family and friends.

Bradley Smoker BS611 Electric Smoker

If you’re serious about smoking and want full control over every step of the process, the Bradley Smoker BS611 is a top contender. This electric smoker lets you customize smoke intensity, duration, and temperature, allowing you to craft the perfect summer sausage with minimal effort.

Its fully insulated stainless steel interior retains heat efficiently, while the magnetic door ensures that smoke stays where it should.

One standout feature is the automatic feed system, which loads up to nine hours of Bradley Flavor Bisquettes—eliminating the need for constant refills. Unlike traditional wood smokers, this system prevents ash buildup, ensuring a clean, pure smoky flavor.

Additionally, the smoker includes separate heating elements—one for smoke production and another for the oven—making it versatile enough to function as a hot smoker, cold smoker, or even a dehydrator.

Pros

• Automatic feed system allows for nine hours of uninterrupted smoking
• Dual heat elements enable hot smoking, cold smoking, and dehydration
• Stainless steel interior for durability and easy maintenance
• Magnetic door helps retain heat and smoke efficiently

Cons

• Customer service response times can be slow

For those who prioritize precision and versatility, this smoker is worth the investment. While it comes at a premium price and is on the heavier side, its advanced features and ability to produce flawless summer sausage make it a great addition to any serious home smoker’s setup.

Z GRILLS ZPG-450A Upgrade Grill & Smoker

If you’re looking for a reliable, user-friendly, and versatile smoker for making summer sausage, the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A is a top contender. This wood pellet smoker offers precise temperature control, making it one of the best smokers for summer sausage while also excelling at grilling, roasting, and baking.

One of the standout features is its PID temperature control system, which ensures steady heat for perfectly smoked summer sausages. You won’t have to constantly monitor the temperature—it does the work for you!

This smoker isn’t just for sausages. With its 6-in-1 design, you can use it for grilling, roasting, baking, searing, and BBQing, making it a fantastic all-around outdoor cooking tool.

Despite its compact and portable design, the smoker still offers a 450-square-inch cooking space, allowing you to smoke multiple sausages at once—perfect for small gatherings or family meals.

With its “set it and forget it” operation, even beginners can achieve professional-level results. Plus, its rust-resistant steel construction and high-temperature powder coating make cleaning a breeze.

The sturdy build ensures longevity, while its compact size and wheels make it easy to move around your backyard or take on camping trips.

Pros

• Strong steel construction with a durable powder coating
• 6-in-1 functionality for various cooking methods
• Portable and easy to move
• User-friendly, even for beginners
• Accurate temperature control for consistent results

Cons

• Limited cooking space (450 sq. inches) – better suited for small families
• Not ideal for serving large gatherings

If you’re looking for a compact yet powerful smoker that delivers delicious, perfectly smoked summer sausage, the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A is a great investment. Its precise temperature control, easy operation, and versatility make it one of the best smokers for summer sausage—especially for small families or casual backyard cooks.

Weber 18-Inch Smokey Mountain Cooker – Best Charcoal Smoker for Summer Sausage

For those who love the classic barbecue experience, the Weber 18-Inch Smokey Mountain Cooker is a top-notch charcoal smoker that delivers an authentic, restaurant-quality smokey flavor. Made entirely from durable steel with a porcelain-enameled finish, this smoker is designed to lock in heat and smoke for perfectly cooked summer sausages.

This smoker provides 481 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to fit an entire turkey and a whole ham at the same time. The plated steel cooking grates ensure even heat distribution, while adjustable dampers allow for precise temperature control.

Additionally, the built-in water pan helps maintain stable heat levels and prevents overheating, making it an excellent choice for low-and-slow cooking.

Pros

• Provides excellent tenderness and rich smokey flavor
• Large cooking capacity for multiple sausages or larger cuts of meat
• Adjustable dampers for precise heat control
• Sturdy steel construction with a rust-resistant finish
• Compact, vertical design saves space
• 10-year warranty on bowl, lid, and center ring

Cons

• The water pan can be difficult to clean and may block access to the charcoal chamber
• No clear water level indicator, requiring frequent checks

If you’re looking for a high-quality charcoal smoker that delivers bold, smoky flavors with every batch of summer sausage, the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is a fantastic investment. It’s sturdy, reliable, and backed by a long-term warranty, ensuring years of flavorful backyard smoking.

Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker – Best Electric Smoker for Beginners

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just getting started with smoking, the Masterbuilt MB20071117 Digital Electric Smoker is a user-friendly option that delivers professional-quality results. Since it runs on electricity, you won’t have to deal with propane or charcoal, making it a hassle-free choice for those who prefer convenience without compromising flavor.

This smoker features a built-in thermostat for efficient temperature control, ensuring even, consistent smoking. The spacious 30-inch interior provides ample room to cook up to six chickens, four racks of ribs, or two turkeys at once on its four sturdy smoking racks.

Digital controls make adjusting the temperature and cooking time effortless, while the fully insulated body locks in heat for perfect results every time.

Pros

• Easy-to-use digital controls for precise temperature and time settings
• Consistent smoking for a rich, authentic flavor
• Large cooking space suitable for a variety of meats
• Fully insulated body for even heat retention

Cons

• Heavier than some other electric models, making it less portable

If you’re looking for a straightforward, set-it-and-forget-it electric smoker with a generous cooking capacity, the Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is a solid choice. Its reliable performance and ease of use make it a great addition to any backyard barbecue setup.

Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker – Best Budget Electric Smoker

Char-Broil is a trusted name in the world of smokers, known for producing reliable and efficient smoking solutions. The Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker stays true to the brand’s reputation, offering a simple yet effective way to achieve perfectly smoked meals.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced smoker, this model makes preparing delicious smoky sausages easier than ever.

One of its standout features is its double-wall insulated construction, which helps retain heat and smoke for consistent cooking results. With 544 square inches of cooking space spread across three chrome-plated racks, this smoker provides ample room for smoking multiple sausages at once, making it ideal for small gatherings.

The front-mounted temperature gauge makes monitoring internal heat levels effortless, while the water pan ensures the meat stays juicy throughout the cooking process.

Cleaning is hassle-free thanks to the removable drip tray, which prevents spills and mess. However, the wood chip tray is smaller than other models, meaning you may need to refill it more often. Since the wood chip tray is inside the cabinet, opening the door to add more chips can lead to heat loss, slightly affecting cooking efficiency.

Pros

• Double-wall insulation prevents heat loss and ensures consistent smoking
• Large cooking capacity with three chrome-plated racks
• Water pan keeps food moist and flavorful
• Easy-to-clean drip tray for mess-free maintenance
• All parts (except electrical components) are dishwasher-safe

Cons

• Smaller wood chip tray requires frequent refilling
• Heat loss occurs when opening the door to add wood chips

For those seeking a budget-friendly, user-friendly electric smoker with reliable performance, the Char-Broil Analog Electric Smoker is a great option. Its solid construction, spacious cooking area, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for backyard smoking enthusiasts.

Traeger Grills TFB38TOD Renegade Pro Pellet Grill and Smoker

The Traeger Renegade Pro is an excellent choice for small families looking for a high-quality pellet grill. Though technically a 20-inch model, its barrel diameter matches that of larger 22-inch grills, offering ample cooking space without taking up too much room.

Equipped with a “pro” digital controller, this smoker provides precision temperature control, ensuring consistently smoked sausages and other meats. It includes two meat probes for monitoring temperatures and two trap doors for easy pellet cleanout and swapping. Its sturdy sawhorse-style legs add both stability and a sleek look.

Since this model runs on hardwood pellets, it delivers 100% natural hardwood flavor, enhancing the taste of everything from sausages to burgers, pork, salmon, prime rib, and even lamb. Compared to charcoal grills, it offers a more even cook while retaining moisture, making it a great choice for home smoking and grilling.

Additionally, it’s highly efficient in pellet consumption and produces minimal ash, reducing cleanup time.

Pros

• Easy to assemble
• Sturdy and durable construction
• Ideal size for home cooking
• Precision temperature control for consistent results
• Versatile cooking options beyond smoking

Cons

• Higher price compared to standard grills

For those who want a reliable, user-friendly pellet smoker with great performance and flavor, the Traeger Renegade Pro is a solid investment.

Masterbuilt MB20100112 Slow Smoker

Masterbuilt is a well-known name in outdoor cooking, offering a range of smokers that are simple to use and perfect for sausage smoking. This model is designed primarily for heat smoking, which means it isn’t suitable for meat curing or certain types of smoking.

However, its biggest advantage is its ability to convert Masterbuilt digital electric smokers into cold smokers when paired with the Masterbuilt 20070122 Cold Smoking Kit.

This attachment expands the functionality of digital smokers, allowing for slow smoking at lower temperatures. It features a continuous feed system, ensuring consistent smoke for extended periods without needing frequent refills. The black powder-coated body adds durability, and it is CSA-certified for safety and reliability.

Pros

• Cold Smoking Kit attachment available
• Durable black powder-coated body
• CSA-certified for safety
• Continuous feed system for extended smoking
• Compatible with all Masterbuilt digital electric smokers

Cons

• Some reviews mention a sharper taste of smoke
• Reports of the top lid not fitting properly, leading to minor leaks

If you’re looking for a way to expand your Masterbuilt smoker’s capabilities, this slow smoker attachment is a great option for achieving both hot and cold smoking results.

Smokehouse Products Big Chief Electric Smoker

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly smoker that still delivers great results, this is a fantastic choice. Unlike traditional wood or gas smokers, this electric unit provides a simple and hassle-free way to smoke summer sausages. Despite its compact size, it can hold up to 50 pounds of meat, making it a great option for backyard gatherings.

This smoker is all about ease of use. With its fixed heating element, you get consistent low-temperature smoking, perfect for achieving the ideal smoky flavor in summer sausages.

The chrome-plated grill racks allow for easy loading and monitoring, while the sturdy aluminum construction ensures durability for outdoor use.

Another highlight is its excellent insulation, which prevents heat loss and maintains a steady smoking temperature. Even beginners will find it simple to operate, making it a solid choice for those new to smoking. Cleaning is also easy, thanks to the dishwasher-safe drip pan.

While the aluminum body is lightweight, it’s also prone to dents and scratches, so you’ll need to handle it carefully. The smoker is designed strictly for outdoor use and lacks a water pan, which some users may find limiting. Additionally, it takes longer to cook compared to higher-powered models.

Pros

• Affordable option for budget-conscious buyers
• Durable and suitable for outdoor use
• Fixed heating element ensures consistent smoking
• Chrome-plated racks make loading and checking food easy

Cons

• Outdoor use only
• Longer cooking times compared to other smokers
• No water pan for added moisture

If you want a simple, budget-friendly smoker that’s easy to use and maintain, this is a great pick. It’s ideal for smoking summer sausages at a steady temperature, and its large capacity makes it perfect for feeding a crowd.

What Is Summer Sausage?

Summer sausage is a beloved American classic, but its origins trace back to Germany. German immigrants brought with them time-honored recipes for a hard, dried, smoked sausage similar to salami—one that could be stored without refrigeration.

These recipes, often unique to each family, were passed down through generations, preserving a rich culinary tradition.

Despite its name, summer sausage was traditionally made in winter. Farmers butchered large animals during the cold months, taking advantage of the lower temperatures to keep meat from spoiling.

The sausage was then smoked and cured to last through the summer months when fresh meat was scarce.

Today, summer sausage has become a year-round favorite. Oddly enough, many families now serve it as part of their Christmas dinner, making its name feel somewhat misleading.

If you’re curious about the technical definition of summer sausage, Science Direct offers an incredibly detailed breakdown—but be warned, it might take away some of the charm from this delicious, time-honored food.

Why You Need a Smoker for Summer Sausage

If you’re serious about making the best summer sausage, investing in a quality smoker is a game-changer. Here’s why:

1. Unbeatable Flavor

The rich, smoky aroma and deep, charred flavor that come from smoking simply can’t be replicated with other cooking methods.

Whether you prefer a mild, hickory-infused taste or a bold mesquite kick, a smoker allows you to experiment with different wood chips and achieve a distinct, mouthwatering flavor profile.

2. Cook More at Once

A smoker gives you the capacity to prepare large batches of sausage at once, making it the perfect tool for hosting gatherings, tailgates, or family barbecues.

Unlike a stovetop or grill that limits you to a few sausages at a time, a smoker lets you load up racks of sausages and cook them all evenly in one go.

3. Hands-Free Cooking

One of the biggest perks of using a smoker is the convenience. Unlike grilling, where you have to constantly flip and monitor your sausages, a smoker does the work for you.

It maintains a steady temperature, ensuring your sausages are cooked to perfection without needing constant attention.

Simply set it, let the smoke do its magic, and come back to juicy, flavorful sausages every time.

Smokers for Summer Sausage: Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right smoker can make all the difference when it comes to flavor, ease of use, and long-term durability. With so many great options available, narrowing down your choice requires understanding key features such as fuel type, construction, size, and overall functionality.

This guide will walk you through the most important factors to consider so you can find the perfect smoker for your summer sausage.

Related: Best Smoker for Cold Weather: Top Picks for Year-Round BBQ

Choice of Fuel: The Heart of Your Smoker

The type of fuel your smoker uses plays a crucial role in flavor, cooking efficiency, and ease of operation. Smokers generally fall into five categories based on their power source:

• Charcoal Smokers: Known for their deep, smoky flavor, charcoal smokers require more skill to control temperature and airflow. If you love the traditional, rich taste of smoked sausage, this might be the best option for you. However, they require more maintenance and cleanup.
• Wood Smokers: These are ideal for those who want an authentic, slow-cooked smoky flavor. They require constant monitoring to maintain the right temperature but deliver unmatched taste.
• Pellet Smokers: One of the most energy-efficient options, pellet smokers use compressed wood pellets for both heat and flavor. They offer precise temperature control and are an excellent choice for beginners and experts alike.
• Propane Smokers: A popular choice for backyard chefs, propane smokers provide consistent heat and are easy to operate. They don’t require electricity, making them great for outdoor use, but they may lack the deep smoky flavor of wood or charcoal smokers.
• Electric Smokers: If convenience is your top priority, an electric smoker is the way to go. Simply plug it in, set the temperature, and let it do the work. While they don’t deliver the same rich smoky taste as wood or charcoal smokers, they are a great hassle-free option for beginners.

Each fuel type comes with its own advantages and trade-offs, so your choice will depend on your preference for flavor, ease of use, and maintenance.

Build Quality: Ensuring Durability

A well-built smoker not only lasts longer but also provides better insulation, leading to more consistent cooking results. When choosing a smoker, consider the following:

• Material: Look for heavy-duty stainless steel or coated steel construction to ensure durability and rust resistance. Thicker materials retain heat better and improve energy efficiency.
• Insulation: A well-insulated smoker prevents heat loss, especially important for electric and propane models that rely on steady internal temperatures. Double-walled construction is a good indicator of high-quality insulation.
• Door Seals and Latches: A good smoker should have tight-sealing doors to prevent heat and smoke from escaping. Weak seals can lead to uneven cooking temperatures and longer smoking times.

Investing in a sturdy smoker means better performance, longevity, and ultimately, a better-tasting summer sausage.

Size: Finding the Right Fit for Your Needs

Size plays a critical role in choosing the right smoker. Consider how much food you’ll be cooking and the space available for storage and use.

• For Large Gatherings: If you frequently entertain guests, a larger smoker with multiple racks will allow you to prepare bigger batches at once. Look for models with at least 700–1,000 square inches of cooking space.
• For Small Backyards or Occasional Use: A compact, portable smoker with a cooking area between 400–600 square inches may be sufficient. These are ideal for personal use or small families.
• For Indoor or Apartment Use: If space is tight, a small electric smoker can be a practical solution. These models are easy to store and operate without the need for an outdoor setup.

Dimensions: Making Sure It Fits

Before purchasing a smoker, measure the space where you plan to keep it. Most vertical smokers fall within a similar size range:

• Height: Typically between 25 to 40 inches, with some models including legs that add another 5–6 inches.
• Width: Ranges from 20 to 25 inches, ensuring a compact footprint while still providing plenty of cooking space.
• Exceptions: Some models, like the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A, are shaped more like traditional barbecue grills, requiring more width but offering additional versatility.

If portability is important, consider a smoker with wheels or carrying handles for easier transport.

Cooking Area: How Much Space Do You Need?

The size of the cooking area determines how much sausage you can smoke at once. Whether you’re preparing for a large backyard gathering or just smoking a batch for your family, the right cooking space ensures efficiency and convenience.

• For Large Gatherings (700+ Square Inches): If you regularly host big parties, look for a smoker with at least 700 square inches of cooking space.
• For Smaller Gatherings (Under 600 Square Inches): If you’re only smoking sausages for your immediate family or a few friends, a smoker with under 600 square inches should be sufficient.

Most vertical smokers come with multiple levels, allowing you to either hang sausages or place them flat on racks. The more racks a smoker has, the more sausages you can cook at once—so be sure to check how many are included.

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Weight: Portability vs. Stability

The weight of a smoker affects how easy it is to move and store. While heavier models offer more stability and durability, they may not be ideal if you need something portable.

• Lightweight Smokers (20–50 lbs): These are easier to carry and transport, often featuring side handles for convenience. If you plan on moving your smoker frequently, look for models within this range.
• Heavier Smokers (100+ lbs): Some high-end smokers can weigh 100 to 150 pounds. While these are less common, they provide better insulation and durability, making them a great option for those who want a more permanent setup.

Consider how often you’ll need to move your smoker before deciding on the ideal weight.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

A smoker should be easy to operate and maintain, ensuring that even beginners can use it with confidence.

• Temperature Control: Smoking isn’t complicated, but maintaining the right temperature can be tricky. Look for smokers with built-in thermostats, adjustable vents, or digital temperature controls for precision.
• Easy Cleaning Features: Cleaning up after smoking can be a hassle, but certain features make it easier. Removable grease trays and drip pans help prevent buildup, while easy-access wood chip trays make refueling simple. A smoker with these features will save you time and effort.

Easy Cleaning: A Must for Safe Cooking

A dirty smoker can lead to flavor contamination and even food poisoning, so easy cleaning features are essential.

• Look for smokers with removable drip trays, grease management systems, and easy-access wood chip trays.
• Stainless steel interiors are easier to wipe down and prevent rust buildup.
• A well-maintained smoker will last longer and continue to produce delicious, high-quality smoked sausage.

Quality Construction: Built to Last

A smoker is an investment, and you’ll want one that can withstand years of use. Look for models made from durable materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty coated steel, which resist rust and corrosion.

High-quality construction ensures not only longevity but also consistent heat retention, leading to better-smoked sausage every time.

Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Family

Your safety—and that of your family—should be a top priority when choosing a smoker. Look for safety features like insulated handles, automatic shut-off functions (for electric models), and sturdy, heat-resistant doors and lids.

Proper ventilation is also essential to prevent excessive smoke buildup, especially if you’re using a propane or charcoal smoker.

Portability: Taking Your Smoker on the Go

If you love grilling and smoking outdoors during the summer, portability is key. Many of the top sausage smokers are designed with wheels, side handles, and lightweight materials, making them easy to move around.

Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or just moving it from your garage to the backyard, a portable smoker ensures convenience without compromising performance.

Durability: Withstanding the Elements

Outdoor smokers are exposed to varying weather conditions, from extreme heat to rain and snow. To ensure longevity, choose a smoker that features:

• Weather-resistant coatings (such as porcelain or powder-coated finishes)
• High-quality seals to prevent moisture and smoke leaks
• Rust-resistant construction, especially for those stored outside year-round

A well-built smoker will last for years with minimal maintenance.

Warranty: Peace of Mind for Your Purchase

A good warranty can be a strong indicator of a product’s quality. Many top brands offer warranties that vary depending on the smoker’s components.

For example, the Weber 721001 Smokey Mountain Cooker—one of the best-rated charcoal smokers—comes with:

• A 10-year warranty on the bowl, lid, and center ring
• A 5-year warranty on plastic components
• A 2-year warranty on other parts

Before purchasing, always check the manufacturer’s warranty policy to ensure you’re covered in case of defects or issues.

Budget: Finding the Best Smoker for Your Price Range

Smokers come in a wide range of prices, so it’s important to balance quality with affordability.

• Budget-Friendly Option ($130–$250)
• Mid-Range Smokers ($300–$500)
• Premium Smokers ($500+)

There’s no need to overspend—there are great smokers at every price point, so find one that fits your needs and budget.

Don’t Forget to Check Customer Reviews

One of the best ways to determine if a smoker is right for you is to read customer reviews. Real-life experiences from other buyers can provide insights into durability, ease of use, and overall performance.

Look for trends in reviews—if multiple people mention poor heat retention or flimsy construction, it’s a red flag.

How to Make Summer Sausage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making summer sausage at home is a rewarding process that allows you to customize flavors while ensuring quality ingredients. Follow these steps for a delicious batch of homemade summer sausage.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Meat

Summer sausage can be made from beef, pork, or a combination of both. Some traditional recipes include beef heart, but it can create a stronger flavor that not everyone enjoys.

A 60% beef and 40% pork ratio produces a well-balanced taste, where the beef adds depth without overpowering the pork.

For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality meat from a local butcher rather than pre-packaged supermarket meat. If possible, ask your butcher to grind it for you or grind it at home for a fine texture.

Also Read: Best Blender To Puree Meat

Step 2: Adding the Spices

Spices define the flavor of your summer sausage. While you can experiment with different combinations, a traditional mix includes:

• Salt – Enhances flavor and preserves the meat.
• Black pepper, white pepper, or green pepper – Adds depth.
• Mustard seeds – Brings mild heat and texture.
• Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic – A classic, robust addition.
• Sugar – Balances out the saltiness.
• Coriander (optional) – Offers a mild citrusy note.
• Chili flakes (optional) – Adds a bit of heat.

Experiment with different spice combinations to create a unique family recipe.

Step 3: Fermenting and Curing

Fermenting the Meat

Fermentation gives summer sausage its distinct tangy taste. The easiest way to do this is by using a meat culture like FL-C, which also helps prevent harmful bacteria such as Listeria.

To ferment properly:

• Keep the temperature at 86°F (30°C).
• Maintain 85-90% humidity.
• Let it ferment for 24 hours.

Curing the Sausage

Curing is essential for preservation. Pink curing salt (Prague Powder #1) is the most commonly used curing agent.

• Use 1 teaspoon of pink salt per 5 pounds of meat.
• Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
• Pink salt can be easily found online, such as the Wishful 2.5 lb bag.

Step 4: Mixing the Meat and Spices

If grinding your own meat, mix the spices in before grinding for even distribution.

If using pre-ground meat, mix by hand until the consistency is sticky and clumps together, ensuring the spices are evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Preparing the Sausage Casings

You’ll need collagen or non-fibrous casings.

• Collagen casings (such as Smokehouse casings) work well.
• Natural casings (beef middles) can be requested from your butcher.

Stuffing the Sausages

To fill the casings, use a sausage stuffer rather than a grinder attachment, as grinders don’t pack the meat efficiently.

Recommended options:

• Vertical sausage stuffer – Best choice (e.g., LEM Products 5 lb stuffer).
• Manual sausage stuffer – Works well for smaller batches.

Casings should be packed tightly, removing as much air as possible to prevent uneven cooking and spoilage.

Step 6: Smoking the Sausages

Proper smoking enhances flavor and texture.

• Keep the temperature below 190°F (88°C) to maintain quality.
• If the smoker reaches 250°F (121°C), the fat will melt, ruining the sausage’s texture.
• Start at 110°F (43°C) and gradually increase the temperature over 6 hours.
• Maintain 70% humidity during smoking.
• The internal temperature of the sausages should reach 140°F (60°C) at the thickest part.

Once smoked, store the sausages below 60°F (15°C) in a moderately humid environment.

FAQ: Best Smoker for Summer Sausage

Conclusion

Finding the best smoker for summer sausage comes down to your personal needs—whether you want authentic wood-smoked flavor, convenient electric operation, or a versatile pellet smoker.

Vertical charcoal smokers like the Weber Smokey Mountain offer unbeatable smoky flavor, while pellet smokers like the Z GRILLS ZPG-450A provide precise temperature control.

No matter which smoker you choose, focus on temperature stability, cooking capacity, and ease of cleaning to get the best results. With the right smoker and a little patience, you’ll be making flavorful, homemade summer sausage that beats anything store-bought. Happy smoking!