Meat lovers, rejoice!
Summer sausage is a delicious and versatile food that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re slicing it up for a charcuterie board or using it as a topping on your favorite pizza, summer sausage is a staple in many households.
But what happens when you have too much summer sausage on your hands? Can you freeze it to make it last longer?
The answer is yes, but there are some important things to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of freezing Hillshire Farms summer sausage, including how long it can last in the freezer and tips for maintaining its flavor and texture.
So grab a snack (maybe some summer sausage?) and let’s dive in!
Can You Freeze Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage?
Hillshire Farms summer sausage is a popular brand of dry sausage that is enjoyed by many. If you find yourself with leftover summer sausage that you don’t want to go to waste, freezing it is a great option.
The good news is that Hillshire Farms summer sausage can be frozen, and it will last for up to 10 months in the freezer. However, it’s important to note that freezing can cause the texture of the sausage to change, so it’s best to use it within a year of freezing.
The Basics Of Freezing Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage
Before freezing Hillshire Farms summer sausage, it’s important to follow a few basic steps to ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat. First, you’ll need to gather some freezer paper and tape.
To begin, wrap the summer sausage in freezer paper before placing it in the freezer. This will help prevent any air from getting inside the packaging and causing freezer burn. It’s important to remove enough freezer paper so that the sausage is completely covered, and to place the paper on a smooth surface with the shiny side facing up.
Next, place the summer sausage in the middle of the freezer sheet and wrap it like a gift, folding the edges of the freezer paper around the sausage. Use freezer tape to seal the edges of your wrapping and label your package correctly with the date.
If you have a small freezer, it’s best to wrap each summer sausage in foil before placing them inside. This will help prevent them from sticking together and make it easier to remove just one sausage at a time.
When it comes time to thaw out your frozen Hillshire Farms summer sausage, it’s best to do so slowly in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing on the sausage as it thaws. It’s important to never thaw sausage at room temperature or in hot water, as this can cause bacteria to grow quickly.
How Long Can You Freeze Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage?
If you’re wondering how long you can freeze Hillshire Farms summer sausage, the answer is up to 10 months. This brand of summer sausage, like other dry sausages, doesn’t require refrigeration and can be stored at room temperature. However, freezing it can help extend its shelf life and preserve its flavor and texture.
To ensure that the sausage stays fresh while frozen, it’s important to properly store it. Place the sausage in an airtight container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. It’s also a good idea to label the container with the date of freezing to keep track of how long it has been frozen.
While Hillshire Farms summer sausage can be stored in the freezer for up to 10 months, it’s recommended to consume it within a year of freezing for the best texture and flavor. Freezing can cause the fats in the sausage to separate, which can affect its texture.
Tips For Maintaining Flavor And Texture When Freezing Summer Sausage
If you want to freeze Hillshire Farms summer sausage while maintaining its flavor and texture, there are a few tips that you should follow.
Firstly, it’s important to use airtight containers or freezer bags to minimize air contact with the sausage. The less contact the sausage has with air, the better its texture will be after thawing. Additionally, it’s recommended to wrap the sausage in freezer paper before placing it in the container or bag. This will help prevent freezer burn and keep the sausage fresh.
When wrapping the sausage in freezer paper, make sure to remove enough paper so that it completely covers the sausage. Place the paper on a smooth surface with the shiny side facing up, and place the summer sausage in the center of the paper. Wrap the sausage like a gift, folding the edges of the paper around it. Use freezer tape to seal the edges of your wrapping and label your package with the date.
It’s also important to thaw frozen summer sausage properly. The best way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. This will allow it to thaw slowly and maintain its texture and flavor. Avoid using hot water or a microwave to thaw the sausage, as this can cause it to become rubbery or dry.
Finally, once you’ve thawed your Hillshire Farms summer sausage, make sure to use it within three to four days for best results. Don’t refreeze thawed sausage as this can cause further changes in texture and flavor.
By following these tips, you can freeze Hillshire Farms summer sausage without sacrificing its flavor and texture. Enjoy your favorite dry sausage all year round!
Thawing And Using Frozen Hillshire Farms Summer Sausage
When it comes to using frozen Hillshire Farms summer sausage, it’s important to properly thaw it before cooking or consuming. Thawing the sausage properly will help ensure that it retains its flavor and texture, and most importantly, prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
There are a few methods you can use to thaw frozen Hillshire Farms summer sausage. The first and most recommended method is to thaw it in the refrigerator. Simply transfer the sausage from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This method is the safest and most effective way to thaw any type of food.
If you’re short on time, you can also use a microwave to thaw the sausage. Place the frozen sausage on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on the defrost setting until it becomes pliable enough to separate. Be sure to follow the microwave instructions carefully, as all microwaves tend to work slightly differently. Microwave in two-minute intervals, checking regularly until fully defrosted.
Another method is to thaw the sausage in a bowl of lukewarm water. This is not the most convenient method, but it will ensure that the sausages don’t burn when they are cooked. Simply place the frozen sausage in a bowl of lukewarm water and let it sit for about 30 minutes or until fully defrosted.
Once your Hillshire Farms summer sausage is fully defrosted, you can either slice it into individual servings or use it whole. It’s important to note that once the sausage has been thawed, you should cook it immediately to avoid any germ buildup.
Other Ways To Use Up Your Summer Sausage Stash
If you have a surplus of summer sausage and don’t want to freeze it, there are plenty of other ways to use it up. One popular option is to make a charcuterie board with sliced summer sausage, cheese, crackers, and fruit. This is a great option for entertaining guests or for a quick and easy snack.
Another way to use up your summer sausage stash is to add it to pasta dishes or soups. The smoky flavor of the sausage pairs well with tomato-based sauces and adds a protein boost to your meal.
If you’re feeling creative, you can also try incorporating summer sausage into breakfast dishes like omelets or breakfast burritos. The salty flavor of the sausage adds a unique twist to traditional breakfast foods.
Finally, you can simply enjoy summer sausage as a snack on its own. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and enjoy it as a protein-packed snack on the go.
No matter how you choose to use up your summer sausage stash, it’s important to remember that refrigeration is key to keeping it fresh. If you’re not planning on freezing it, be sure to store it in the fridge and consume it within a week or so for optimal freshness.
