Smoked Sausage and Cheese Plate

Here’s a delicious recipe for a Smoked Sausage and Cheese Plate with Texas-style jalapeño cheddar sausage, smoked on a pellet grill for that extra depth of flavor. Perfect for parties, game day, or any time you want a smoky, savory appetizer!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Texas-style jalapeño cheddar sausage (or your favorite smoked sausage)

• 8 oz block of sharp cheddar cheese, cut into cubes

• 8 oz block of pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes

• 1/4 cup assorted pickles (dill, sweet, or bread & butter)

• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños

• Crackers or toasted bread (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pellet Grill: Preheat your pellet grill to 225°F. Choose a wood pellet like hickory, applewood, or pecan to complement the sausage.

2. Smoke the Sausage: Place the sausage directly on the grill grates and smoke for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. This will give the sausage a deep, smoky flavor while keeping it juicy.

3. Rest and Slice the Sausage: Remove the sausage from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Once rested, slice it into bite-sized pieces.

4. Assemble the Plate: Arrange the smoked sausage slices and cheese cubes on a serving platter. Add pickles and pickled jalapeños for an extra pop of flavor. Serve with crackers or toasted bread if desired.

Tips:

• Cheese Variety: For added flavor, try using smoked gouda, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack alongside the cheddar.

• Extra Garnishes: Sliced apples, grapes, or fresh veggies like celery or carrots add a nice touch.

This smoked sausage and cheese plate is perfect for gatherings, pairing the smokiness of the sausage with fresh, creamy cheese!