Pickled Sausages

These tangy and smoky pickled sausages are an easy refrigerator pickle that brightens sandwiches and makes for a perfect snack.

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 5

Total Time 25

Course Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

2 lbs smoked beef sausage (turkey kielbasa or Penrose-style) Substitute: chicken andouille or turkey kielbasa for more smoke, beef sausage for lower fat.
2 cups white vinegar The backbone of the brine. Substitute: apple cider vinegar for fruity acidity.
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar Balances the vinegar. Honey or maple syrup can be used but will change the flavor.
1 tbsp crushed red pepper Adjust to taste for heat.
1 tsp mustard seeds Adds a subtle pungency.
1 tbsp black peppercorns Whole for aromatic pockets in the jar.
2 tbsp pickling spice Contains bay leaf, coriander, allspice, etc. (Tip: toast briefly in a dry pan to wake the flavors.)
4 cloves garlic, peeled Leave whole for mellow garlic flavor.
5 pcs jalapeño peppers, sliced Remove seeds for milder heat; keep them for maximum kick.

Trim and slice the smoked beef sausage into bite-sized rounds, about 1/2-inch thick.
Pack the beef sausage slices tightly into a large clean glass jar, leaving about 1/2 inch headspace.
Layer sliced jalapeños evenly between beef sausage pieces so heat distributes through the jar.

In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, and sugar. Warm gently and stir until the sugar fully dissolves.
Add the crushed red pepper, mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and pickling spice to the saucepan. Toss in the peeled garlic cloves.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then let it come to a gentle boil for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices.

Carefully pour the hot brine over the packed beef sausage and jalapeños, ensuring all solids are submerged.
Seal the jar tightly while hot and let it cool to room temperature on the counter.
Refrigerate the jar for at least three days before eating to allow flavors to meld. The longer it sits (up to a few weeks), the deeper the flavor.

Use a large, clean glass jar that seals tightly. Sterilize jars if you want extra shelf confidence, though this is a refrigerator-style pickle.

Keyword Game-Day Food, pickled sausages, Picnic Food, Refrigerator Pickle, Snack Recipe