The Best Turkey Summer Sausage Recipe for Healthier Snacking

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a slice of smoky, savory summer sausage—but what if you could enjoy all that bold flavor with fewer calories and less fat? Enter turkey summer sausage, a leaner, healthier twist on the classic favorite. Whether you’re trying to eat clean, follow a low-carb or keto lifestyle, or simply looking for a high-protein snack that doesn’t compromise on taste, this homemade turkey summer sausage recipe is a must-try.

In this post, you’ll learn how to make your own turkey summer sausage at home with simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for storing and serving. From meal prep to charcuterie boards, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, guilt-free snack option.

Why Choose Turkey Summer Sausage?

If you’re a fan of summer sausage but want a lighter, healthier option, turkey summer sausage is the perfect solution. It delivers all the smoky, savory flavor you love—with less fat, fewer calories, and more nutritional benefits. Here’s why it’s a smart choice for health-conscious snackers:

Homemade turkey summer sausage sliced on a wooden board with cheese and crackers

A Leaner, Healthier Alternative to Traditional Sausage

Traditional summer sausage is often made with pork or beef, which can be high in saturated fat and calories. In contrast, turkey is a lean protein that provides all the flavor without the guilt. By choosing turkey, you’re cutting back on fat while still enjoying a satisfying, protein-rich snack.

Packed with Protein but Light on Calories

Turkey summer sausage is ideal for those who want to boost their protein intake without overloading on calories. A few slices can provide long-lasting energy and help keep you feeling full—making it a great addition to low-carb, keto, or high-protein diets.

Perfect for Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Diets

Unlike some store-bought snacks that contain hidden sugars or gluten-based fillers, homemade turkey summer sausage can easily be made gluten-free, nitrate-free, and keto-friendly. It’s a clean snack that fits into a variety of dietary lifestyles.

Great for Snacking, Meal Prep, or Entertaining

Whether you’re packing a lunchbox, building a charcuterie board, or prepping meals for the week, turkey summer sausage adds convenience and flavor. It’s shelf-stable after curing, easy to slice, and pairs well with cheese, fruit, nuts, or veggies.

Ingredients and Tools You’ll Need

Before you start making your own turkey summer sausage, make sure you have the right ingredients and tools on hand. This recipe is easy to follow, but a few specific components will help you achieve that classic texture, smoky flavor, and long-lasting freshness.

Ground Turkey (Lean or Extra Lean)

The star of the recipe is ground turkey—either 93% lean or extra lean (99%) depending on your preference. Extra lean turkey will produce a firmer sausage with a slightly drier bite, while 93% lean gives a juicier result. Avoid fatty blends, as they can cause the sausage to become greasy and fall apart.

Seasoning Blend for Flavor and Aroma

To recreate that authentic summer sausage taste, you’ll need a mix of classic spices. Here’s a basic seasoning blend you can start with:

Garlic powder
Onion powder
Mustard seeds
Black pepper
Smoked paprika
Crushed red pepper (optional for heat)
Liquid smoke (if not using a smoker)
These flavors create the savory, slightly tangy bite that defines a good summer sausage.

Curing Salt (Prague Powder #1)

To make a shelf-stable, safe-to-eat summer sausage, you’ll need curing salt, also known as Prague Powder #1 or Instacure #1. This prevents bacterial growth during the low-temperature cooking or smoking process and helps develop the signature pink interior. Use with care—only the recommended amount for your recipe weight.

📝 Note: If you prefer a nitrate-free version, you can skip the curing salt—but the sausage must be fully cooked and refrigerated.

Casings or Molds

While optional, natural or synthetic sausage casings give your turkey summer sausage its iconic shape and hold everything together during cooking. If you don’t have casings, you can shape the sausage into tight logs using plastic wrap and foil for a similar effect.

Cooking Tools: Oven, Smoker, or Dehydrator

You can use any of the following tools to cook or cure your sausage:

Oven – Ideal for consistent heat and simple baking.
Smoker – Adds that classic smoky flavor and texture.
Food dehydrator – A low-and-slow option for drying and preserving sausage.

A meat thermometer is also essential. Turkey must reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat, especially when using curing salt.

Step-by-Step Turkey Summer Sausage Recipe

Ready to make your own delicious and healthier version of summer sausage? Follow these simple steps to prepare a flavorful, protein-packed turkey summer sausage recipe that’s perfect for snacking, meal prep, or entertaining. Whether you’re using an oven, smoker, or dehydrator, this method ensures a satisfying result every time.

1. Combine Ground Turkey and Seasonings

In a large mixing bowl, add:

2 pounds of ground turkey (lean or extra lean)
2 teaspoons curing salt (Prague Powder #1) – optional, but recommended if not eating immediately
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
1 tablespoon liquid smoke (if not using a smoker)

Mix thoroughly using gloved hands or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent flavor throughout.

💡 Tip: For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the mixture overnight (8–24 hours). This allows the spices to fully penetrate the meat.

2. Shape or Stuff the Sausage

After chilling, it’s time to form your sausage.

Option 1: Use Casings
Stuff the seasoned meat into natural or synthetic casings using a sausage stuffer or funnel. Twist or tie off the ends tightly to form logs.

Option 2: No Casings
Divide the mixture into two or three portions and shape each into a firm, compact log. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, twisting the ends to secure.

3. Cook or Smoke the Sausage

There are a few ways to cook your turkey summer sausage:

Oven Method (Most Common):

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
Place the sausage logs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Bake for 4 to 5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Rotate halfway through cooking for even heat exposure.

Smoker Method:

Smoke the sausages at 175–185°F (79–85°C) for 4–6 hours until fully cooked.
Use wood chips like hickory or applewood for rich, smoky flavor.

Dehydrator Method (Optional):

Place the sausage in a dehydrator set to a low temperature (145–155°F / 63–68°C) for 6–8 hours.
This method works best when using curing salt.

4. Cool, Slice, and Serve

Once cooked, allow the sausages to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for several hours (or overnight) before slicing. This helps the texture firm up and makes clean, even slices easier.

Use a sharp knife to cut into thin rounds for snacking, sandwiches, or charcuterie boards. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips, Variations, and Healthier Twists

One of the best things about making your own turkey summer sausage is the ability to customize it exactly to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re watching your sodium, avoiding preservatives, or just love experimenting with new flavors, here are some easy ways to tweak the recipe.

Add a Spicy Kick

Love heat? You can easily turn this into a spicy turkey summer sausage by adjusting the seasonings:

Add 1–2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes
Mix in chopped jalapeños or green chiles
Sprinkle in a touch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for a smoky burn
These additions pair perfectly with the smoky flavor and lean meat.

Make It Nitrate-Free and All-Natural

Want a cleaner version of summer sausage?
Skip the curing salt (Prague Powder #1) if you plan to cook the sausage thoroughly and refrigerate it right away. Instead, you can use natural preservatives like:

Celery juice powder
Sea salt
Fresh garlic and vinegar
Keep in mind that without curing salt, the sausage will be paler in color and won’t be shelf-stable, but it will still be delicious and preservative-free.

Flavor Variations to Try

Change things up with creative mix-ins for unique taste profiles:

Sweet & Savory: Add dried cranberries, maple syrup, or a touch of brown sugar for balance.
Tangy & Herby: Try Dijon mustard, fresh thyme, or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Smoky Gourmet: Mix in smoked gouda, sun-dried tomatoes, or chipotle powder for a bold, gourmet twist.
These add-ins make your turkey summer sausage stand out on charcuterie boards and sandwich platters.

Keep It Gluten-Free and Low-Carb

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, but always double-check your spice blends and liquid smoke labels for hidden additives.
You can also:

Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce (if used in a variation)
Avoid breadcrumb fillers entirely
Pair with keto crackers, cheese, or raw veggies for a balanced snack

Storage, Shelf Life, and Snacking Ideas

Once you’ve made your flavorful and protein-rich turkey summer sausage, you’ll want to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious. Whether you’re prepping ahead for the week or adding it to a weekend charcuterie board, here’s how to store, serve, and enjoy it.

How to Store: Fridge vs. Freezer Tips

Refrigeration:
After cooking, allow your sausage to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or store it in an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing:
For longer storage, slice the sausage and separate layers with parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. This makes it easy to grab just what you need. Properly wrapped, frozen turkey summer sausage can last up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

💡 Tip: Label your sausage with the date before freezing for easier tracking.

Meal Prep and On-the-Go Snacking

Turkey summer sausage is a fantastic option for healthy meal prep and quick snacks. It’s:

Portable – Great for work lunches, hiking, or post-workout protein.
Low-carb – Perfect for keto or diabetic-friendly diets.
Filling – A few slices deliver protein that helps curb cravings.

Slice it ahead of time and pair with boiled eggs, cheese cubes, or raw veggies for a ready-to-eat snack box.

Sausage on a Charcuterie Board

Add your homemade turkey summer sausage to your next charcuterie board for a leaner twist on traditional meats:

Slice it thin and fan out the pieces for visual appeal
Pair with sharp cheddar, goat cheese, nuts, olives, or apple slices
Serve with whole grain mustard, gluten-free crackers, or toasted baguette rounds

It’s a hit at parties and also fits nicely into health-conscious entertaining.

Other Creative Serving Ideas

Breakfasts: Dice and toss into scrambled eggs, omelets, or a low-carb breakfast bowl
Wraps & Sandwiches: Layer into a whole-wheat wrap with greens and hummus
Salads: Add sliced sausage to a spinach or kale salad for a flavorful protein boost
Pasta Substitute: Serve it sliced over spiralized zucchini noodles for a healthy dinner