Let me take you on a flavorful journey that starts in Memphis and ends at your dinner table. The Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Growing up in a food-loving family, I spent countless summer afternoons assembling plates of delicious goodies.
Among those standout treats was the cheesed sausage plate, combining the smoky richness of sausage with the creamy goodness of cheese. So, strip away any notions of mundane meals! This plate is about to add some zest to your life.
What is Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate?
Memphis Style is all about the bold flavors and diverse ingredients that encapsulate what BBQ is all about. The main stars are vibrant cheeses and juicy smoked sausages, tied together with a dab of barbecue sauce for that authentic Southern flair.
Imagine a platter where the sausage is perfectly grilled to bring out its deep flavors while the cheese melts slightly, offering that gooey texture we all crave. Add some sweet and spicy sauce, and you’ve got yourself a real treat. The balance of flavors and textures makes this dish the ultimate appetizer, snack, or even a main meal!
You might wonder: what makes Memphis style unique? It’s the way the components interact. In Memphis cuisine, it’s never just about eating; it’s about savoring each bite, enjoying the smoky aftertaste paired with the creaminess of cheese.
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Why You’ll Love This Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate
There’s something about the Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It ticks all the boxes: flavor, texture, and presentation. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and best of all, it caters to all taste preferences. Whether you prefer your sausage smoky or spicy, this plate has you covered.
I can vouch for the satisfaction that comes after one bite. The twist of cheese with the curated seasonings mixed into the sausage creates pure magic. Moreover, it’s versatile. Serve it at family gatherings, BBW parties, or a cozy night in while binge-watching your favorite shows. People will always be left wanting more!
The Ingredients
Before you rush off to your kitchen, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 1-2 cups of your favorite bold BBQ sauce (smoky or sweet)
- 1 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
- 1-2 teaspoons all-purpose dry rub seasoning blend (optional but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons finely diced jalapeños (for a slight kick)
- Links of high-quality smoked sausage (kielbasa or another favorite, sliced)
- Cheddar cheese (extra sharp white cheddar is highly recommended)
Each ingredient serves a distinct purpose, ensuring the final dish is a harmonious symphony of flavor.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
First, I always start by choosing quality sausage. This is key! Slice your smoked sausage into ½-inch pieces. Since I love my flavors bold, I go for a traditional kielbasa that pairs perfectly with the cheese. Next, preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat; this will give the sausage a nice char.
Step 2: Grill the Sausage
Once preheated, add the sausage slices in a single layer on the grill. Allow them to cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown hue appears. The sizzling sound always brings a smile to my face—it’s like music!
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
While the sausage is cooking, take a bowl and mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, and dry rub seasoning (if using). Stir it well. The honey will balance any bitterness from the BBQ sauce and make it pop!
Step 4: Combine Sausage and Sauce
When your sausage is grilled to perfection, pour the sauce mix over the top. Make sure every piece is well-coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve with Cheese
Transfer the sauced sausage onto a serving platter and top with generous slices of cheddar cheese. I let the cheese melt slightly from the warmth of the sausage. This creates a lovely blend of textures and flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
Finally, sprinkle your finely diced jalapeños on top. This adds a splash of color and spice. Now it’s time to dig in! Whether you’re munching on this alone or serving it to friends, the compliments are sure to pour in.
Tips & Tricks
Here are some valuable nuggets of advice that I’ve discovered along the way:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor hinges on the quality of your sausage and cheese. Don’t skimp here.
- Customize Your BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces. A sweet sauce complements the flavors nicely but a spicy version adds a delightful kick!
- Jalapeño Alternatives: Not everyone loves heat. Substitute with finely chopped bell peppers for a sweeter crunch.
- Make Ahead: This dish is easily prepped in advance. Just store the components separately and combine before serving.
- Presentation Counts: Use a nice platter. Garnishing with fresh herbs, like parsley, can elevate the visual appeal.
Nutrition Information
Diving into some nutritional value, this dish serves about 4-6 people. The nutritional breakdown per serving includes approximately:
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 5g
While this may not be the healthiest plate, remember—it’s all about balance! Enjoying this as part of a varied diet is key.
Can I Store Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate?
Absolutely! If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last about 3-4 days. The flavors actually intensify after a day or two, making it even better for a quick snack later!
What Can I Serve with Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate?
Looking to amp up your spread? You could pair this with:
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet and fluffy, it complements the saltiness of the sausage.
- Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess provide a refreshing contrast.
- Pickles: Adds acidity to balance the dish.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic BBQ companion.
- Cooling Dip: Try serving with a ranch or sour cream dip for that creamy finish.
Variations
Looking for some twists? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Southwestern Style: Add some black beans and corn to the mix for a Southwestern vibe!
- Smoky Cheese Edition: Swap cheddar for smoked Gouda for an added layer of flavor.
- Hot and Spicy: Use hot sausage and increase the jalapeños for a fiery dish!
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute sausage with grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- Tex-Mex Mash-Up: Incorporate some tortillas on the side and use queso cheese as a drizzle.
Conclusion
The Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate isn’t just food; it’s a palate-pleasing adventure filled with excitement and flavor. I’ve shared my passion for this iconic dish, and I encourage you to give it a shot. As I’ve mentioned, this plate is perfect for any occasion—be it a casual gathering or a cozy family dinner.
Its bold flavors and satisfying components are sure to bring everyone together over a fantastic meal. So grab those ingredients and get ready to create something memorable! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
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Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate
Description
Let me take you on a flavorful journey that starts in Memphis and ends at your dinner table. The Memphis Style Cheese Sausage Plate is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Growing up in a food-loving family, I spent countless summer afternoons assembling plates of delicious goodies.
Among those standout treats was the cheesed sausage plate, combining the smoky richness of sausage with the creamy goodness of cheese. So, strip away any notions of mundane meals! This plate is about to add some zest to your life.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
-
First, I always start by choosing quality sausage. This is key! Slice your smoked sausage into ½-inch pieces. Since I love my flavors bold, I go for a traditional kielbasa that pairs perfectly with the cheese. Next, preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat; this will give the sausage a nice char.
Step 2: Grill the Sausage
-
Once preheated, add the sausage slices in a single layer on the grill. Allow them to cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until a golden-brown hue appears. The sizzling sound always brings a smile to my face—it’s like music!
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
-
While the sausage is cooking, take a bowl and mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, and dry rub seasoning (if using). Stir it well. The honey will balance any bitterness from the BBQ sauce and make it pop!
Step 4: Combine Sausage and Sauce
-
When your sausage is grilled to perfection, pour the sauce mix over the top. Make sure every piece is well-coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve with Cheese
-
Transfer the sauced sausage onto a serving platter and top with generous slices of cheddar cheese. I let the cheese melt slightly from the warmth of the sausage. This creates a lovely blend of textures and flavors.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy!
-
Finally, sprinkle your finely diced jalapeños on top. This adds a splash of color and spice. Now it’s time to dig in! Whether you’re munching on this alone or serving it to friends, the compliments are sure to pour in.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 380kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28g44%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 20g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some valuable nuggets of advice that I’ve discovered along the way:
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The flavor hinges on the quality of your sausage and cheese. Don’t skimp here.
- Customize Your BBQ Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces. A sweet sauce complements the flavors nicely but a spicy version adds a delightful kick!
- Jalapeño Alternatives: Not everyone loves heat. Substitute with finely chopped bell peppers for a sweeter crunch.
- Make Ahead: This dish is easily prepped in advance. Just store the components separately and combine before serving.
Presentation Counts: Use a nice platter. Garnishing with fresh herbs, like parsley, can elevate the visual appeal.
