What is Conecuh Sausage?
If you live outside Alabama, you may not have heard of Conecuh sausage. This regional specialty is a staple in the South, but it’s not widely available anywhere else.
But that doesn’t mean it’s not popular. In fact, Conecuh sausage has a dedicated fan base, with members posting pictures, swapping stories, and sharing their favorite cooking tips in groups like “The Conecuh Sausage Fan Club” on Facebook (which boasts more than 30,000 members!).
If you’re one of the lucky people who can easily get their hands on this flavorful sausage, you’re in the right place. This article explores the versatility of Conecuh sausage and provides some recipes you can try at home.
Understanding Conecuh Sausage
What makes Conecuh sausage so special? Let’s take a closer look.
What is Conecuh Sausage?
Conecuh sausage, made by the Conecuh Sausage Company in Evergreen, Alabama, is a smoked pork sausage known for its distinct, savory flavor with just a hint of spice. The company doesn’t release a full ingredient list, but it’s known to contain a blend of pork and seasonings.
Why is it so popular?
For many Alabamans, Conecuh sausage is more than just food; it’s a taste of home. It’s often featured at local events and family gatherings, and it’s synonymous with Southern hospitality.
Home cooks love Conecuh sausage because it’s incredibly versatile. You can grill it, slice it into stews, or add it to your favorite breakfast scramble. It’s a simple way to add a lot of flavor to just about any dish.
Breakfast Recipes Featuring Conecuh Sausage
For a taste of the South first thing in the morning, try these breakfast recipes featuring Conecuh sausage.
Conecuh Sausage and Grits
Is there anything more Southern than sausage and grits? This classic breakfast gets a major upgrade with the smoky, spicy flavor of Conecuh sausage. The flavorful sausage adds richness and depth to creamy, smooth grits.
Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
- 1 pound Conecuh sausage, sliced
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup stone-ground grits
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Bring the water to a boil, then whisk in the grits. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are tender. Stir in the milk, butter, salt, and pepper. While the grits are cooking, sauté the Conecuh sausage until browned. Serve the sausage over the grits.
Conecuh Sausage Breakfast Casserole
A breakfast casserole is a perfect way to feed a crowd. This version includes eggs, cheese, bread, and, of course, Conecuh sausage. To make it, combine cubed bread, cooked Conecuh sausage, shredded cheese, and a mixture of eggs and milk. Bake until golden brown and bubbly. You can customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables, such as onions, peppers, or spinach.
Conecuh Sausage and Egg Scramble
For a quick and easy breakfast, try scrambling eggs with Conecuh sausage. Simply cook the sausage, then add beaten eggs to the pan and scramble until cooked through. For added nutrition and flavor, toss in some chopped vegetables like onions, peppers, and mushrooms.
Lunch and Dinner Recipes with Conecuh Sausage
Conecuh sausage isn’t just for breakfast. The smoky, savory flavor of this Alabama staple shines in lunch and dinner dishes, too. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
One-Pan Conecuh Sausage Pasta
One-pan meals are weeknight superheroes. Less cleanup, more flavor! For this dish, you’ll need:
- Smoked Conecuh sausage, sliced
- Diced tomatoes
- Half-and-half
- Your favorite cheese, shredded
- Pasta (penne or rotini work well)
Brown the sausage in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Add the pasta, tomatoes, and half-and-half. Bring to a simmer and cook until the pasta is tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in the cheese and serve. Easy peasy!
Variations: Try different types of pasta, add some chopped bell peppers or spinach, or swap out the cheese for something bolder like pepper jack.
Conecuh Sausage Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a classic Louisiana dish, and Conecuh sausage adds a unique Southern twist. You’ll need rice, the “holy trinity” of vegetables (onions, peppers, and celery), and a blend of Cajun spices. I’ll link to a great jambalaya recipe, but simply substitute Conecuh for the andouille sausage to give it that Alabama kick.
Conecuh Sausage Tacos
Looking for a quick and easy taco filling? Conecuh sausage to the rescue! Just crumble and cook the sausage like you would ground beef. Load it into tortillas with your favorite taco toppings—shredded lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream—and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Conecuh Sausage as a Versatile Ingredient: Snacks, Appetizers, and Soups
Conecuh sausage isn’t just for grilling! Its distinctive smoky flavor makes it a great addition to snacks, appetizers, and even comforting soups. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Conecuh Sausage Dip
For a crowd-pleasing dip, cook up some Conecuh sausage, crumble it, and combine it with cream cheese, sour cream, and your favorite shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work great!). Bake until bubbly and serve warm with crackers, tortilla chips, or even fresh veggies for dipping. The creamy texture and smoky sausage are a winning combination.
Conecuh Sausage Skewers
Thread chunks of Conecuh sausage onto skewers with colorful bell peppers, onions, and juicy cherry tomatoes. You can grill these skewers for a smoky char or bake them in the oven. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs adds even more flavor. These are perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal.
Conecuh Sausage and White Bean Soup
For a hearty and flavorful soup, try adding diced Conecuh sausage to a white bean soup. Sauté some carrots, celery, and onions as a base, then add canned white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), chicken broth, and the Conecuh sausage. Simmer until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
Grilling with Conecuh Sausage
Conecuh sausage and a grill are a match made in culinary heaven. The smoky flavors of the sausage are enhanced by the char and sizzle of the grill. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Simple Grilled Conecuh Sausage
For a quick and easy meal, simply toss a few Conecuh sausages on the grill. Use medium heat and turn them frequently to get an even char without burning. They’re done when heated through and slightly browned. Serve them on buns, with slaw, or just on their own!
Conecuh Sausage and Vegetable Kabobs
Thread chunks of Conecuh sausage onto skewers with your favorite vegetables: bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes all work well. Marinate the kabobs in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and a dash of vinegar for extra flavor. Grill until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Conecuh Sausage Burgers
Remove the sausage from its casing and form it into patties. Grill the patties like you would a regular burger, flipping once or twice until cooked through. Top with your favorite burger fixings: cheese, onions, peppers, and your favorite condiments.
In Closing
As you can see, Conecuh sausage is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re grilling it on its own, using it to add a smoky kick to a simple soup, or incorporating it into a more elaborate dish, Conecuh sausage delivers a distinctive flavor that’s hard to beat.
I hope these recipes have inspired you to experiment in your own kitchen and discover your favorite ways to enjoy this Southern staple.
Conecuh sausage is easy to use, packed with flavor, and capable of transforming even the most ordinary meal into something truly special. So, go ahead, grab a pack and get cooking! I think you’ll agree that Conecuh sausage is a delicious addition to any recipe.