Whether tailgating or celebrating Oktoberfest, fall is a time when the delicious smells of sausage and beer fill the air, which makes October the ideal time to celebrate National Sausage Month.

As one of the most versatile foods available, sausage can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a snack and is complimented by different types of beer - both to cook with or as a beverage. With so many styles of sausage and beer available, the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council (NHDSC) developed a beer and sausage pairing guide detailing which sausage and beer combinations offer the most complimentary flavors.

 “Sausage and beer together offer a unique treat for the senses that is incredibly satisfying,” said NHDSC President Eric Mittenthal. “Some sausage manufacturers are even offering beer infused sausages with the flavors cooked right into the sausage. But no matter how you are enjoying the two together, there are an array of options to meet different taste preferences.”

 Fourth Annual Recipe Seeks Sausage and Beer Combinations

As part of its celebration of National Sausage Month, the NHDSC is once again inviting sausage fans to submit their favorite sausage recipes for a chance to win free sausage, a sausage pan and other great prizes. The fourth annual sausage recipe contest isn’t open to just any sausage recipe, though. Recipes must include beer either as an ingredient, as part of the cooking instructions or as a complimentary beverage. Recipes must be able to be made in less than 20 minutes and should be submitted to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by October 20, 2018.

The best recipe as judged by NHDSC staff will win a $250 gift card for their favorite sausages plus a sausage pan, designed with deep curves specifically to cook sausages. The first runner up will receive a $100 gift card for their favorite sausages plus a sausage pan. The top three choices all receive official National Hot Dog and Sausage Council t-shirts and bumper stickers and have their recipes featured on the NHDSC All-Recipes page.

Previous contest winners include Sausage with Peppers and Spices on Puff Pastry, Breakfast Sausage Casserole and Italian Sausage Variety Ring.

The NHDSC has more than 100 recipes as well as a sausage glossary, cooking tips and more at www.hot-dog.org.