Pepperjack Cheese Sausage (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 lb ground pork
02 - 1/2 cup pepperjack cheese, shredded
03 - 1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
04 - 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
08 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
11 - Sausage casings (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine ground pork, pepperjack cheese, jalapeños, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
02 - If using casings, soak them in water according to package instructions. Rinse thoroughly and set aside.
03 - If using casings, carefully stuff the sausage mixture into the prepared casings using a sausage stuffer. Tie the ends securely and twist to create links of desired length.
04 - Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook sausages for 6-8 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) and develop a nice brown exterior.
05 - Allow sausages to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your preferred accompaniments or on a bun.

# Notes:

01 - For patties instead of links, shape the mixture into even-sized patties and cook as directed.
02 - The cheese will melt during cooking, creating pockets of flavor throughout the sausage.