Big Mac Sausage Popper Boats

Why You’ll Love Big Mac Sausage Popper Boats Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it combines familiar burger-style flavors with a creative presentation. I like how the sausages stay juicy while the cream cheese melts into the center and the toppings add crunch and freshness. I also appreciate how versatile this dish is, working perfectly as both an appetizer and a main course.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Sausage:
▢6-8 Beef Sausages
▢12-16 oz Cream Cheese sliced into 2 oz cubes
▢2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
▢12-16 Pickled Jalapeños Slices
▢6-8 Dill Pickles sliced
▢2 tbsp Favorite Burger Seasoning

Toppings:
▢1 cup Finely Diced White Onions
▢1 cup Shredded Lettuce
▢Special Sauce see below

Special Sauce:
▢½ cup Mayonnaise
▢⅛ cup White Vinegar
▢2.5 tbsp Yellow Mustard
▢1.5 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish
▢¾ tbsp Paprika
▢½ tbsp Onion Powder
▢½ tbsp Kosher Salt
▢½ tbsp Garlic Powder

Directions

I start by mixing all the special sauce ingredients together in a bowl until smooth, then set it aside. Next, I gently slice each sausage lengthwise and press it open with my fingers to form a sturdy boat shape, keeping the sides higher than the center.

I place a 2-ounce cube of cream cheese into the middle of each sausage, then top it with pickled jalapeños and dill pickle slices. I season them with my favorite burger seasoning and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape.

I preheat the grill for indirect cooking at around 300°F. Once ready, I cook the sausage popper boats until they reach 165°F internally, which usually takes about 1 to 1½ hours. During the last 10 minutes, I add shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt. I remove them from the grill and let them rest briefly.

To finish, I top each sausage with shredded lettuce, finely diced onions, and a drizzle of the special sauce. I slice, serve, and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

I usually serve this recipe for about 4 people. Prep time takes me around 30 minutes, cook time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the total time comes to roughly 2 hours.

Variations

I sometimes swap cheddar cheese for American cheese when I want a more classic burger-style flavor. When I’m craving extra heat, I add more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the special sauce. I’ve also tried adding sesame seeds on top for an extra nod to burger flavors.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm them gently in the oven or on the grill until heated through, then add fresh lettuce and sauce before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these in the oven instead of on a grill?

I bake them at 300°F until they reach 165°F internally.

What type of sausage works best?

I prefer sausages that are firm and easy to shape without breaking.

Can I prep these ahead of time?

I often assemble them earlier in the day and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Is the special sauce spicy?

I find it tangy and savory with only mild warmth.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

I can, but the filling won’t be as rich or creamy.

How do I keep the filling from spilling out?

I press the sausage sides firmly and avoid overfilling the center.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I don’t recommend freezing fully assembled poppers, as the texture can change.

What can I serve with these?

I like pairing them with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.

Are these good for parties?

I love serving these because they’re easy to slice and share.

Can I make them less spicy?

I simply reduce or omit the jalapeños.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to these Big Mac Sausage Popper Boats because they’re fun, filling, and packed with flavor. The creamy filling, savory sausage, and classic toppings make this a recipe I enjoy cooking and sharing again and again.