Cooking sausage on a Blackstone griddle is a deliciously satisfying way to bring your breakfast, lunch, or dinner to life. This versatile cooking tool allows for even heat distribution, perfect for achieving that golden brown crust while keeping the juicy interior intact. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss how to perfectly cook sausage on a Blackstone griddle, explore different types of sausages, and provide some helpful tips to elevate your griddle cooking game.
Understanding Your Blackstone Griddle
Before you dive into cooking sausages, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with your Blackstone griddle. Unlike traditional pans, a griddle provides a larger cooking surface, which is ideal for cooking multiple sausages at once. Additionally, many models come equipped with features like adjustable burners, which allow you to control the heat efficiently.
Benefits of Using a Blackstone Griddle for Sausages
Using a Blackstone griddle for cooking sausage brings multiple advantages:
- Spacious Surface: A large cooking area allows you to cook several sausages simultaneously, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings.
- Even Cooking: The flat surface ensures that heat is distributed evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked sausages every time.
Selecting the Right Sausage
The first step in your sausage-cooking journey is choosing the right type of sausage. There’s a wide variety of sausages available, each with unique flavors and textures.
Types of Sausages to Cook on a Griddle
- Breakfast Sausage: Typically made from pork and mildly seasoned, these sausages are great for a hearty breakfast.
- Italian Sausage: Known for their bold flavors, Italian sausages can be sweet or spicy and are perfect for sandwiches or pasta dishes.
- Bratwurst: A popular German sausage, bratwurst is best served with sauerkraut or in a bun.
- Chicken Sausage: A healthier alternative, chicken sausage is leaner and can come in various flavors, from Italian to apple.
Tips for Choosing Quality Sausage
- Read Labels: Look for sausages with natural ingredients and without synthetic preservatives.
- Check Freshness: Always choose fresh sausages from a reputable butcher or grocery store.
Preparing Your Blackstone Griddle
Before cooking, it’s crucial to prepare your Blackstone griddle properly to achieve the best results.
Preheating the Griddle
Start by preheating your griddle. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Turn on the Burners: Set the burners to medium heat. This allows the entire surface to heat up evenly.
- Let it Heat: Allow the griddle to preheat for about 10–15 minutes. A well-preheated griddle helps create a nice sear on the sausages.
- Check the Temperature: You can use a few drops of water to test if the griddle is ready. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, you’re good to go.
Oiling the Griddle
Applying oil to the griddle is essential for preventing sticking. Here’s how to do it:
- Choose the Right Oil: Opt for oils with high smoke points, such as canola oil or avocado oil.
- Apply Evenly: Use a paper towel or a heat-resistant spatula to spread the oil evenly across the surface of the griddle.
Cooking Sausages on the Griddle
Now comes the most exciting part—cooking the sausages! Follow these steps for the best outcome.
Placing the Sausages on the Griddle
Once your griddle is preheated and oiled, it’s time to place the sausages on the surface.
- Arrange the Sausages: Place the sausages in a single layer on the griddle, leaving some space between each sausage to allow for even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking too many sausages at once can lower the temperature of the griddle, leading to uneven cooking.
Cooking Technique
- Searing: Initially, cook the sausages over medium heat to achieve a good sear. This typically takes about 3–5 minutes per side.
- Keep Turning: To ensure they cook evenly, turn the sausages every few minutes. This prevents them from burning and helps achieve that desired golden brown color.
Cooking Times for Different Sausages
| Sausage Type | Cooking Time |
|———————|————–|
| Breakfast Sausage | 10-12 minutes |
| Italian Sausage | 12-15 minutes |
| Bratwurst | 15-20 minutes |
| Chicken Sausage | 10-12 minutes |
Checking for Doneness
Using a meat thermometer is crucial to ensure your sausages are cooked to the appropriate internal temperature.
- Sausage doneness temperatures:
- Pork Sausage: 160°F (71°C)
- Chicken Sausage: 165°F (74°C)
Make sure to insert the thermometer into the center of the sausage for an accurate reading.
Enhancing Flavor with Marinades and Seasonings
While sausages come pre-seasoned, marinades can elevate their flavor. Consider marinating your sausages for a few hours prior to cooking.
Simple Marinade Ideas
- Garlic and Herb Marinade: Mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, rosemary, and thyme.
- Sweet and Spicy Marinade: Combine brown sugar, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Once your sausages are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve them up! Here are some tempting ideas:
Plate Up Delicious Meals
- Breakfast Plate: Serve sausages with scrambled eggs and toast for a hearty breakfast.
- Italian Feast: Slice Italian sausage and toss with pasta, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese.
- Bratwurst Delight: Serve bratwurst in a bun with sauerkraut and mustard for an authentic meal.
Pairing Suggestions
- Beverages: Pair sausages with beer, orange juice, or sparkling water for a refreshing beverage option.
- Sides: Consider coleslaw, baked beans, or crispy fries as delightful side dishes.
Cleaning Your Blackstone Griddle
After enjoying a delicious sausage meal, it’s important to clean your griddle properly.
Steps for Cleaning
- Cool Down: Allow the griddle to cool slightly but not completely.
- Scrape the Surface: Use a metal spatula to scrape off any food remnants or grease.
- Wipe with Oil: Apply a bit of oil to a cloth and wipe down the surface to maintain the griddle’s seasoning.
Storage Tips
Make sure to store your griddle in a dry place to prevent rusting. If you live in a humid climate, consider covering it with a tarp designed for outdoor grills.
Final Thoughts on Cooking Sausages on a Blackstone Griddle
Cooking sausage on a Blackstone griddle is not only simple but also provides an excellent opportunity to explore various flavors and cooking techniques. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can serve up perfectly cooked sausages that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re preparing a big breakfast spread or a casual dinner, your Blackstone griddle will become your go-to cooking companion. Enjoy the process, experiment with different sausages, and make each meal a memorable experience!
What types of sausages can I cook on a Blackstone griddle?
You can cook a variety of sausages on a Blackstone griddle, including breakfast sausages, Italian sausages, bratwurst, and chorizo, among others. Each type boasts its own distinctive flavor and texture. The griddle’s consistent heat allows for even cooking, ensuring that sausages are perfectly browned on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
In addition to these popular varieties, you can also explore specialty sausages such as chicken sausages or plant-based alternatives. The versatility of a Blackstone griddle makes it suitable for any sausage that you enjoy, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and combinations. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the type of sausage for the best results.
How do I prepare sausage for cooking on a Blackstone griddle?
Before cooking sausages on a Blackstone griddle, it’s important to prepare them properly to ensure optimal flavor and texture. Start by removing the sausages from their packaging and, if they are linked, cut them apart. You can also poke a few small holes in the casing to prevent them from bursting while cooking. However, if you prefer juicier sausages, you might choose to skip this step.
Next, consider seasoning your sausages with your choice of spices or marinades. While many store-bought sausages are already seasoned, adding a little extra flavor can elevate the dish. Allow the sausages to sit for a few minutes at room temperature before cooking to help them cook more evenly on the griddle.
What is the best temperature for cooking sausages on the griddle?
The ideal temperature for cooking sausages on a Blackstone griddle is medium to medium-high, typically around 350°F to 400°F. This temperature range ensures that the sausages cook through evenly without burning on the outside. Keeping the griddle at this temperature will also help achieve that desirable golden-brown crust while retaining the moisture within the sausage.
To check if the griddle has reached the right temperature, you can perform a water droplet test. Just sprinkle a few drops of water onto the griddle surface—if they dance and evaporate almost immediately, it’s ready. If you find that the sausages are browning too quickly without cooking through, reduce the heat slightly and adjust as necessary.
How long do I need to cook sausages on a Blackstone griddle?
Cooking times for sausages on a Blackstone griddle can vary depending on their size and thickness. On average, most sausages will require about 12 to 15 minutes of cooking time. It’s essential to turn the sausages frequently during cooking to ensure even browning and to prevent them from sticking to the griddle surface.
To ensure that your sausages are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. Sausages should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for pork or beef and 165°F for chicken sausages. This will guarantee that they are safe to eat while remaining juicy and flavorful.
Can I cook sausages with other foods on a Blackstone griddle?
Yes, one of the advantages of using a Blackstone griddle is its large cooking surface, which allows you to prepare multiple foods simultaneously. You can cook sausages alongside onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables to create a delicious one-pan meal. This not only saves time but also enhances the overall flavor of your dish, as the sausages will infuse the veggies with their savory juices.
Make sure to arrange the foods appropriately on the griddle, considering their cooking times. Place sausages on one side and the vegetables on the other, adjusting the heat as necessary to ensure everything cooks evenly. Keeping an eye on each item will help you avoid overcooking or burning any of the ingredients.
How do I clean my Blackstone griddle after cooking sausages?
Cleaning a Blackstone griddle after cooking sausages is relatively simple, especially if you follow a few key steps. Allow the griddle to cool down slightly after cooking, but while it’s still warm, use a stainless-steel spatula to scrape off any food residue and grease. This will help lift off any stuck bits and make the cleaning process easier.
Once most of the residue is removed, you can use a mixture of hot water and a few drops of dish soap to wipe down the surface with a griddle scraper or non-abrasive scrubber. Be sure to rinse well and dry the griddle to prevent rusting. Regular maintenance will keep your Blackstone griddle in excellent condition and ready for your next sausage-cooking adventure.