When it comes to outdoor cooking, few tools are as versatile and efficient as the Blackstone griddle. Known for their expansive cooking surface and exceptional heat retention, these griddles can make meals that are both delicious and fun to prepare. One of the most popular foods to cook on a Blackstone griddle is sausage. Whether you’re making a hearty breakfast, whipping up a quick lunch, or grilling up some dinner, the griddle makes sausage cooking a breeze. In this article, we will delve deep into how to cook sausage on a Blackstone griddle, providing you with tips, tricks, and everything you need for perfectly cooked sausages every time.
Understanding Your Blackstone Griddle
Before diving into the cooking process, it is essential to understand the features of your Blackstone griddle. Here are a few key points to note:
The Cooking Surface
The cooking surface of a Blackstone griddle is generally made of cold-rolled steel. This material provides a smooth, even surface for cooking, allowing for excellent heat distribution. The large surface area can accommodate multiple sausages at once, ideal for entertaining or meal prepping.
Heat Control
A great feature of the Blackstone griddle is its independent heat controls. Depending on the model, you can control the heat of different sections of the griddle, allowing for a mix of cooking temperatures. This functionality is perfect for multi-tasking, such as sautéing vegetables while searing sausage.
Selecting the Right Sausage
Not all sausages are created equal. The type of sausage you choose can significantly influence the outcome of your meal. Here are a few popular options:
- Breakfast Sausage: Typically made from pork and seasoned with sage, these are small links or patties ideal for breakfast dishes.
- Italian Sausage: Often enjoyed in pasta dishes or with peppers and onions, these sausages come in sweet or spicy varieties.
Choosing high-quality sausages, whether they’re fresh from a butcher or a local store, will improve the taste and texture of your meals.
Preparing the Blackstone Griddle
Before you start cooking, you need to ensure your Blackstone griddle is ready. Preparation plays a crucial role in achieving that perfectly cooked sausage.
Cleaning the Surface
Before cooking, make sure your griddle is clean. Scrape off any leftover food from previous cooking sessions using a griddle scraper. A clean surface helps to avoid any unwanted flavors and ensures better cooking results.
Preheating the Griddle
Preheat your Blackstone griddle for approximately 10-15 minutes on medium heat. You want the surface to reach around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Use an infrared thermometer for accuracy. A properly heated surface allows the sausage to sear effectively, locking in flavors and moisture.
Cooking Sausage on a Blackstone Griddle
Cooking sausage on your Blackstone griddle is straightforward, but doing it correctly will yield the best results.
Step-by-Step Guide
Oil the Griddle Surface: Use a high-smoke point oil such as canola or avocado oil to lightly coat the cooking surface. This will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Place the Sausage: Lay the sausages on the griddle with enough space between each to allow for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the griddle to maintain a good cooking temperature.
Sear the Sausages: Allow the sausages to cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for developing a nice brown crust.
Flip and Cook Thoroughly: Once you notice a golden-brown color forming on one side, it’s time to flip the sausages. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes. Generally, sausages should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit for pork sausages and 165 degrees Fahrenheit for poultry sausages.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Once the sausages reach the desired temperature, remove them from the griddle.
Rest the Sausages: Let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and improve the overall flavor and texture.
Enhancing Flavor with Toppings
Sausages can be enjoyed in various ways, and toppings can elevate your dish even further. Here are some popular ideas:
Vegetables
Grilling vegetables alongside your sausages is a fantastic way to add color and nutritious value to your meal. Bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms work exceptionally well. Simply slice them, season with salt and pepper (or your favorite herbs), and cook them on the griddle until tender.
Condiments
Don’t forget about the finishing touches! Classic condiments such as mustard, ketchup, or BBQ sauce can enhance the flavor of your sausage dish. You can also try gourmet options like spicy aioli or homemade relishes for a unique twist.
Cleaning Up After Cooking
After you have enjoyed your delicious meal, it’s essential to properly clean your Blackstone griddle. Here’s how to maintain your griddle for longevity:
Scrape Off Residue
While the griddle is still warm (but not too hot to handle), use a scraper to remove any food particles stuck on the surface. This step is crucial in preventing build-up.
Use Water to Steam Clean
To further clean the surface, you can pour a small amount of water onto the hot griddle. The steam will help lift any stubborn residue. Scrub the surface with a grill brush to achieve a clean finish.
Conclusion
Cooking sausage on a Blackstone griddle is not just simple – it’s an experience that allows you to create delicious and hearty meals for yourself and your loved ones. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve perfectly cooked sausage every time, whether you’re crafting a breakfast spread, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying dinner.
With a range of sausage types available and endless possibilities for toppings and sides, the Blackstone griddle serves as your canvas for countless culinary masterpieces. So fired up your griddle, get your sausages cooking, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of perfectly cooked sausage!
What types of sausage can I cook on a Blackstone griddle?
You can cook a variety of sausages on a Blackstone griddle, including fresh sausages like Italian, bratwurst, or chorizo, as well as smoked sausages such as andouille or kielbasa. Each type offers its own unique flavors and textures, allowing you to experiment and find your favorites. Consider using both pork and chicken sausages, as they can cook differently and present varied taste profiles.
When choosing sausages, it’s essential to consider their fat content and casing. Sausages with a higher fat content may require careful temperature control to prevent flare-ups. Additionally, some sausages with natural casings can crisp up nicely on a griddle, imparting a delightful texture and flavor. The versatility of the Blackstone griddle allows you to explore these diverse options effortlessly.
How do I prepare the griddle for cooking sausage?
Preparing the Blackstone griddle for cooking sausage involves preheating it properly. Start by turning on the griddle and setting it to a medium-high heat. Allow it to heat up for about 10-15 minutes until it’s hot enough for cooking. Proper preheating ensures even cooking and prevents the sausages from sticking to the surface.
Once preheated, you should season the griddle surface lightly with oil. A high-heat oil, such as canola or avocado oil, works well for this purpose. Then, use a paper towel or cloth to spread the oil evenly over the cooking surface. This preparation step creates a non-stick environment, making it easier to cook the sausages evenly and achieve that perfect sear.
What is the best cooking temperature for sausage on a Blackstone griddle?
The best cooking temperature for sausages on a Blackstone griddle is around 300 to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This moderate heat allows the sausages to cook through evenly without burning the outside. Higher temperatures may lead to the casing becoming too crispy while leaving the inside undercooked, which can be a food safety concern.
To ensure optimal results, use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature of the sausage reaches at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit for pork and beef sausages, or 165 degrees for poultry sausages. Cooking them slowly will ensure they retain their juiciness and flavor, resulting in a delicious meal every time.
How long does it take to cook sausage on a Blackstone griddle?
Cooking sausage on a Blackstone griddle typically takes around 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sausage and the cooking temperature. Smaller links or patties may cook faster, while larger sausages may require more time. It’s crucial to keep an eye on the sausages and flip them occasionally for even cooking.
To ensure they reach the desired doneness, you can slice one open towards the end of the cooking time to check for internal color and juices. The sausages should be a uniform color throughout and the juices should run clear, indicating that they are fully cooked. Consistently monitoring the sausages will help you achieve perfectly cooked results.
Should I pierce the sausages before cooking them?
It’s generally not recommended to pierce sausages before cooking them, as this can cause the juices to escape during the cooking process. Maintaining the integrity of the casing helps lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in a juicier and more satisfying sausage. Instead, focus on cooking them at the right temperature and flipping them as needed for even heat distribution.
However, if you are working with sausages that are known to have a thicker casing and you prefer a crispier texture, you can make a few shallow cuts on the surface. This will allow for some juice to escape, while still keeping most of the moisture inside the sausage. Just be cautious with this approach to avoid drying them out.
How can I enhance the flavor of sausage while cooking on a Blackstone griddle?
Enhancing the flavor of your sausage on a Blackstone griddle can be achieved through various means. One way is by marinating the sausages before cooking or seasoning them with spices and herbs. Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even some crushed garlic can complement the savory flavors of the sausage and add depth to your dish.
Another method is to add other ingredients to the griddle while cooking, such as sliced onions, peppers, or mushrooms. These not only enhance the overall flavor but also create a delicious base to accompany the sausages. The combination of sausage and sautéed veggies offers a fulfilling and hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.