Cooking sausage on a griddle is an easy and effective way to achieve a delicious and perfectly cooked meal. Whether you’re preparing breakfast for your family, hosting a brunch with friends, or looking for a quick weeknight dinner option, griddled sausage can play a starring role on your table. This article will delve into handy techniques, tips, and recipes related to cooking sausage on a griddle that will help you elevate your culinary skills.
Why Choose a Griddle for Cooking Sausages?
Griddles offer a flat, smooth cooking surface that provides several advantages when preparing sausage:
- Even Heat Distribution: Griddles provide consistent heat across the cooking surface, essential for achieving an evenly cooked sausage without hot spots.
- Fat Draining: The slight incline of many griddles allows excess fat to drain away from the sausage, resulting in a less greasy final product.
- Versatile Cooking Area: Large griddles can accommodate multiple sausages at once, making them perfect for cooking for a crowd.
Whether you’re using a stovetop griddle, an electric one, or a grill-like griddle over an open flame, the right preparation and technique can make all the difference.
Choosing the Right Sausage
Before you hit the griddle, it’s important to choose the right type of sausage. Here are some factors to consider:
Types of Sausage
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Breakfast Sausage: Usually made from pork, these sausages are seasoned with sage, pepper, and other spices. They’re usually smaller and perfect for breakfast servings.
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Italian Sausage: Available in sweet and spicy varieties, these sausages can be cooked whole or sliced and are marvelous for pasta dishes or sandwiches.
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Bratwurst: A German sausage that is typically made from pork or veal, bratwurst has a coarse texture and is excellent for grilling and cooking on a griddle.
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Chicken or Turkey Sausage: A leaner alternative, these sausages are perfect for those looking to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor.
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Plant-Based Sausage: A great option for vegetarians or those looking to cut down on animal products, veggie sausages can be cooked similarly to traditional sausages.
Fresh vs. Cooked Sausage
You’ll also want to differentiate between fresh sausage and pre-cooked sausage:
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Fresh Sausage: These sausages require careful cooking until they reach the necessary internal temperature to ensure safety and flavor.
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Pre-cooked Sausage: These sausages are already cooked and only need to be heated through, making them quicker to prepare.
Choosing the right sausage will help you achieve the best flavor and texture for your dish.
Essential Tools for Griddle Cooking
To achieve the best results when cooking sausage on a griddle, gather the following tools:
- Griddle: Whether electric or stovetop, choose a griddle with a non-stick surface for easy cooking and cleanup.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula is essential for flipping sausages and keeping them intact.
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: This will ensure that your sausages are fully cooked to safe temperatures.
- Cooking Spray or Oil: To prevent sticking, apply a light coat of non-stick spray or a few drops of cooking oil.
How to Cook Sausage on a Griddle
Now that you have your sausages and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking sausage on a griddle.
Step 1: Preheat the Griddle
Start by preheating your griddle on medium heat. It’s essential to let the griddle warm up for around 5-10 minutes before cooking. This helps create that coveted golden brown crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage
If you’re using fresh sausage links, you may want to pierce them with a fork. This helps to prevent them from bursting while cooking. If you’re dealing with pre-cooked sausages, there’s no need to do this step.
Step 3: Apply Oil to the Griddle
To keep the sausages from sticking, spray or brush the griddle surface with a light coating of cooking spray or vegetable oil. This is particularly important if you’re using a griddle that isn’t non-stick.
Step 4: Arrange the Sausage on the Griddle
Place the sausages on the griddle, allowing space between each piece. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking.
Cooking Fresh Sausage
- Allow the sausages to cook undisturbed for about 4-6 minutes on one side.
- Flip them using a spatula once they’ve developed a nice brown crust.
- Continue cooking for another 4-6 minutes.
Cooking Pre-Cooked Sausage
- For pre-cooked sausages, heat them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are hot and golden brown.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Using an instant-read meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the sausages. Fresh sausage should reach a minimum of 160°F (71°C) for pork and 165°F (74°C) for poultry. Pre-cooked sausages should be heated to at least 140°F (60°C) for safe consumption.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once cooked, remove the sausages from the griddle and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful sausages.
Delicious Sausage Recipes to Try
Now that you know how to cook sausage on a griddle, let’s look at a couple of scrumptious recipes that highlight your culinary achievements.
Classic Breakfast Sausage and Eggs
Ingredients:
– 4 fresh breakfast sausage links
– 4 large eggs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausages on the griddle following the steps mentioned above.
2. While the sausages are cooking, crack the eggs onto the griddle next to the sausages.
3. Season eggs with salt and pepper, and cook to your desired doneness.
4. Serve together, garnished with parsley if desired.
Italian Sausage and Pepper Skillet
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausage links (sweet or spicy)
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– Olive oil
– Italian seasoning, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the griddle and prepare it as directed.
2. Place the sausages on one side of the griddle and cook until browned.
3. On the other side, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the sliced peppers and onion until softened.
4. When the sausages are fully cooked, slice them into pieces and mix with the sautéed veggies.
5. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and serve hot.
Griddled Sausage Pairing Ideas
Once you’ve mastered cooking sausage on a griddle, consider pairing your delicious creation with complementary sides and drinks. Here are some pairing suggestions:
Perfect Pairings:
- Breakfast: Serve with pancakes, waffles, or fresh fruit.
- Lunch/Dinner: Enjoy with crusty bread or in a sub sandwich with sautéed onions and peppers.
- Beverages: A refreshing mimosa for brunch or a crafty local beer for lunch or dinner.
Tips for the Perfect Griddled Sausage
- Do Not Rush: Cooking slowly at medium heat keeps the sausage juicy and flavorful.
- Don’t Flip Too Soon: Allowing enough time for the first side to brown creates a lovely crust.
- Experiment with Spice: You can enhance the flavor of your sausages by sprinkling some additional herbs or spices during the cooking process.
Conclusion
Cooking sausage on a griddle is a simple yet rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy a variety of flavors and styles. From fresh breakfast sausages to savory Italian links, learning how to properly griddle sausage can lead to endless culinary possibilities. With the techniques above, along with your creativity in the kitchen, you can impress family and friends alike with perfectly cooked sausages every time. So grab your griddle, your favorite sausages, and start mastering this delicious cooking method today!
What types of sausage are best for griddling?
The best types of sausage for griddling are generally breakfast sausages, Italian sausages, and bratwursts. Breakfast sausages are small and cook quickly, making them ideal for a griddle. Italian sausages, either sweet or spicy, hold their shape well and offer a great flavor when cooked on a flat surface. Bratwursts are thicker and benefit from the consistent heat of a griddle, allowing for a delicious crust while keeping the inside juicy.
Another great option is precooked sausages, which can be reheated quickly on a griddle. This also includes chicken or turkey sausages for those looking for a leaner alternative. Ultimately, choose sausages that hold up well to direct heat and match your flavor preferences, as the griddle will enhance the natural taste of the meat.
How should I prepare the sausages before grilling?
Before grilling sausages on a griddle, it’s essential to prepare them properly to ensure they are cooked evenly. Start by removing the sausages from their packaging and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture, ensuring that the sausages can sear properly without steaming. If you’re working with links, you may also consider pricking them with a fork to allow some fat to escape, which helps in achieving a crispy exterior.
Consider marinating or seasoning the sausages prior to cooking for added flavor. You can create a simple marinade with olive oil, herbs, and spices. Allow the sausages to marinate for at least half an hour in the refrigerator. This step not only infuses flavor but can also help tenderize the meat, giving you a delicious result once you cook them on the griddle.
What temperature should the griddle be set to for cooking sausage?
For cooking sausage on a griddle, an optimal temperature is generally around 350°F to 375°F. This range allows the sausage to cook thoroughly without burning the exterior. If the temperature is too low, the sausages will take longer to cook and may end up being greasy. Conversely, if the temperature is too high, you risk the outside burning while the inside remains undercooked.
Using a griddle with temperature control is ideal, as you can monitor the heat and adjust as needed. It’s also wise to preheat the griddle for about 10 minutes before placing the sausages on it. A good tip is to use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the sausages during cooking; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for fully cooked pork or beef sausages.
How long does it take to cook sausage on a griddle?
Cooking times for sausage on a griddle can vary based on the type and thickness of the sausages. Typically, breakfast sausages take about 8 to 10 minutes, while larger sausages like bratwursts may require 12 to 15 minutes. Remember that every griddle is different, so it’s important to keep an eye on the sausages throughout the cooking process.
Turning the sausages regularly ensures even cooking and promotes a nice golden-brown color. To verify doneness, use a meat thermometer for accuracy; sausages should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If they need a little more time, reduce the heat slightly and allow them to cook through without burning.
Is it necessary to add oil or fat to the griddle?
Whether to add oil or fat to the griddle when cooking sausages depends on the type of sausage being used. Many sausages contain a significant amount of fat, which helps keep them moist and flavorful during cooking. In many cases, especially with fattier sausages, you may not need to add any extra oil; the natural fat will render out during cooking.
However, if you’re using leaner sausages or if your griddle is non-stick, adding a small amount of oil can help prevent sticking and provide an additional layer of flavor. Good options include olive oil, canola oil, or even a light coating of butter, depending on your taste preferences. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as too much oil can cause the sausages to become greasy.
Can I cook frozen sausages on a griddle?
Yes, you can cook frozen sausages on a griddle, but it requires a different approach to ensure they are cooked evenly and safely. If cooking from frozen, it’s advisable to keep the griddle temperature lower at around 300°F to avoid burning the exterior before the inside has had a chance to thaw. You can increase the temperature gradually as they begin to cook.
Keep in mind that cooking times will likely be longer when starting from frozen — often an additional 5 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sausages. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that they reach the recommended internal temperature of 160°F. While it’s convenient, thawing the sausages beforehand yields the best texture and flavor.
What are some great side dishes to serve with grilled sausage?
Sausages are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. A classic option is sautéed peppers and onions, which add a sweet and savory balance to the sausage’s rich flavors. You can easily cook them on the griddle at the same time; just slice the vegetables and toss them in a little oil and seasoning before adding them to the hot griddle.
Another delicious option is griddled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob. These can be cooked alongside the potatoes or wrapped up in a tortilla for a hearty meal. Additionally, consider serving a refreshing coleslaw or potato salad on the side for a perfect complement to the savory sausage. The freshness of a salad balances the richness of the meat and adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.
How can I tell when the sausage is fully cooked?
To determine if sausage is fully cooked, the most reliable method is using an instant-read meat thermometer. For pork and beef sausages, the internal temperature should reach 160°F, while poultry sausages should be cooked to at least 165°F. Inserting the thermometer into the thickest part of the sausage will give you an accurate reading, ensuring they are cooked through without being dry.
Another method is to check the color and juices. Cooked sausage should be brown on the outside and a light pink color on the inside, with juices running clear rather than pink. However, relying solely on color can be misleading, especially with certain kinds of sausages. Therefore, using a thermometer is always recommended for safety and peace of mind.