How to Grill Sausage on Gas Grill? Tips For Grilling Sausage
Summer is one of the best and most enjoyable times of the year. Nothing says summer like a warm barbecue in your backyard with family and friends, sharing laughs while sipping on ice-cold drinks as you enjoy each other’s company. If you’re like us, one of your all-time favorite treats to grill are sausages!
Cooking sausage on a gas grill isn’t difficult; it just takes a few tips that will result in juicy and perfectly cooked links every time. In this post, we will discuss step-by-step how to easily achieve that perfect flavor for your weekend grilling get-togethers.
What is a Sausage?
Sausages are popular in many different cuisines, and there’s a huge variety of them available. For the purposes of this post, we will be discussing how to grill sausage made from pork or beef that is stuffed into casings. These sausages can be plain or flavored with spices like sage and garlic. They can be purchased fresh or smoked and are available in links, patties, and bulk.
Most Popular Kinds of Sausages:
1. Italian Sausage:
Italian sausage is one of the most popular types of sausages. This famous pork sausage originates from Italy, and is derived by finely mincing pork meat, fat, and an array of beneficial seasonings such as oregano, pepper, fennel, red pepper flakes and garlic. Italian sausage can be savory and spicy depending on the amount of seasoning added; but its bold flavors make it a favorite for many types of world cuisines.
In addition to being eaten on its own or paired with vegetables, Italian sausage can also be used in pasta dishes such as spaghetti alla carbonara or in a classic pizza topping combo. The versatility and great taste found in this spicy pork-based sausage makes it one of the most beloved sausages around!
2. Bratwurst:
The bratwurst is one of the most popular sausages around, with its origins likely stemming from the 15th century in German-speaking countries. It is usually made of pork and sometimes beef mixed with spices and seasonings like nutmeg, coriander, garlic, pepper, or mace.
Bratwurst can be boiled, grilled, smoked and even barbecued – making it incredibly versatile and delicious. Cooks can also stuff them, add cooked onion and other vegetables while grilling or smoking, slice them up into smaller pieces and pan-fry them as a side dish to accompany a classic dinner plate meal. No matter how you choose to cook the bratwurst sausage – a delicious feast awaits!
3. Chorizo Smoked Sausage:
Chorizo Smoked Sausage is one of the most popular types of sausages in countries spanning from Spain to Mexico. Its unique flavor stems from its traditional blend of spices which can vary depending on where it’s made and what region you’re from.
The main unique flavors come from its distinctive combination of dried chilies, garlic, and smoked paprika. It has a very smokey taste that can make any meal special. It’s often served as an accompaniment to dishes such as omelets or roasted potatoes and also used a filling for empanadas or tacos. Chorizo Smoked Sausage’s versatility makes it an excellent choice when looking to add some interesting flavor to your meals!
4. Andouille Smoked Sausage:
Andouille smoked sausage, hailed from France originally and most popular in Louisiana, is the king of smoky and spicy sausages. Traditionally made with pork, it has a rough texture with a powerful blend of seasonings that vary depending on region.
This includes garlic, ground mustard seeds, lemon peel, onion powder, thyme or sage, cayenne pepper and white pepper. Andouille smoked sausage is widely used in Cajun cuisine for dishes such as Jambalaya or gumbo. It’s an excellent addition to omelets and can also be added to sauces and stews for delicious flavor.
5. Kielbasa Sausage:
Kielbasa, one of the most popular kinds of sausages, is a large Polish-style smoked sausage usually made from pork. Its name is derived from the Old Slavic words “Klubas” and “Klobas,” which describe the traditional preparation method that involves stuffing and smoking the sausage. Kielbasa originated in Central Europe but can now be found all around the world.
It’s an incredibly versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different recipes and styles like fried with potatoes or added to soups and stews. The richness of taste depends on additional ingredients such as spices, smoke flavorings, honey, brown sugar, wine, garlic, onion powder and mustard seed used in its preparation process. Kielbasa is a great source of protein and vitamins for all ages!
What is needed to Grill Sausages Perfectly:
Grilling sausages perfectly requires careful attention to both the food itself and the equipment used. First, sausages should be of a high quality, ensuring maximum flavor potential. Second, a good grilling environment is necessary – cook on medium-high heat and keep the tray or grill away from direct flames.
Third, constant monitoring is key: turn them often and make sure not to overcook. Finally, use some sort of fat – butter, oil or lard gently brushed onto the sausage will help them attain perfect golden-brown charring on the outside while staying juicy and flavorful on the inside. Follow these simple rules for succulent, delicious grilled sausages every time.
What is a Gas Grill?
A gas grill is a popular type of stove that uses natural gas as its fuel source. Natural gas is cleaner than propane or charcoal, and it has a longer lifespan than either of those fuels.
Gas grills are perfect for cooking large quantities of food at once. You can cook steaks, chicken breasts, burgers, and even fish on a gas grill. The heat is evenly distributed across the surface of the grill, so your food will be evenly cooked without having to babysit it.
If you want to prepare smaller meals or just enjoy some grilled foods outdoors, a portable gas grill is the perfect option for you. These grills are easy to transport and set up, so you can cook your meals wherever you happen to be.
How to Grill Sausage on Gas Grill?
5-Easy Steps for Sausage Links to Grill Perfectly:
Step 1:
Grilling sausage links is easy and with a few simple steps you can get perfect sausages every time. Before getting started, make sure to preheat the grill and brush it lightly with oil. The next step is to place the sausages on the preheated and oiled grill. Additionally, keep in mind that sausage links will cook quickly so should be placed far enough away from hot spots on the grill. Flip the sausages over after about 5 minutes and continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes or until juices run clear when cut into with a knife.
Step 2:
Step 2 is a crucial step in grilling perfect sausage links. The grill should be preheated to medium heat, which is approximately 350°F. This will allow the sausage links ample time to cook evenly throughout. Furthermore, leaving the grill at a consistent medium heat ensures that the food does not burn or become overly cooked on the outside before being cooked thoroughly on the inside. As an additional safety measure, be sure to cover any flare-ups with a lid to avoid burning the sausages and overcooking them.
Step 3:
Step 3 is quite straightforward – cook the sausage links. Make sure to turn the sausage links often and keep an eye on them throughout the process. You’ll want to wait until the sausages are grilled evenly on both sides and have achieved a warm, golden-brown color with a crispy outer layer. This should take 15 – 20 minutes on medium heat. Remember to use tongs or long grilling forks when flipping each link as this will ensure even cooking without tearing apart the delicate sausages.
Step 4:
The fourth step in grilling sausage links is to turn the sausages over. To do this, use a long barbecue fork with moderate pressure to avoid piercing the skins of the sausages and allow them to release their natural juices. Once turned over, move the sausages around on the grill as needed for even cooking.
Depending on the type of sausage, you may want to rotate them more than once. Make sure that both sides become slightly golden brown before removing from heat. This fourth step helps ensure that the flavorful juices of your sausage links don’t stay inside and instead roast up nicely to create a delicious snack.
Final Step:
With these five easy steps, your sausage links will be expertly grilled and ready for the dinner table. Whether you prefer them crispy or more tender, following this advice will help you achieve the perfect result. Begin by preheating the grill to a medium heat before lightly oiling it. Next, lay the sausage links on the hot grates directly diagonally from each other as this helps keep them from curling up as they cook. Allow them to cook for about 20 minutes flipping continually until both sides are browned and evenly cooked through.
If extra crispiness is desired, brush with extra oil before flipping. Lastly, remove sausages once they have achieved your desired level of doneness and let them cool completely before serving. With these five steps you can guarantee perfectly grilled sausage links every time!
What Sides to Serve with These Sausages?
There are many delicious side dishes that pair well with grilled sausage links. Some ideas include:
-Coleslaw or potato salad
-Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions
-Pasta salads or casseroles
-Baked macaroni and cheese
-Brown rice or quinoa
-Homemade barbecue sauce or dipping sauces, such as mustard and ketchup
-Rolls or crusty bread for dipping in the cooked sausage juices
Whatever side dish you choose, grilled sausage links are sure to be a hit with family and friends! So, fire up that grill and get cooking today.
What Is the Best Sausage for Grilling?
When it comes to grilling, there is one food item that stands out above the rest – sausage. Sausages offer a classic taste to any barbecue and can take on an array of flavors depending on the type of sausage and added seasonings. When choosing the best sausage for grilling, look no further than freshly made bratwurst or Italian style sausages. Both these types of sausages come in a variety of flavors, allowing for endless flavor combinations.
Bratwursts are generally made with pork, veal, beef and spices but vary in taste from region to region. Italian style sausages are generally strongly seasoned with garlic, chili pepper flakes and fennel seed which gives them a slightly spicy flavor and aroma. Whichever type you choose to grill, you can be sure that your grilled sausage will be juicy, savory and unforgettable.
How to Prepare Sausage for Grilling?
Grilling sausages to perfection is easy! Start by taking the sausage out of its packaging and carefully slicing off any strings or thin plastic that holds it in place. Next, you’ll need to prepare the grill: heat it up and oiling the grates to avoid sticking. Sausage should be placed on a medium-high heat and left to cook for 8-10 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure thorough cooking. Use a probe thermometer if you have one and look for an internal temperature of 160°F.
To finish, serve with a delicious side of your choice—salad, potatoes or even a freshly made sandwich! With these simple steps, you’ll be sure to delight your friends and family with perfectly grilled sausage every time.
How to Pre-Cook Sausage?
There are a few different methods for pre-cooking sausage before grilling. You can simmer the sausages in water or beer until cooked through, pan fry them to brown the outsides, or roast them in the oven at 400 degrees F until fully cooked. Whatever method you choose, start by placing your sausages on a baking sheet and cook at about 450 degrees F for 10 Minutes.
EASY Tips for Sausage Links Grilled Perfectly…
- Heat your grill to medium-high before adding the sausages.
- Brush the links with a little vegetable oil or melted butter before placing them directly on the grates diagonally from each other. This will help prevent them from curling up as they cook.
- Cook for about 20 minutes, turning the sausage links every few minutes to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness – the internal temperature should be 160 degrees F or higher before removing from the grill.
- Let the cooked sausages cool completely before serving, either on their own or in a bun with your favorite toppings!
The Best Grill Temperature for Sausage
Whether you’re grilling bratwurst, hot dogs, or Italian-style sausages, the key to getting a perfectly-cooked and tender sausage is using the right grill temperature. For best results, we recommend setting your grill to medium-high heat with indirect cooking. This will help avoid burning the exterior of the sausage while keeping the inside nice and juicy. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to grill your sausages to perfection every time! What’s your favorite type of sausage? Let us know in the comments!
How Long to Grill Sausages?
The amount of time it takes to grill sausages depends on a few different factors, including the type of sausage you’re cooking and what temperature your grill is set to. Generally speaking, if you’re using a medium-high heat setting on your grill and grilling Italian or bratwurst sausages, you’ll need about 20-25 minutes for the sausages to be fully cooked through. However, it’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer if you have one so that you can check for doneness with greater accuracy.
How Do You Know a Sausage Is Cooked?
There are a few different methods for checking if a sausage is fully cooked. The most reliable way is to always use an instant-read thermometer, which you can use to check for doneness. For Italian or bratwurst sausages, the internal temperature should be 160 degrees F or higher. Another option is to cut into one of the sausages to check if it’s cooked through.
Should You Boil Sausage Before Grilling?
Some people prefer the extra flavor and moisture that comes from boiling, while others feel it can make the links tough and dry out. Ultimately, it’s up to personal preference as well as what type of sausage you’re cooking. For instance, bratwurst, Italian and other pre-cooked sausages do not necessarily need to be boiled before grilling.
However, if you’re using raw sausages that still contain a lot of liquid, boiling them for a few minutes before grilling might help keep them from becoming dry and rubbery. As always, the best way to know how long to grill sausages is to keep a close eye on them and use a meat thermometer if necessary.
Should You Puncture Sausage Before Grilling?
Some people like to puncture each sausage link before grilling, while others feel it’s not necessary. If you want a more evenly cooked sausage that doesn’t burst from the inside as it cooks, puncturing is a good option. However, if you’re planning to grill your sausages for 20 minutes or longer, puncturing isn’t always necessary as the sausages will release their own juices that help keep them moist and tender. Ultimately, whether or not you puncture your sausages is up to personal preference and what type of sausage you’re cooking.
FAQs
What is the best way to BBQ sausages?
The best way to BBQ sausages is a combination of an indirect, moderate heat and enough time to allow the meat to cook through without burning. This method allows the sausage to get brown and crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and flavorful on the inside. Starting sausages directly over high heat can lead to burnt exteriors before the insides have finished cooking.
To increase flavor and texture, consider briefly searing the sausages on direct heat first before transferring them off for slow cooking. A separate pan with liquid for those sausages that are prone to drying out can also be used. Grill marks are optional but can offer an attractive presentation. To ensure safe food handling, always use a food thermometer when cooking sausage and verify that it has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F before consuming.
How to grill sausage on BBQ?
Grilling sausage on a barbecue is an enjoyable task that can be done with ease. Begin by preheating your grill to a medium-high temperature, keeping the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat. Once the grill has preheated, use strong tongs to place the sausage on the grates of the barbecue being careful not to puncture or cut them.
Depending on the thickness and whether you are using raw or pre-cooked sausages, it can take 10-20 minutes for them to cook through – rotating regularly during this time for even cooking. When you can see char marks appearing and juices running clear from the center of each sausage, they are ready to eat! Enjoy your delicious grilled sausages at your next BBQ event.
Should you poke holes in sausage before grilling?
Grilling sausage can be a bit of a tricky endeavor, and there is some debate over whether or not it is necessary to poke holes into sausages before grilling them. Though you may have heard that poking holes prevents the casing from bursting while on the grill, this isn’t always the case. In fact, only certain types of sausages need the extra ventilation.
If you’re using fresh sausages with raw meat, you may want to poke several holes in the surface in order to ensure even cooking throughout, but if you’re using pre-cooked sausages, such as bratwurst or hot dogs, it is best to avoid it as they are already cooked and may end up drying out if pierced. Ultimately, the safest and most delicious way to cook sausage is to follow your recipe, but if all else fails, simply use caution and common sense when deciding whether or not to poke those holes.
How do you grill sausage without drying it out?
Grilling sausage is a great way to bring out its flavorful characteristics while adding a slight smoky taste. However, it can be tricky to get the perfect texture without it becoming overly dry. To prevent this, it’s important to monitor closely the amount of direct heat applied to sausage links and make sure that any flare-ups are quickly addressed.
In addition, reduce temperature through careful placement on the grills’ lowest possible setting and the use of indirect heat where applicable. To maintain moisture during grilling, wrap your sausage in foil or place onto a non-flammable tray before placing on the grill. Lastly, you can baste with butter or oil periodically as this will also assist with maintaining moisture and preserving its juicy goodness!
Do you leave the casing on the sausage when grilling?
Deciding whether or not to keep casing on when grilling sausage depends largely on the desired result. Many types of sausages come pre-smoked, pre-cooked, and sometimes even with the casing already off. Depending on which option you select, you may not have a choice as to whether to leave or remove the casing.
If you prefer a certain texture or flavor to your sausage, leaving the casing on while grilling can often help achieve those effects. Additionally, removing the casing can help cook and crisp up the sausage quicker due to increased surface area exposed to heat sources.
Should I oil sausage before grilling?
Oiling sausage before grilling can benefit your cooking experience in a few ways. Not only can it help keep things from sticking but also help with the crispiness. Additionally, oil imparts flavor, so depending on the type of oil you use, you can give your sausages an extra flavor boost. If you’re using olive or vegetable oil, then bear in mind that they have lower smoking points and need to be watched more closely while grilling to ensure they don’t burn.
The adjustment time for adding oil is about 5 minutes, so be sure to factor this into your overall cooking time. All in all, whether you decide to oil your sausages or not largely depends on preference—just be aware of both the pros and cons before making a decision!
How do you know when sausage is done grilling?
Grilling sausage is an art form, but determining when the sausage is done can be tricky. The key factor to pay attention to when grilling sausage is temperature. Most sausages require a minimum internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption. To measure the internal temperature of the sausage without slicing it open, use a digital thermometer and make sure it has penetrated into the center of the sausage.
For best results, be sure to check multiple spots throughout the sausage to ensure accurate readings. Keep in mind that when measuring internal temperatures with a digital thermometer, some loss of heat will occur while you are removing it from the grill and inserting it into the meat, so it’s always good practice to aim for higher temperatures than what may be listed as necessary on cooking instructions or recipes.
How long to grill raw sausage?
Grilling raw sausage is a great way to achieve a delicious balance of crispiness and smokiness. However, it can be tricky to determine just how long to grill them in order to get the desired results. The trick is to cook them slowly over low to medium heat – between 300°F and 375°F – in order for the fat inside the sausage to render out evenly. Depending on the thickness of the sausage, this can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes.
Although with thinner sausages, you may need less time, as with thicker ones more time may be required. Additionally, flipping them every 4-5 minutes will ensure that both sides are evenly cooked. Cook until their internal temperature reaches 165°F or higher in order for them to be safe for consumption.
Is it better to grill with the lid open?
Grilling with the lid open offers more control, allowing chefs to keep an eye on their food as it cooks. Not only is this a great way to avoid overcooking, but it can also increase the smoky flavor that defines classic outdoor grilling. Additionally, grilling with the lid open allows heat to escape so that temperatures don’t become too hot and can give you greater control overheat distribution. With all these benefits of grilling with the lid open, it’s easy to see why many experienced cooks take this route for optimal results!
Is it OK if my sausage is a little pink?
It is perfectly normal to notice a pink-hued hue in cooked sausage, however it can sometimes indicate that the product has not been cooked through properly. As such, it’s important to always check the package for safe cooking practices and rely on an internal thermometer to ensure that the sausage has reached an appropriate temperature.
The National Hot Dog and Sausage Council states that sausage should be cooked to 160°F internally and states that if there’s any noticed pinkness in raw or undercooked sausage, it should be discarded. Following these guidelines can help you maintain a safe food supply and reduce your risk of foodborne illnesses.
How to cook perfect sausages?
Cooking sausages to perfection can be tricky because even the slightest variation in temperature or timing can lead to unsatisfactory results. To ensure your sausages are cooked evenly and the flavors and spices come out perfectly, it is best to first cook them on high heat in a skillet or on a grill until they just begin to brown, then lower the heat and turn them often while they finish cooking.
Additionally, it’s important not to overcook them, as sausages will become tough if they go beyond an internal temperature of 160°F. This can be monitored using a reliable food thermometer which will help take the guesswork out of the cooking process and guarantee your sausages come out succulent and bursting with flavor each time!
Why is it called Doctor’s sausage?
Doctor’s sausage, also sometimes known as “doctor ska Salama”, is a traditional Croatian dish that originated in medieval times. It is said to have been given its name due to the fact that it was originally made by doctors and used as a remedy for various ailments.
Although the exact ingredients vary between different regions and recipes, doctor’s sausage is typically made from pork, beef or lamb and usually contains a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, pepper, marjoram and bay leaves. Today, this dish is enjoyed by people all over the world due to its rich flavor and hearty texture, making it a popular choice at potlucks and family gatherings.
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Conclusion
Sausage is a delicious and easy meat to grill, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure it comes out perfectly. First, always use direct heat when grilling sausage, as indirect heat will cause it to dry out. Second, be careful not to overcook your sausage – aim for an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, remember to give your sausage plenty of time to rest before cutting into it, as this will help ensure that all the juices stay locked inside. Follow these simple tips and enjoy grilled sausage all summer long!
References: How to Grill Sausage

I’m Calvert Carlson, and I’m a barbecue chef. I’ve been blogging about my recipes for magazines and online cooking publications for years now. My expertise is smoking meat and grilling recipes, and people often ask me for tips.
I love to cook outdoors on my smoker or grill – there’s just something about the taste of smoked or grilled meat that can’t be beat.
Thanks for reading!