How to BBQ Sausages

Introduction

Sausages are a classic barbecue food that can be prepared in so many delicious ways. Grilling sausages over an open flame brings out their flavor and gives them that perfect char. Whether you prefer hearty smoked brats or spicy Italian links, cooking sausages on the barbecue is a fantastic way to add sizzle to your cookouts.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide tips and techniques for how to barbecue sausages to juicy, plump perfection. We’ll cover how to choose the right sausages, prep them for the grill, cook them properly, and serve them up with fantastic accompaniments. With these sausage grilling secrets, you’ll be sinking your teeth into the best bbq sausages ever. Let’s get cooking!

Choose High-Quality Sausages

The first step is selecting sausages that will hold up well on the grill. Here are some things to look for:

• Natural casings – Sausages encased in intestines or collagen will fare better than synthetic skins. The natural casings allow the sausages to cook evenly.
• Meat content – Choose sausages with a high ratio of meat to fat. Leaner sausages are less prone to flare-ups.
• Thickness – Thicker sausages around 2-3 inches in diameter will cook more evenly than skinny links.
• Freshness – Pick sausages that look plump and feel firm, not shriveled. Use pre-cooked sausages within 1 week or fresh sausages within 2 days.

Popular choices like bratwurst, Italian sausage, chorizo, kielbasa, andouille, and bangers are all excellent options. Go to a specialty butcher for the best quality.

Prep the Sausages

Properly preparing the sausages will ensure they cook perfectly on the barbecue:

• Remove casings (optional) – Slit and peel off casings for more surface area. Leave casings on for easier handling.
• Score the surface – Use a knife to lightly score diagonally across sausages to allow flavor in.
• Marinate (optional) – Soak sausages in a marinade for added flavor. Try oil, vinegar, herbs, spices, etc.
• Partially cook – Boil, simmer, or poach sausages first if using extra-thick links.
• Skewer or grill basket – Thread sausages onto skewers or place in a grill basket for easier turning.

Grill Sausages Over Direct Heat

The key to grilling sausages is using direct high heat. Follow these tips:

• Get grill very hot – Heat grill to 450-500°F. The flames or coals should be very hot.
• Lay sausages perpendicular – Position sausages diagonally across the grates for optimal char marks.
• Turn frequently – Rotate the sausages every 2-3 minutes for even cooking.
• Move to cooler area – Once browned, move sausages to indirect heat to finish cooking.
• Check temperature – Use a meat thermometer to ensure sausages reach 160°F internally.
• Don’t pierce – Poking sausages causes juices to escape. Use tongs or a spatula for turning instead.

The sausages are ready when nicely charred on the outside and piping hot in the center.

Pair with Delicious Accompaniments

Barbecue sausages taste fantastic served up with all sorts of delectable sides:

• Buns – Stuffed in soft rolls or hoagie buns. Brush with butter or sauce.
• Onions and peppers – Caramelized or grilled onions and bell peppers.
• Potato salad – A scoop of chilled bacon or dill potato salad.
• Baked beans – Sweet, smoky or spicy baked beans.
• Sauerkraut – Tangy sauerkraut provides crunch.
• Condiments – Spicy mustard, ketchup, bbq sauce, mayo, etc.

With so many tasty topping options, you can create the perfect sausage sandwich suited to your tastes.

Handy Tips for Grilling Sausages

Here are some additional pointers for barbecuing sausages like a pro:

• Soak wooden skewers in water 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
• Chill sausages for 30 minutes before grilling for juicier interior.
• Brush sausages with oil or melted butter to keep moist and prevent sticking.
• Lower heat and move sausages to indirect zone if flare-ups occur.
• Make a foil packet or use a grill basket to contain small or oddly-shaped sausages.
• Add sausages to a smoked [turkey] for the last 30-60 minutes to absorb extra flavor.

With the proper preparation and techniques, you can achieve succulent, sizzling sausages off the grill that will be the star of your barbecue feast. Now get outside and start sizzling up some sausages!.

FAQs About How to BBQ Sausages

What are the best sausages for grilling?

The best sausages for the barbecue are fresh, natural casing sausages that are plump with a high meat content. Good choices include bratwurst, Italian sausage, kielbasa, chorizo, boudin, merguez, andouille, and bangers. Avoid highly processed sausages.

Can you grill sausages directly frozen?

It is not recommended to grill sausages directly from the freezer. Always thaw sausages in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Grilling frozen sausages can lead to uneven cooking.

How do you stop sausages from bursting?

To prevent sausages from bursting open on the grill, use moderate heat, pierce sausages prior to cooking, and turn them frequently. Do not overcrowd the grill. Brush sausages with oil to keep the casings from splitting.

What is the best way to turn sausages on the grill?

Use tongs or a long spatula to gently turn sausages, being careful not to poke them. Flat metal skewers can also make turning sausages easier. Only turn sausages every 2-3 minutes for optimal char.

Can you grill sausages covered or uncovered?

Sausages are best grilled over direct high heat on an uncovered grill. Covering the grill can cause excess steaming that makes the sausages mushy. Leave the lid off for maximum exposure to the flames or coals.

Conclusion

Grilling sausages makes for easy, tasty barbecue fare. With high-quality sausages, proper prep, direct heat, and frequent turning, you can achieve browned, juicy links full of flavor. Pair them with favorite buns or sides like baked beans or sauerkraut. With these tips for how to barbecue sausages, you’ll impress everyone at your next cookout. Fire up the grill and enjoy sizzling sausages all summer long!