What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned grilling enthusiast or a novice looking to impress your guests, choosing the right sausage links is paramount to creating an unforgettable grilling experience.
- To ensure the sausage links are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Scramble eggs with grilled sausage links and wrap them in a tortilla with cheese and salsa for a satisfying breakfast.
Grilling season is upon us, and what could be better than savoring the tantalizing aroma and taste of perfectly grilled sausage links? Whether you’re a seasoned grilling enthusiast or a novice looking to impress your guests, choosing the right sausage links is paramount to creating an unforgettable grilling experience.
How to Choose the Best Sausage Links for Grilling
Navigating the vast array of sausage links can be daunting, but with a few key tips, you can make an informed decision that will elevate your grilling game:
- Consider the meat: Sausage links are typically made from pork, beef, or a blend of meats. Pork sausages are known for their juicy and flavorful texture, while beef sausages offer a leaner and more robust flavor.
- Choose the right casing: Natural casings (made from animal intestines) allow the sausage to breathe and develop a crispy exterior, while synthetic casings provide a more uniform and tender bite.
- Select the desired flavor: The possibilities are endless when it comes to sausage flavors. From traditional Italian to spicy chorizo, there’s a sausage link to suit every taste preference.
Our Top Picks: The Best Sausage Links for Grilling
After extensive research and taste testing, we’ve compiled a list of our top picks for the best sausage links for grilling:
- Johnsonville Brats: These classic brats are made from premium pork and offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Jimmy Dean Italian Sausage Links: With their authentic Italian seasoning and juicy pork, these sausage links will add a touch of Mediterranean flair to your grilling.
- Aidells Chicken & Apple Sausage Links: A healthier alternative to traditional sausage links, these lean and flavorful links are made with all-natural chicken and apples.
- Eckrich Smoked Kielbasa Sausage Links: These smoky and savory links are perfect for those who love a bold and spicy flavor.
- Sweet Earth Plant-Based Sausage Links: For vegetarians and vegans, these plant-based sausage links offer a delicious and sustainable option.
How to Grill Sausage Links to Perfection
Grilling sausage links is an art form that requires the right technique to achieve the perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior:
- Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to prevent the sausage links from sticking.
- Oil the grill grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the sausage links from sticking.
- Grill the sausage links: Place the sausage links on the preheated grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the sausage links are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the sausage links rest: Once the sausage links are cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Sausage Links
Grilled sausage links are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- Sausage on a bun: Serve grilled sausage links on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as sauerkraut, onions, or relish.
- Sausage skewers: Create colorful and flavorful skewers by alternating grilled sausage links with vegetables, such as peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
- Sausage pizza: Top your favorite pizza crust with grilled sausage links, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite toppings.
- Sausage soup: Add grilled sausage links to soups and stews for a hearty and flavorful addition.
- Sausage breakfast burritos: Scramble eggs with grilled sausage links and wrap them in a tortilla with cheese and salsa for a satisfying breakfast.
Health Benefits of Sausage Links
While sausage links are not considered a health food, they do offer some nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Sausage links are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues.
- B vitamins: Sausage links are a good source of B vitamins, which are important for energy production and brain function.
- Selenium: Sausage links contain selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
Summary: Elevate Your Grilling with the Best Sausage Links
Choosing the right sausage links for grilling is the key to creating unforgettable gatherings and satisfying your taste buds. By following our recommendations and experimenting with different grilling techniques and recipes, you can elevate your grilling game to the next level. So, fire up your grill and savor the tantalizing flavor of perfectly grilled sausage links!
Questions You May Have
Q: What is the best way to store sausage links?
A: Sausage links should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: How do I know when sausage links are done grilling?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: Can I grill sausage links without casing?
A: Yes, you can grill sausage links without casing, but they will be more likely to break apart. To prevent this, you can wrap the sausage links in foil or use toothpicks to hold them together.
