What To Know
- The cooking time for sausage in the microwave will vary depending on the type and size of the sausage.
- Resting the sausage allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sausage.
- Yes, but thaw the sausage in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave using the defrost setting.
Microwaving sausage is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious breakfast staple. Whether you’re in a rush or just looking for an easy way to cook, this guide will provide you with all the steps you need to know.
Benefits of Microwaving Sausage
Microwaving sausage offers several benefits over traditional cooking methods:
- Speed: Microwaving is the fastest way to cook sausage, taking just a few minutes.
- Convenience: No need to heat up a pan or grill, making it ideal for busy mornings.
- Even cooking: Microwaves distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your sausage cooks thoroughly.
- Less cleanup: Microwaving requires minimal cleanup compared to other cooking methods.
Choosing the Right Sausage
When selecting sausage for microwaving, consider the following:
- Type: Breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, and bratwurst are all suitable for microwaving.
- Freshness: Fresh sausage is preferred, but frozen sausage can be used if thawed properly.
- Size: Smaller sausages cook faster than larger ones.
Preparing the Sausage
Before microwaving, it’s essential to prepare the sausage properly:
- Remove casing: If the sausage has a casing, remove it before cooking.
- Pierce the sausage: Use a fork or knife to pierce the sausage in several places. This allows steam to escape and prevents the sausage from bursting.
- Season: Season the sausage with your desired spices and herbs.
Microwaving the Sausage
Follow these steps to microwave your sausage:
- Place on a microwave-safe plate: Arrange the sausage on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.
- Cover: Cover the plate loosely with another paper towel or plastic wrap.
- Microwave: Cook on high for 30-second intervals, stirring or flipping the sausage between each interval.
- Check for doneness: Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the thickest sausage. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
- Rest: Let the sausage rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Times for Different Sausages
The cooking time for sausage in the microwave will vary depending on the type and size of the sausage:
- Breakfast sausage: 2-3 minutes per link
- Italian sausage: 3-4 minutes per link
- Bratwurst: 4-5 minutes per link
Tips for Microwaving Sausage
- Use a microwave-safe plate: Avoid using metal or non-microwave-safe containers.
- Cover the sausage: Covering the sausage helps keep it moist and prevents splattering.
- Stir or flip the sausage: Stirring or flipping the sausage ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooking can make the sausage dry and tough.
- Let it rest: Resting the sausage allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sausage.
Seasoning Ideas for Microwaved Sausage
Experiment with different seasonings to enhance the flavor of your microwaved sausage:
- Classic: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- Spicy: Cayenne pepper, chili powder, and paprika
- Herby: Thyme, rosemary, and oregano
- Asian: Ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil
- Sweet: Brown sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon
Alternative Cooking Methods for Sausage
While microwaving is a convenient method, you may also want to consider other cooking methods:
- Pan-frying: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the sausage for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Grilling: Grill the sausage over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Oven-baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the sausage for 15-20 minutes.
FAQ
- Can I microwave frozen sausage?
Yes, but thaw the sausage in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave using the defrost setting.
- How do I prevent the sausage from drying out?
Cover the sausage with a paper towel or plastic wrap to keep it moist.
- What can I serve with microwaved sausage?
Microwaved sausage pairs well with eggs, pancakes, waffles, or toast.
- Can I reheat microwaved sausage?
Yes, reheat the sausage in the microwave on low power for 30-second intervals until heated through.
- How do I store leftover microwaved sausage?
Store leftover sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
