How to Cook Italian Sausage (5 Ways to Cook Sausage)

Italian sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to sandwiches to pizza. However, cooking it perfectly can be a challenge. In this article, we will share our tips and techniques for cooking Italian sausage to perfection, so you can enjoy it in all its delicious glory.

Understanding Italian sausage is the first step to cooking it well. It is a type of pork sausage that is seasoned with fennel, garlic, and other spices. It comes in both sweet and spicy varieties, and can be found in links or ground. Knowing the type of sausage you have will help you determine the best cooking method and seasoning to use.

Preparing for cooking is also important. Italian sausage can be cooked on the stovetop, in the oven, on the grill, or even in a slow cooker. Before cooking, it is important to remove the casings if you are using links, and to let the sausage come to room temperature. Adding seasoning and marinades can also enhance the flavor of the sausage.

What is Italian Sausage?

Italian sausage is made from seasoned ground pork, and is often used in a variety of sausage recipes. The seasoning typically includes fennel seed and anise, which give Italian sausage its distinctive flavor. Fennel seed is a key ingredient in Italian sausage and is what gives it its unique taste. It has a slightly sweet and licorice-like flavor that complements the pork.

Hot Italian Sausage vs. Sweet Italian Sausage

Traditional Italian sausage comes in two main varieties: sweet and spicy. The sweet version is milder and has a more subtle flavor, while the spicy version is hotter with the spices and has a more intense flavor.

Sweet Italian sausage is a great choice for those who prefer milder flavors, while spicy Italian sausage is perfect for those who like a little extra kick of red pepper flakes in their food. Both types of Italian sausage can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to pizza to sandwiches.

Italian sausage can also be made with chicken or turkey. Chicken sausage and turkey sausage are a great alternative for those who don't eat pork, but still want to enjoy the flavors of Italian sausage.

How to Cook Italian Sausage

When it comes to cooking Italian sausage, there are several techniques you can use to achieve the desired outcome. Here are some of the most popular methods:

Grilling

To grill Italian sausage, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the sausages on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

Pan Fry Italian Sausage

To pan fry Italian sausage, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

How to Cook Italian Sausage on the Stove

Add the sausages to a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, until the sausages are cooked through. Alternatively, you can pierce the skin of the sausages with a fork and cook them in a skillet over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, flipping the sausages occasionally.

How To Make Italian Sausage in the Oven:

If you're looking for a hands-off cooking method oven baked Italian sausage is the way to go. Preheat oven to 400°F and place the sausages on a baking sheet in the center of the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until browned and cooked through.

Air Fryer Italian Sausage Links

If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to cook Italian sausage. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and place the sausages in the basket. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

What temp to cook Italian sausage?

No matter which method you choose, it's important to ensure that the internal temperature of the sausages reaches 160°F before serving. This will ensure that they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Enjoy your Italian sausages with roasted vegetables, sausage and peppers, or simply on their own!

What to serve with Baked Italian Sausage

When it comes to serving Italian sausage, there are many options to choose from. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve this delicious dish:

• Peppers and Onions: Sautéed bell peppers (red and yellow are my favorite!) and onions are a classic accompaniment to Italian sausage. They add a sweet and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy sausage.
• Marinara Sauce: Italian sausage is also delicious with marinara sauce. Serve it over pasta for a hearty and comforting meal.
• Cheese: Sausage is great with cheese. Try it with mozzarella, parmesan, or provolone for a delicious combination.
• Red Wine: A glass of red wine is the perfect complement to Italian sausage. Try a full-bodied red like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Low Carb: For a low-carb option, try serving with roasted vegetables or a salad.
• Black Pepper: Italian sausage is already seasoned with spices, but a sprinkle of black pepper can add an extra kick of flavor.
• Spaghetti: The sausage adds protein and flavor to the dish.
• Breakfast: Italian sausage is not just for dinner! Try it in a breakfast sandwich or omelet for a delicious start to your day.
• Tomato Sauce: Serve it over pasta or in a sandwich for a classic Italian meal.
• Comfort Food: Serve with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans for a cozy meal.
• Stuffed Peppers: A great filling for stuffed peppers. Serve them with a side salad for a healthy and satisfying meal.
• Meatballs: Ground sausage can be used to make delicious meatballs. Serve them with tomato sauce and spaghetti for a classic Italian meal.

Storage and Reheating

When it comes to storing Italian sausage, it is important to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from spoiling. You can store cooked sausage in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Raw sausage, on the other hand, can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When reheating Italian sausage, you can do so in the oven, on the stove, or in the microwave. It is important to make sure that the sausage is heated all the way through to reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.

If you are concerned about the calorie content of Italian sausage, you may want to opt for turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage. These options are often lower in calories and fat, while still providing the same great taste.

In summary, storing and reheating Italian sausage is a simple process that can be done with ease. By following these tips, you can ensure that your sausage stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook sausage?

The best way to cook Italian sausage is to grill it. Grilling sausage gives it a smoky flavor and crispy texture. You can also cook sausage in the oven, on the stove, or on a griddle.

Is it better to boil or grill Italian sausage?

Boiling is quick, easy and reliable for cooking sausages thoroughly. But grilling or pan frying provides more flavor development and better texture. So grilling or pan frying is preferable if you want that classic Italian sausage flavor and bite. But boiling works well if sausages will be further used in other recipes.

How long to cook sausage on stove

Cooking sausage on the stove typically takes 12-15 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage, turning occasionally, until it is browned on all sides and cooked through.

How to cook ground Italian sausage

To cook ground Italian sausage, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat before serving.

How to cook Italian sausage on a griddle

To cook Italian sausage on a griddle, heat the griddle over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until it is browned on all sides and cooked through.

How to cook rope sausage in the oven

To cook rope sausage in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the sausage on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked through.

How do you cook Italian sausage without burning it?

To cook Italian sausage without burning it, use a lower heat and cook it slowly. You can also add a little bit of water or chicken broth to the pan to help prevent burning. Turn the sausage frequently to ensure even cooking.

📖 Recipe

How to Cook Italian Sausage

Sarah Mock

Learn how to cook Italian sausage in the oven, on the grill, or in a skillet. This step-by-step guide will show you how to cook perfect sausage links every time!

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Nutritional facts are estimates and are provided as a courtesy to the reader. Please utilize your own brand nutritional values to double check against our estimates. Nutritional values are calculated via a third party. Changing ingredients, amounts or cooking technique will alter the estimated nutritional calculations.

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👩🏻‍🍳 Sarah Mock

CEO/Owner/Founder/Culinary Blogger

Sarah Mock is a classically trained Chef and graduate of Johnson & Wales University. A culinary blogger for 14 years Sarah helps the home cook prepare her recipes with professional results.