Can You Microwave Smoked Sausage? A Quick Guide to Cooking Sausages

Smoked sausages are a delicious staple that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Their smoky, savory flavor makes them a favorite for everything from appetizers to main entrees. While grilling or pan frying may be the traditional cooking methods, the convenience of the microwave can’t be beaten. So can you microwave smoked sausage to quickly and easily cook up this tasty meat?

Is It Safe to Microwave Smoked Sausage?

Yes you can safely microwave smoked sausages as long as you follow proper food safety guidelines. The USDA and other health organizations approve the microwave as an effective cooking method for sausages.

It is important to cook the smoked sausage thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This kills any potential bacteria present in the raw meat. As long as the sausage is cooked until piping hot with no pink inside, microwaving poses no safety risks.

How to Cook Smoked Sausage in the Microwave

Microwaving smoked sausage is a very straightforward process:

• Take sausages out of packaging and place in a microwave-safe dish. Do not microwave in plastic packaging.

• Arrange the sausages so they are not touching each other to promote even cooking.

• Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes, turning the sausages halfway through Cooking time depends on thickness.

• Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to confirm they reach 165°F.

• Let sausages stand 2 minutes before serving to allow heat to evenly distribute.

Microwave Smoked SausageCooking Tips

• Prick sausages with a fork before cooking to prevent bursting.

• Partially cover the dish with microwave-safe lid or paper towel to prevent splatter.

• Add 1-2 minutes if cooking links vs. patties which take less time.

• Rearrange and rotate sausages during cooking for consistent doneness.

• Double check for doneness and continue microwaving if needed.

• Let rest for 2 minutes before eating. Sausages will continue cooking from residual heat.

How Long to Microwave Smoked Sausage

Most smoked sausage takes 4-6 minutes to fully cook in the microwave. Thicker, larger sausages may take up to 8 minutes. The wattage of your microwave impacts cook times as well. Higher wattage equals faster cooking.

As a general guideline for microwave smoked sausage:

• Smoked sausage links: 4-5 minutes
• Smoked sausage patties: 3-4 minutes
• Thick smoked bratwurst: 6-8 minutes

Always check sausages have reached safe internal temperatures before removing from microwave.

Can You Microwave Pre-Cooked Smoked Sausage?

Pre-cooked smoked sausages are fully cooked when purchased but will still benefit from a quick reheat in the microwave before serving. This will make them hot, plump and juicy again.

To reheat fully-cooked smoked sausage:

• Place in microwave-safe dish and cover loosely.

• Microwave for 1-2 minutes on high until heated through.

• Let stand 1 minute then serve while hot.

Avoid overheating pre-cooked sausage to prevent drying out.

What is the Best Way to Cook Smoked Sausage Besides the Microwave?

While microwaving is quick and convenient, you can also cook smoked sausage in these alternate ways:

• Pan fry: Fry on medium heat for 10-12 minutes turning frequently until browned.

• Grill: Grill for 12-15 minutes over medium heat, flipping occasionally.

• Oven bake: Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

• Air fry: Air fry at 380°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking basket occasionally.

• Instant Pot: Pressure cook for 5 minutes then natural release for 10 minutes.

Any cooking method that heats smoked sausage to 165°F internally can be safely used.

Best Practices for Safely Microwaving Smoked Sausage

To safely enjoy microwave smoked sausage:

• Choose fresh sausages within their use-by date and cooked sausages before expiration.

• Always use a microwave-safe dish. Do not microwave in packaging.

• Cook in short intervals to control cooking and prevent overheating.

• Check internal temperatures with a thermometer before serving.

• Let sausages rest 2 minutes before eating as they will continue cooking.

• Refrigerate or freeze any leftovers within 2 hours and reheat fully before re-consuming.

Following these simple practices will keep you and your family safe while taking advantage of the convenience of microwave cooking.

Delicious Microwave Smoked Sausage Recipes

Now that you know you can quickly and easily microwave smoked sausage, it’s time to put this knowledge into action! Try out these fast and flavorful recipes:

• Smoked Sausage Breakfast Sandwiches

• Cheesy Smoked Sausage Quesadillas

• Smoked Sausage & Pepper Sheet Pan Dinner

• Loaded Smoked Sausage Nachos

• Smoked Sausage Jambalaya

With the shortcut of microwaving, these tasty sausage dishes can be prepped and enjoyed any night of the week.

Microwaving is a fast, safe and effective method for cooking smoked sausage. By following recommended cook times, checking internal temperatures and allowing sausage to rest before serving, you can quickly prepare smoked sausage without compromising quality or safety. In just minutes, you can enjoy the classic taste of smoked sausage easily reheated or cooked in delicious microwave recipes.