For many busy cooks, the microwave is a lifesaver on hectic mornings or rushed weeknights. Its ability to quickly heat up foods in just minutes flat makes it ideal for fixing fast mini-meals when you’re strapped for time. One food that often ends up in the microwave? Sausages. However, while nuking sausages is convenient, how long should you actually microwave them to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat?
When preparing sausages in the microwave the cooking time can vary based on several factors. Read on for tips on determining the ideal microwaving times for different types and amounts of sausages.
Microwaving Time Depends on the Number of Sausages
The number of sausages you are cooking is one of the biggest determinants of microwave time. Here are some general microwave guidelines based on quantity:
- 2 sausages – Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes
- 4 sausages – Microwave on high for 4-5 minutes
- 6 sausages – Microwave on high for 6-8 minutes
These times are for sausages between 2-4 ounces each in size. Smaller or larger sausages may need slightly less or more time. The more sausages you cook, the longer the cook time since more mass requires more energy to heat through.
Microwave Time Varies By Sausage Type
Microwave times can also shift depending on the style of sausage you are preparing, Leaner sausages generally require less microwave time than fattier varieties Here are estimated microwave times for some popular sausage types
- Breakfast sausages – 1-2 minutes per sausage
- Bratwursts – 2-3 minutes per bratwurst
- Andouille sausages – 2-3 minutes per 3 ounces
- Italian sausages – 2-3 minutes per 3-4 ounces
- Kielbasa – 3-4 minutes per 4 ounce sausage
- Chorizo sausages – 2-3 minutes per 3 ounces
The more fat and collagen a sausage contains, the longer the microwave time needed to sufficiently heat it through.
Prick Sausages Before Microwaving
An important preparatory step is to prick or poke holes all over the sausages before microwaving them. This allows steam to escape rather than building up inside and potentially causing the sausages to burst.
Use a fork to poke holes across the entire surface of each sausage to vent them. This simple step makes microwave cooking of sausages much safer and more effective.
Always Check for Doneness
When microwaving sausages, don’t rely solely on cook times. You should always check that the sausages have reached a safe minimum internal temperature before removing them from the microwave.
Carefully take the sausages out of the microwave after the estimated cook time has elapsed. Then, use an instant-read meat thermometer to test the internal temperature of each sausage in at least two spots.
For safely cooked sausages, the internal temperature should register at least 160°F – 165°F throughout. If the sausages are not yet up to temperature, return them to the microwave for additional heating in 30 second intervals until fully cooked.
Monitoring temperature is a foolproof way to avoid eating undercooked sausages. Investing in a good digital meat thermometer is a must for microwave cooking.
Add a Quick Browning Step
One drawback of microwave cooking is that sausages end up looking pale and unappetizing.
For better visual appeal, you can quickly sear the microwaved sausages in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to add nice browning. Just be gentle when turning them since the skins will be more delicate after microwaving.
Microwaving Rules for Perfect Sausages Every Time
While quick, cooking sausages in the microwave does require some care. Follow these rules for the best results:
- Split up sausage links before microwaving
- Thoroughly prick sausages with a fork
- Microwave in a single layer on a microwave-safe dish
- Use lid or paper towel to cover while cooking
- Microwave on high in 1-2 minute intervals
- Check temperature using a meat thermometer
- Discard any accumulated juices after microwaving
- Optionally sear in a skillet to add color
When armed with the right techniques, the microwave can be your secret weapon for quick and easy sausage prep any day of the week!
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Choose the Right Chicken Sausage
Start by selecting high-quality chicken sausage for grilling. Look for sausages that are made with lean and tender chicken meat with your preferred seasonings. Whether you like them spicy, smoky, or with herbs, choose the flavor that tempts your taste buds.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Try adding different marinades or rubs to your grilled chicken sausage to make it taste better.
- For a healthy meal, serve them as the main course with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Grill some bell peppers and onions to go with your chicken sausage to make a tasty sausage and pepper sandwich.
- Add sauerkraut and mustard to your grilled chicken sausage for a traditional German treat that will look great at any party.
Grilling chicken sausage is a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful and healthy meal. By following these simple steps, you can achieve delicious results that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering chicken sausages!.
How to Microwave Sausage
FAQ
Can you cook sausages in a microwave?
How long to heat fully cooked sausage?
Can you cook pan sausage in the microwave?
How long to microwave raw Italian sausage?
Can You microwave breakfast sausages?
You can microwave breakfast sausages, and each sausage will need around two minutes to cook. So if you are cooking four sausages, they will need to be microwaved on high for about eight minutes. Make sure to check that the breakfast sausages are cooked fully before removing them from the microwave and eating.
How long do you cook sausage in a microwave?
Microwave on high heat for 2 to 3 minutes for two sausages, 4 to 5 minutes for four sausages or 6 to 8 minutes for six sausages. Check the sausages are cooked through after this time. The skins will peel from the sausages and be soft and chewy. It’s a good idea to remove the skins at this point if they have started to come away from the sausage.
Can You microwave Italian sausage?
You can microwave vegan sausages. Place them on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a paper towel, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, turn them over, and then heat for another 1-2 minutes. Can You Microwave Italian Sausages? You can microwave Italian sausage.
Can You microwave frozen sausage?
Yes, you can microwave frozen sausages. However, it will take a few minutes for it to be thawed and then cooked. When microwaving frozen sausages, you should set the microwave to heat for 30-second intervals with 1 minute of rest in between. If you let it cook for a long time instead of with intervals, it might still be frozen in the middle.