The sweet taste of summer is in the air, and what better way to savor it than with a juicy, grilled Johnsonville sausage? Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, this article will walk you through the steps to achieve perfectly cooked, mouth-watering Johnsonville sausage on the grill.
Understanding Johnsonville Sausage
Before we dive into the grilling process, it’s essential to understand the different types of Johnsonville sausage available. Johnsonville offers a wide range of sausage products, including classic pork sausage, chorizo, bratwurst, and Italian sausage, to name a few. Each type of sausage has its unique flavor profile and texture, so it’s crucial to choose the right one for your grilling needs.
Choosing the Right Johnsonville Sausage for Grilling
When selecting a Johnsonville sausage for grilling, consider the following factors:
- Flavor profile: If you prefer a classic, smoky flavor, opt for Johnsonville’s Original Bratwurst or Classic Pork Sausage. For a spicier option, choose the Chorizo or Hot Italian Sausage.
- Texture: If you like a coarser texture, go for the Bratwurst or Knockwurst. For a finer texture, choose the Classic Pork Sausage or Italian Sausage.
- Size: Johnsonville sausage comes in various sizes, from small breakfast links to larger dinner sausages. Choose the size that suits your grilling needs.
Preparing the Grill
Now that you’ve selected the perfect Johnsonville sausage, it’s time to prepare the grill. Follow these steps to ensure a safe and successful grilling experience:
Cleaning the Grill
- Remove any debris: Use a grill brush to remove any food residue, ash, or debris from the grill grates.
- Oil the grates: Use a paper towel dipped in oil to brush the grill grates. This will prevent the sausage from sticking to the grates.
Preheating the Grill
- Preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F).
- Use a thermometer: If you have a grill thermometer, use it to ensure the grill has reached the desired temperature.
Grilling the Johnsonville Sausage
Now it’s time to grill the Johnsonville sausage. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly cooked sausage:
Placing the Sausage on the Grill
- Place the sausage on the grill: Place the Johnsonville sausage on the grill, leaving about 1 inch of space between each sausage.
- Close the grill lid: Close the grill lid to trap the heat and help cook the sausage evenly.
Cooking the Sausage
- Cook for 5-7 minutes: Cook the sausage for 5-7 minutes on the first side, or until it develops a nice brown color.
- Flip the sausage: Flip the sausage over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
- Use a thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the sausage has reached a safe internal temperature.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your Johnsonville sausage grilling experience:
Adding Wood Chips or Chunks
- Add smoky flavor: Add wood chips or chunks to the grill to give the sausage a smoky flavor.
- Choose the right wood: Choose the right type of wood, such as hickory or apple, to complement the flavor of the sausage.
Grilling with Peppers and Onions
- Add some color: Add sliced peppers and onions to the grill to add some color and flavor to the sausage.
- Use a grill basket: Use a grill basket to cook the peppers and onions, making it easy to stir and flip them.
Conclusion
Grilling Johnsonville sausage is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a summer evening. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked, mouth-watering sausage that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the sweet taste of summer with Johnsonville sausage.
What is the best way to grill Johnsonville sausage?
The best way to grill Johnsonville sausage is to cook it over medium heat, turning frequently, until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. This will ensure that the sausage is cooked through and slightly charred on the outside. It’s also important to not press down on the sausage with your spatula while it’s grilling, as this can cause the juices to be pushed out and the sausage to become dry.
To add some extra flavor to your grilled Johnsonville sausage, you can brush it with a little bit of oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. You can also try grilling the sausage on a piece of aluminum foil or a grill mat to prevent it from sticking to the grates. Just be sure to poke some holes in the foil or mat to allow the heat to circulate and the sausage to cook evenly.
How long does it take to grill Johnsonville sausage?
The grilling time for Johnsonville sausage will depend on the type of sausage you’re using and the heat of your grill. As a general rule, you can expect to grill Johnsonville sausage for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. If you’re using a thermometer to check the temperature, be sure to insert it into the center of the sausage to get an accurate reading.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the sausage while it’s grilling, as the cooking time can vary depending on the heat of your grill and the thickness of the sausage. If you’re unsure whether the sausage is cooked through, you can always cut into it to check. Just be sure to let it rest for a minute or two before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I grill Johnsonville sausage in the oven?
Yes, you can grill Johnsonville sausage in the oven using the broiler. To do this, preheat your broiler to high heat and place the sausage on a broiler pan or a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Keep an eye on the sausage while it’s cooking, as the cooking time can vary depending on the heat of your broiler and the thickness of the sausage. You can also try cooking the sausage in the oven at a lower temperature, such as 375°F, for a longer period of time. Just be sure to check the sausage frequently to avoid overcooking.
What are some popular toppings for grilled Johnsonville sausage?
There are many popular toppings for grilled Johnsonville sausage, depending on your personal preferences. Some ideas include peppers and onions, sauerkraut, grilled mushrooms, and cheese. You can also try serving the sausage on a bun with your favorite condiments, such as ketchup, mustard, and relish.
Other popular toppings for grilled Johnsonville sausage include sliced tomatoes, jalapeños, and bacon. You can also try serving the sausage with a side of grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers. The key is to experiment with different toppings and find the combination that you enjoy the most.
Can I grill Johnsonville sausage ahead of time?
Yes, you can grill Johnsonville sausage ahead of time and reheat it later. To do this, cook the sausage as you normally would, then let it cool to room temperature. Once the sausage has cooled, you can refrigerate it or freeze it for later use.
To reheat the sausage, simply place it on the grill or in the oven and cook it until it’s heated through. You can also try reheating the sausage in a pan on the stovetop with a little bit of oil or broth. Just be sure to heat the sausage to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure food safety.
How do I store leftover grilled Johnsonville sausage?
To store leftover grilled Johnsonville sausage, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it or freeze it. If you’re refrigerating the sausage, be sure to store it in a covered container and use it within a few days. If you’re freezing the sausage, you can store it for several months.
When you’re ready to eat the leftover sausage, simply reheat it as desired. You can try reheating it on the grill, in the oven, or in a pan on the stovetop. Just be sure to heat the sausage to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure food safety.
Can I grill Johnsonville sausage on a gas grill or charcoal grill?
Yes, you can grill Johnsonville sausage on either a gas grill or a charcoal grill. The key is to cook the sausage over medium heat, turning frequently, until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. If you’re using a gas grill, be sure to preheat it to medium heat before adding the sausage.
If you’re using a charcoal grill, be sure to adjust the vents to control the heat. You can also try cooking the sausage on a piece of aluminum foil or a grill mat to prevent it from sticking to the grates. Just be sure to poke some holes in the foil or mat to allow the heat to circulate and the sausage to cook evenly.