Taste Of Italy On The Grill: How To Cook Johnsonville Italian Sausage To Perfect Tenderness

Grilling season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with the tantalizing flavors of Johnsonville Italian sausage? Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice looking to impress, this comprehensive guide will empower you to grill Johnsonville Italian sausage to perfection.

Choosing the Right Sausage

The key to a delicious grilled sausage is selecting the right type. Johnsonville offers a wide range of Italian sausage options, each with its unique blend of herbs and spices. Choose a sausage that aligns with your taste preferences and the desired level of spiciness.

Preparing the Sausage

Before grilling, it’s essential to prepare the sausage properly. Remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure even cooking and prevent the sausage from splitting during grilling.

Preheating the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature will prevent the sausage from burning on the outside while ensuring it cooks through the center.

Grilling the Sausage

Place the sausages on the preheated grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the USDA-recommended safe internal temperature for cooked pork.

Indirect Grilling

If you prefer, you can use the indirect grilling method for more tender and juicy sausages. Place the sausages on one side of the grill and heat on the opposite side. This will create a two-zone grilling area, allowing the sausages to cook through without burning.

Flavoring the Sausage

Once the sausages are cooked through, you can enhance their flavor with your favorite toppings. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or your preferred herbs and spices.

Marinating the Sausage

For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the sausages for several hours or overnight before grilling. Create a marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, and spices. Place the sausages in the marinade and refrigerate.

Serving the Sausage

Grilled Johnsonville Italian sausage is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it on its own with grilled vegetables or incorporate it into sandwiches, pizzas, or pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts:

Grilling Johnsonville Italian sausage is a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. By following these simple steps and experimenting with different flavors and techniques, you can master the art of grilling this beloved sausage to perfection.

What You Need to Know

1. Can I grill Johnsonville Italian sausage from frozen?
No, it’s not recommended to grill Johnsonville Italian sausage from frozen. Thawing it first will ensure even cooking and prevent the sausage from splitting.

2. How do I know when the sausage is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The sausage is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. What is the best way to prevent the sausage from burning?
Preheat your grill to medium heat and cook the sausage over indirect heat if possible. This will prevent the sausage from burning on the outside while ensuring it cooks through the center.

4. Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted to other types of sausage. However, the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the type of sausage used.

5. What are some suggested toppings for grilled Johnsonville Italian sausage?
Some suggested toppings include grilled onions, peppers, mushrooms, mozzarella cheese, or your favorite marinara sauce.