BBQ Sausage Links Recipe: Smoky Grilled Perfection Every Time

Comprehensive BBQ Sausage Links Recipe: Smoky Grilled Perfection Every Time visual reference

As a pitmaster, I’ve perfected the art of grilling BBQ sausage links to smoky perfection. 🔥 The key is achieving that ideal balance between charred exterior and juicy interior. I’ve spent years mastering this technique, and I’m excited to share it with you.

These BBQ sausage links are perfect for your next backyard cookout. Simply grill them at medium-high heat (375°F) for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or crusty bread.

👨‍🍳
Difficulty
Medium

🥩
Diet
Meat

⏱️
Total Time
30 min

🔥
Calories
Med Cal

Ingredients for Bbq Sausage Links

Simple ingredients for a perfect backyard BBQ. Get ready for smoky grilled perfection.



Ingredient Amount Notes
Smoked Sausage Links 🌭️ 1 lb High-quality sausage, any variety
Olive Oil 🫒 2 tbsp For brushing grill grates
BBQ Sauce 🍯 ½ cup Sweet or spicy variety
Onions 🧅 1 whole Sliced, for serving
Bell Peppers 🥒 2 whole Any color, sliced
Garlic Cloves 🧄 3 cloves Minced, for flavor
Salt 🧂 1 tsp Kosher or sea salt
Black Pepper 🌶️ ½ tsp Freshly ground preferred
Crusty Bread 🍞 1 loaf For serving
Grilled Vegetables 🥔 2 cups Optional, for serving
Mustard 🌶️ 1 tbsp Dijon or whole-grain
Beer 🍺 1 cup Optional, for basting

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For the best sausage, I head to Whole Foods or my local butcher. They usually have great options. If you’re feeling fancy, try a spicy Italian sausage or a smoky Andouille. The key is finding something with good flavor—you can’t go wrong with classic pork sausage either.

No grill? No problem. You can cook these on a grill pan or even in a skillet on the stovetop. If you’re using a stovetop, just brown them on all sides and finish in the oven at 375°F until they reach 160°F internally. The BBQ sauce is where you can get creative—try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to give it that extra oomph.

These sausages keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat them in a skillet with a bit of beer or broth to keep them moist. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Serve with your favorite sides, like grilled veggies or crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please.

Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Sausage Links

Let’s get grilling! Here’s how to make perfect BBQ sausage links every time.

🔥 Step 1: Prep Your Grill and Sausages

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, brush the grates with the 2 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking. I like to use a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs to do this quickly. Remove the 1 lb Smoked Sausage Links from their packaging and pat them dry with paper towels if they’re moist.

Now, let’s get the sausages ready for grilling. If they’re linked together, you can leave them connected or separate them depending on your preference. I prefer to keep them linked for easier handling on the grill.

🍳 Step 2: Grill the Sausages to Perfection

Place the sausage links on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until they’re nicely browned and heated through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. If you’re using a thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the sausage to check.

While the sausages are grilling, you can start preparing your accompaniments. Slice the 1 whole Onions and 2 whole Bell Peppers into rings or strips. Brush them lightly with olive oil and season with 1 tsp Salt and 0.5 tsp Black Pepper.

🔥 Step 3: Finish with BBQ Sauce and Serve

During the last minute of grilling, brush the sausages with 0.5 cup BBQ Sauce. You can use more or less depending on how saucy you like them. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can baste them with 1 cup Beer before adding the BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Once the sausages are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a minute or two. Serve with the grilled onions and bell peppers, crusty bread slices from the 1 loaf Crusty Bread, and a side of 2 cups Grilled Vegetables if you like. Don’t forget to offer 1 tbsp Mustard on the side for those who prefer a bit of tanginess.

Enjoy your perfectly grilled BBQ sausage links with all the fixings!

Storing and Reheating This Dish

Refrigerator Storage Tips

After your BBQ sausage links have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer Storage for Longer Life

For longer storage, you can freeze your BBQ sausage links. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating on the Stovetop

To reheat your BBQ sausage links on the stovetop, place them in a skillet with a bit of liquid—beer, broth, or water—to keep them moist. Heat over medium-low heat, turning occasionally, until they’re heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F. This method helps maintain their juicy texture. 🔥

Microwave Reheating

For a quick reheat, you can use the microwave. Place the sausages on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until they’re hot throughout. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them dry.

Grill Reheating for that Fresh-Grilled Taste

If you want to reheat your BBQ sausage links on the grill, simply place them on a preheated grill over medium heat and turn occasionally until they’re heated through. This method gives them a nice char and fresh-grilled flavor. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. 🌟

Serving After Reheating

Once reheated, serve your BBQ sausage links with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. You can also add a dollop of mustard or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious BBQ sausage links!

Nutrition Facts

4 servings per recipe

Amount per serving

Calories

350

% Daily Value*

Total Fat 15g

19%

Saturated Fat 4g

20%

Cholesterol 65mg

22%

Sodium 580mg

25%

Total Carbohydrate 32g

12%

Dietary Fiber 4g

14%

Total Sugars 6g

Protein 25g

50%


* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

★★★★★5.0(5 reviews)
Chef Melanie

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