The microwave oven has become an indispensable appliance in most households today. Its ability to quickly heat up or cook food makes it a go-to option when you’re pressed for time. But can you really cook raw sausages thoroughly and safely in the microwave?
The short answer is yes, you can cook sausages in the microwave! While microwaved sausages may not get as browned and crispy as pan-fried ones, they will be cooked through and perfectly safe to eat when done right.
Read on to learn:
- Benefits of cooking sausages in the microwave
- Step-by-step instructions on how to cook sausages in the microwave
- Tips for getting the best results
- How microwaved sausages compare to other cooking methods
- Safety precautions for cooking sausages in the microwave
Why Cook Sausages in the Microwave?
Cooking sausages in the microwave has several advantages:
- It’s super quick and convenient – Sausages cook fast in the microwave, cutting down on cooking time.
- Minimal mess and splatter – Unlike pan-frying, there’s no hot oil splattering. Microwaving contains the mess.
- More hands-off cooking – Just set the microwave and you’re free to do other tasks.
- Even heating – Microwaves penetrate food and heat it from the inside out.
Microwaving is an easy, fuss-free way to whip up tasty sausages in minutes. The only compromise is that you miss out on the nice browned exterior you get from frying.
How to Cook Sausages in the Microwave
Follow these simple steps for perfect microwave-cooked sausages:
1. Prepare the sausages
- Use good quality fresh sausages. Pre-cooked or smoked sausages may dry out.
- Prick each sausage several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape and prevents bursting.
- Arrange the sausages in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate or shallow dish. Don’t overcrowd.
2. Microwave
- Cook on high heat for 2-5 minutes based on the number of sausages.
- Turn the sausages over halfway through cooking. This ensures even cooking.
- Allow sausages to rest for 2 minutes before serving.
3. Check doneness
- Sausages are fully cooked when the center is no longer pink and the juices run clear.
- If uncertain, cut one open to visually check they are cooked through.
- For extra color, finish off under the broiler for 1-2 minutes.
| Number of Sausages | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| 2-3 sausages | 2-3 minutes |
| 4-6 sausages | 4-5 minutes |
| 8-10 sausages | 5-6 minutes |
Pro Tip: Add a teaspoon of water to the dish to keep the sausages moist while cooking in the microwave.
Microwave vs Other Cooking Methods
How do sausages cooked in the microwave compare to other cooking methods?
| Cooking Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave | Fast, convenient, less splatter | No browning, less flavor development |
| Pan-fry | Nice browned exterior, more flavor | Splattering oil, more time consuming |
| Grill | Great charred flavor, attractive marks | Takes longer, needs outdoor space |
| Oven bake | Browning, minimal effort | Longer cook time |
| Air fryer | Browns and crisps, oil-free | Smaller batch sizes |
While the microwave may pale in comparison to pan-frying or grilling, it’s the quickest and simplest way to cook sausages when you’re pressed for time.
Microwave Sausage Safety Tips
To safely cook sausages in the microwave:
- Use fresh, fully thawed sausages. Partially frozen sausages may not cook evenly.
- Cook sausages immediately after microwaving. Don’t let them sit around.
- Always check internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Sausages should reach 160°F.
- Heat thoroughly until juices run clear – no pink inside.
- Don’t microwave uncured sausages. The low heat can harbor bacteria.
- Let sit 2-3 minutes before eating. This allows heat to evenly distribute.
- Discard sausages if they look or smell bad. Don’t take chances.
Following basic food safety guidelines removes any risks with microwave-cooked sausages.
Cooking Sausages in the Microwave Is Convenient
The microwave oven makes quick work of cooking sausages. It’s speed and convenience can’t be beaten.
While microwaved sausages may lack the lovely browned exterior and robust flavor of grilled or pan-fried sausages, they are perfectly safe and edible.
With a few simple precautions like pricking, turning, and properly heating through, you can easily cook sausages in the microwave. It’s great for quick weeknight meals or breakfast on the go.
So go ahead and take advantage of this timesaving cooking hack. Just follow the guidelines above for delicious sausages sans the mess and fuss of other cooking methods.
Tips for the Best Microwave Sausages
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of cooking sausages in the microwave:
- Use the right sausages – Leaner sausages like turkey and chicken work better than high-fat pork sausages, which can spatter grease.
- Pierce thoroughly – Prick each sausage in a few spots to allow steam to escape. This prevents bursting open.
- Don’t overcook – Microwaves heat very efficiently. Avoid drying out sausages by not overcooking.
- Season before cooking – Flavor sausages with spices, herbs, etc before microwaving for the most flavor.
- Wrap in paper towel – For extra grease absorption, wrap sausages in paper towels before microwaving.
- Elevate on a rack – Placing sausages on a microwave-safe rack prevents sitting in expelled juices.
- Finish under the broiler – For added color and texture, broil microwaved sausages briefly to crispen the exterior.
- Microwave in batches – Cook sausages in smaller batches for more even heating if microwaving a large quantity.
- Let rest before eating – Allow sausages to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to let heat redistribute evenly.
Creative Ways to Use Microwaved Sausages
Once you’ve mastered the simple art of microwaving sausages, try using them creatively in all kinds of quick and delicious dishes:
Breakfast Sausage Patties
Make patties using ground sausage meat mixed with eggs and breadcrumbs. Microwave to perfection in minutes (also read: How can one cook sausage patties using a microwave?).
Sausage Omelet
Chop up cooked sausage into bite-size pieces. Add to an omelet along with cheese, veggies etc for a hearty breakfast.
Sausage Quesadillas
Stuff microwaved sausage slices into a quesadilla with melted cheese, peppers, onions etc. for a fast Tex-Mex lunch.
Sausage Pasta
Mix chopped up cooked sausage into pasta along with tomato sauce, olive oil and garlic for a 30-minute dinner.
Sausage Potato Skins
Make easy loaded potato skins by topping microwaved baked potatoes with sausage, cheese, bacon, green onion etc.
Sausage Bread Rolls
Flatten out sausage meat and wrap around bread roll dough before baking for handheld sausage roll snacks.
With a little creativity, microwaved sausages can be used to upgrade everything from pizzas and sandwiches to salads, soups and more!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook sausages in the microwave?
Cooking time depends on amount – about 2-5 minutes per 2-3 sausages. Follow recipe times and check for doneness.
Can you microwave raw sausage?
Yes, raw sausages can be cooked fully in the microwave but may lack browning. Ensure they are cooked through.
Is it safe to eat microwaved sausages?
Properly cooked, microwaved sausages are just as safe as any other cooking method. Follow safety tips to prevent undercooking.
Why do sausages burst in the microwave?
Sausages burst from steam buildup inside. Pricking sausages allows steam to escape and prevents bursting open.
Should you prick sausages before microwaving?
Yes, always prick fresh sausages in several spots with a fork before microwaving to allow steam to escape.
Conclusion
The microwave provides a quick and convenient way to cook sausages that’s perfect for hectic mornings or impromptu meals. While they may not be as picture-perfect as grilled links, microwaved sausages are perfectly safe, tasty and fast.
Follow the tips above for microwaving sausages like a pro. Then get creative with how you use them in all kinds of easy, delicious dishes. Dinnertime stress? Solved!
So go ahead – start microwaving those sausages tonight!
