How to Cook Italian Sausage

How to Cook Italian Sausage involves first placing the sausage links in a large skillet and adding water up to half their depth. The pan is brought to a simmer and covered to cook the sausages through by gentle steaming in the water for about 12 minutes. Once the water evaporates, the sausages are turned occasionally to brown evenly in the pan. This two-stage cooking method results in juicy sausage links with a nicely browned outer layer.

Additional directions describe baking the sausages on a foil-lined sheet in a preheated 350°F oven for 25-35 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. For grilling, sausages are cooked over medium heat (375°F) with the lid closed, turned occasionally for about 15 to 20 minutes until browned and fully cooked. These alternative methods give options for cooking sausages without stovetop simmering.

The simplicity of the main stovetop method combined with optional oven and grill techniques makes this a practical guide for cooking Italian sausage links to a safe internal temperature with a browned finish. Adjust the quantity as desired since this method scales easily.