Cooking sausage in the oven is one of the easiest and most foolproof ways to enjoy juicy, flavorful sausages without the mess of frying or grilling. Whether you love Italian sausage, bratwurst, chorizo, or chicken sausages, baking them in the oven ensures even cooking and a perfectly browned exterior. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you master this method and elevate your sausage game.
Why Cook Sausage in the Oven?
Oven cooking is convenient because it requires minimal attention, cooks sausages evenly, and keeps your stovetop clean. Plus, it’s easy to cook multiple sausages at once, making it perfect for family meals or meal prep.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) or 400°F (200°C) depending on how crispy you want your sausages. A temperature around 375°F cooks them gently, while 400°F gives a nice caramelized skin.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Tray
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This also helps the sausages brown beautifully without drying out.
Step 3: Arrange the Sausages
Place your sausages on the tray in a single layer, leaving some space between each one. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking. If your sausages come in a long rope, slice them into individual links about 4 inches long for even roasting.
Step 4: Bake the Sausages
Put the tray in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the sausages to brown both sides evenly. For thicker sausages, you might need to add a few more minutes. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for pork sausages or 165°F (74°C) for poultry sausages.
Step 5: Optional – Crisp Up the Skin
If you love crispy sausage skin, finish by broiling the sausages for 1-2 minutes on a low setting. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the sausages from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, making every bite juicy and tender.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Sausages
– Don’t pierce the sausage skin before cooking – this keeps the juices inside for a moist bite.
– Lightly brush sausages with olive oil before baking for extra browning and flavor.
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness instead of guessing.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked sausages are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:
– Serve in buns with your favorite condiments for a classic sausage sandwich.
– Slice and add to pasta, pizza, or casseroles for a flavor boost.
– Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
– Try them with breakfast dishes like hash or scrambled eggs for a hearty start.
Cooking sausage in the oven is a simple way to get juicy, flavorful results every time. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a perfect method for busy weeknights or weekend feasts. Enjoy experimenting with different types of sausages and sides to make it your own!
Ready to try it yourself? What type of sausage will you bake first?