Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage is a flavorful, fully cooked sausage made from pork, turkey, and beef. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be quickly prepared and added to a variety of dishes. If you’re wondering how to cook Hillshire Farm smoked sausage to bring out its best taste and texture, this guide will walk you through simple methods and tasty recipes that anyone can master.
What Makes Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage Special?
Hillshire Farm smoked sausage is already fully cooked, so your goal is to heat it thoroughly while developing a nice browned exterior and juicy interior. The sausage has a smoky, savory flavor that pairs well with many ingredients like bell peppers, onions, broccoli, and rice. It’s also available in varieties like the CheddarWurst, which adds a cheesy twist to your meals.
Basic Cooking Methods for Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage
1. Pan Frying
– Cut the sausage into ½-inch slices, either diagonally or lengthwise.
– Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
– Add the sausage slices and cook for 6 to 9 minutes, turning frequently until browned on all sides.
– This method enhances the smoky flavor and gives the sausage a crispy edge.
2. Grilling
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
– Place the sausage slices or links on the grill.
– Grill for 12 to 14 minutes, turning frequently to avoid burning.
– Grilling imparts a smoky char that complements the sausage’s natural flavors.
3. Stove Top Simmering
– Add sausage to 2 to 3 inches of boiling water.
– Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until heated through.
– This method keeps the sausage moist and is perfect if you want to avoid extra browning.
Delicious Recipe: Easy Smoked Sausage Skillet
One of the easiest and most satisfying ways to cook Hillshire Farm smoked sausage is in a skillet with vegetables and rice. This one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights and requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
– 1 package Hillshire Farm smoked sausage, sliced diagonally into ¼-inch pieces
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, crushed
– 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
– 1 package frozen broccoli, thawed
– ½ cup chicken broth or water
– ½ cup tomato sauce
– 2 cups instant rice
– ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add crushed garlic and sauté briefly.
- Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in bell pepper, onion, broccoli, chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Simmer for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Mix the cooked rice into the skillet. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and serve hot.
Another Flavorful Option: Smoked Sausage with Apples and Peppers
For a sweet and savory twist, try cooking smoked sausage with apples and bell peppers.
Ingredients
– 1 package Hillshire Farm smoked sausage, sliced ½ inch thick
– 1 tablespoon butter or margarine
– 2 tart apples, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch wedges
– 1 Vidalia or sweet onion, sliced
– 2 green bell peppers, seeded and cut into ½-inch strips
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and cut into ½-inch strips
– ½ teaspoon coarsely cracked black pepper
– Long French sandwich rolls and prepared mustard for serving (optional)
Directions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for 3 minutes.
- Add sausage slices and cook 1-2 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove sausage from skillet.
- Melt butter in the skillet. Add apples, onion, and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until peppers are soft, about 10 minutes.
- Return sausage to the pan and heat through. Season with cracked black pepper.
- Serve in sandwich rolls with mustard if desired.
Tips for Cooking Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage Perfectly
– Since the sausage is fully cooked, focus on heating it thoroughly and browning it for extra flavor.
– Slice the sausage diagonally for a more attractive presentation and quicker cooking.
– Pair with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and broccoli to add nutrition and texture.
– Use the sausage in one-pan meals with rice or pasta for convenience.
– Experiment with different seasoning and sauces to match your taste preferences.
Hillshire Farm smoked sausage is a quick, flavorful ingredient that adapts well to many cooking styles. Whether pan-fried, grilled, or simmered, it’s easy to prepare and makes a delicious centerpiece for family meals. Try the skillet recipe or the apple and pepper sauté for a tasty dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Enjoy cooking and savor every bite!