How to Cook Raw Sausage in Microwave?

Cooking raw sausage in the microwave may seem unconventional, but it is a method that can save time while still delivering delicious results. With busy schedules and the demand for quick meal solutions, the microwave becomes a reliable kitchen ally. While many people may prefer grilling, frying, or baking sausages, understanding how to properly use the microwave for cooking this savory meat can open a new avenue for meal preparation. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process for cooking raw sausage in the microwave, discuss different types of sausages, storage tips, and delicious serving suggestions.

Understanding Sausages: Types and Varieties

What Are Sausages?

Sausages are typically made from ground meat, spices, and other flavoring ingredients, often encased in a skin made of natural or synthetic materials. They come in various types, and each has its unique flavor and texture. Common meat options for sausages include pork, beef, chicken, turkey, and lamb, while the spices can range from sweet to spicy.

Types of Sausages

Fresh Sausage: Made from raw meat, fresh sausage must be cooked before eating. Common varieties include breakfast sausages and Italian sausages.
Fully Cooked Sausage: These sausages, like hot dogs and some deli meats, can be eaten directly without additional cooking. They are typically smoked or undergone another type of processing.
Smoked Sausage: Frequently prepared with an infusion of smoke to enhance flavor. Examples include kielbasa and andouille sausage.
Dried or Cured Sausage: These sausages can be stored for an extended period without refrigeration. Salami and pepperoni fall into this category and can be enjoyed without cooking.
Seasoned Sausage: These include flavor enhancements and special spices, creating a niche kind of sausage that can elevate a dish.

Understanding which type of sausage you are working with is crucial when cooking raw sausage in the microwave, as cooking times and methods can vary.

Preparing the Sausage for Cooking

Before diving into the actual cooking process, proper preparation of the sausage is paramount. This stage is critical to achieving optimal cooking results.

Selecting the Right Sausage

Choose high-quality sausages for the best flavor and texture. Look for options that are fresh and preferably sourced from local butchers or trusted brands.

Thawing Frozen Sausage

If your sausages are frozen, you will need to thaw them before cooking. The microwave can expedite this process. Here’s how:

Place in a Microwave-Safe Dish: Arrange the sausages in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish. This allows even thawing.
Use the Defrost Setting: Set your microwave to the defrost setting, which usually operates at 30% power. Check the sausages at 1-minute intervals and turn them over periodically for even thawing.
Check for Softness: The sausages should be pliable but not starting to cook. Once adequately softened, you can proceed to cook.

Prepping the Sausages

Poke Holes: Using a fork, poke several holes in the sausage casing. This technique helps steam escape during cooking and prevents them from bursting.
Seasoning: While some sausages are pre-seasoned, feel free to sprinkle additional herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Add Liquid: To enhance moisture retention, you may add a couple of tablespoons of water or broth to the dish. This method creates steam, keeping the sausage juicy.

Cooking Raw Sausage in the Microwave

Now that we have prepared our sausages, let’s dive into the actual cooking process.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Arrange the Sausages: Place the prepared sausages in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish, ensuring they are not touching each other.
Cover the Dish: Use a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to cover the dish. This helps trap steam and cook the sausages evenly.
Select Cooking Time: The general guideline for cooking raw sausage in the microwave is about 6-8 minutes per 1 pound of sausage. Cooking times may vary based on the wattage of your microwave.
Start Cooking: Microwave the sausages on high for the selected time. After every two minutes, check to see how they are progressing.
Rotate the Sausages: Halfway through, pause the microwave and rotate the sausages for even cooking.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C). This is crucial for food safety.
Let Them Rest: Once done, let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving. This ensures juices are retained, providing a better eating experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While cooking raw sausage in the microwave is generally straightforward, some common issues may arise. Here’s how to tackle them:

Uneven Cooking

If the sausages are not cooking evenly, it could be due to:

Microwave Placement: Ensure they’re arranged in a single layer without touching.
Power Settings: If your microwave runs hot, consider lowering the power setting for more consistent cooking.

Soggy Sausages

If the sausages come out soggy:

Covering: Ensure the covering is not too tight, as this can trap too much moisture. Vent it slightly.
Cooking Time: Try increasing the cooking time without covering for a brief period at the end, allowing excess moisture to evaporate.

Cooking Shrinkage

All sausages will shrink somewhat during cooking, especially if they contain preservatives. To minimize shrinkage:

Avoid Poking Holes Too Much: While it’s essential to poke holes, excessive piercing can lead to moisture loss.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Cooking raw sausage in the microwave opens a world of possibilities when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ideas for incorporating your cooked sausages into meals:

Sausage Breakfast Burrito

Fill a tortilla with scrambled eggs, cheese, diced bell peppers, and sliced cooked sausages for a hearty breakfast burrito.

Italian Sausage Pasta

Sauté onions and garlic, then mix in some tomatoes and cooked sausage to create a delicious pasta dish. Serve over your favorite pasta topped with parmesan cheese.

Sausage and Vegetable Stir-Fry

Cook some fresh or frozen vegetables and then toss in your cooked sausages for a quick stir-fry. Serve with rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.

Sausage Pizza

Slice your cooked sausages and add them to a pizza before baking. The microwaved sausages will enhance the dish and add hearty flavor.

Sausage Salad

Use sliced sausages over a fresh garden salad, complete with a zesty vinaigrette for a filling yet light meal.

Sausage Skewers

Thread cooked sausages onto skewers along with vegetables to create your own kabobs, perfect for grilling or serving at parties.

Storing Cooked Sausage

Understanding how to store your cooked sausage properly can delay food spoilage and pave the way for future culinary endeavors.

Refrigerating Cooked Sausage

Cool Down: Allow the sausages to cool completely before placing them in the refrigerator.
Use Airtight Containers: Store in airtight containers or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain quality.
Storage Duration: Cooked sausages can generally be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Cooked Sausage

Freezing Technique: If you want to keep leftovers longer, cooked sausages can be frozen. Make sure they are wrapped tightly or placed in freezer-safe bags to prevent freezer burn.
Usage Duration: Consume them within 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Learning how to cook raw sausage in microwave can be a game-changer for busy individuals and families, enabling quick meal preparation without sacrificing flavor. This method is not only fast but also requires minimal cleanup. By understanding the type of sausage you are working with and following the right steps, you can produce delicious and juicy sausages in no time. Plus, the endless serving options allow for creativity in your meals, ensuring variety and satisfaction. So the next time you find yourself short on time, remember that you can simply reach for your microwave and whip up some mouth-watering sausages in a matter of minutes!