The Best Smoked Sausage Recipes (9 Side Dishes to Serve)

As an experienced chef with years of expertise in the culinary arts,

I've had the pleasure of experimenting with a multitude of delectable ingredients and a vast array of cooking techniques.

One particular dish that has held a special place in my heart and on my palate is the humble smoked sausage.

I honed my skills in smoking sausage over many years until I found two absolutely delicious ways to make homemade smoked sausage, and I’m happy to share them with you today.

Let’s get into it.

Quick Summary

• Raw sausages will be completely cooked during the smoking process; you can use Italian sausage, turkey smoked sausage, Polish kielbasa, or any other type that you might like.
• You can serve smoked sausage with side dishes like brown rice, green beans, red beans, frozen peas, bell peppers, sautéed onions, pasta, creamy sauce, and boiled potatoes.
• According to USDA's latest Sausages and Food Safety post, smoke the sausage at 225°F for approximately 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
• We recommend slicing your smoked sausages when serving them with side dishes.

Homemade Smoked Sausage Recipe

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Total Carbs: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 21g
• Fiber: 0g
• Net Carbs: 2g

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of raw sausage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon fresh garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F according to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to create a dry rub.
3. Place the raw sausage on a cutting board and prick them several times with a fork to allow the smoke to penetrate.
4. Drizzle the sausage with olive oil and rub it evenly with the prepared dry rub, coating all sides.
5. Transfer the links to the smoker rack, leaving space between each link for even smoking.
6. According to USDA's latest Sausages and Food Safety post, smoke the sausage at 225°F for approximately 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F [1]. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
7. Once the smoked sausages are fully cooked and have a smoky flavor, remove them from the smoker and let them rest for 5 minutes.
8. Slice the smoked sausage and serve them hot with your favorite side dishes.

Recipe Notes

• The raw sausages will be completely cooked during the smoking process. You can use Italian sausage, turkey smoked sausage, Polish kielbasa, or any other type that you might like.
• You can adjust the spice level of your smoked sausages by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the dry rub.
• The smoking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the links. Always ensure your smoked sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
• You can store any leftover smoked sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days [2]. They can be reheated in a skillet or grilled for a delicious smoky taste.
• Smoked sausage is also a great weeknight meal as it can be stored for up to 3 months as a freezer meal with easy reheating.
• This recipe can be easily scaled up or down to accommodate the desired number of smoked sausage servings.
• Experiment with different wood chips for smoking, such as hickory, apple, or mesquite, to add different flavors to your sausages.
• The robust and nuanced flavors of smoked sausage come alive when prepared with the right equipment, and that's where our comprehensive list of the best pellet smokers and grills comes in handy.

9 Things To Serve with Smoked Sausage

Here are some side dishes that are perfect to serve with smoked sausage:

• Brown cooked rice: Brown rice cooked in chicken broth is a healthy and hearty option. Smoked sausage and rice is a tasty dish that provides essential nutrients like fiber and protein.
• Green beans: Green beans are a nutritious and tasty side dish that pairs well with the smoky taste of the sausage. They add a pop of green color to your plate and texture to your meal.
• Red beans: Red beans are a traditional side dish that works well with the spicy flavors of Cajun or Andouille sausage.
• Frozen peas: Frozen peas are a quick and easy side dish that boosts your meal's nutrition. Peas are rich in vitamins and minerals and complement the smokiness of the sausage.
• Bell peppers: Bell peppers are a colorful and crunchy side dish that can be served raw or cooked. Their sweet and tangy flavor contrasts with the taste of the smoked sausage.
• Sautéed onions: Sautéed onions are a delicious and aromatic addition to any meal. They add depth and sweetness to the smokiness of the sausage.
• Pasta: Smoked sausage pasta is a classic meal that is easy to prepare and can be served with any type of pasta. The smokiness of the sausage is delicious, with all types of cheese and sauces in this pasta dish.
• Creamy sauce: A sauce made with cheese, sour cream, or heavy cream adds richness and a tangy taste that complements the taste of the smoked sausage. Try a creamy mozzarella pasta for an even more delicious flavor.
• Boiled potatoes: The potatoes provide a soft, creamy texture that contrasts with the taste of the smoked sausage. Butter and herbs add flavor to the dish.

"The flavors are what makes smoked sausage recipes a favorite in many households. That is why it's important to pair it with sides that can complement but not overpower the taste."

- Tuffy Stone, American Chef and Pitmaster

Related Articles:

• Beef Sausage vs Pork Sausage
• Smoked Shotgun Shells

Tasty One-Pot Smoked Sausage Recipe

This one-skillet meal is a good recipe for even the picky eaters at my dinner table. My family enjoyed this easy meal from the very first time I served it.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutrition

• Calories: 350
• Total Carbs: 10g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Net Carbs: 8g

Ingredients

• 1 pound sliced smoked sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1-2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook smoked sausage until browned - about 5 minutes. Remove the smoked sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add garlic, bell peppers, and onion in the same pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the same skillet and add the stock, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce to medium heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with parsley. Serve hot.

Recipe Notes

• The raw sausages will be completely cooked during the smoking process. You can use Italian sausage, turkey smoked sausage, Polish kielbasa, or any other type that you might like.
• You can adjust the spice level of your smoked sausages by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the dry rub.
• The smoking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the links. Always ensure your smoked sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
• You can store any leftover smoked sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days [2]. They can be reheated in a skillet or grilled for a delicious smoky taste.
• Smoked sausage is also a great weeknight meal as it can be stored for up to 3 months as a freezer meal with easy reheating.
• This recipe can be easily scaled up or down to accommodate the desired number of smoked sausage servings.
• Experiment with different wood chips for smoking, such as hickory, apple, or mesquite, to add different flavors to your sausages.

FAQs

References:

1. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/meat/sausages-and-food-safety
2. https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/What-are-storage-times-for-sausages