Whether your taste runs to hot or sweet, you don't need to wait for a trip to the ball park to enjoy a grilled sausage. Although the process is simple, there are a few details that can ensure your grilled sausages are cooked to perfection! Read on to learn how to grill sausage.

You can prepare all types of sausages on the grill. Although this recipe details the preparation of Italian sausages, you can use the same method successfully to prepare all types of uncooked sausages, including bratwurst and fresh Polish sausage.

Boiling the sausages first accomplishes two things. It reduces the fat in the sausage, which reduces flare-ups that could burn the sausages. It also ensures that the sausages will be thoroughly cooked, reducing the risk of food-borne illness.

How to Grill Sausage

1. Preheat the grill.
2. Place the sausages in a saucepan, and cover with water.
3. Bring the water to a boil.
4. Cover the pot, and reduce heat to medium-low.
5. Simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Remove sausages from water with tongs, and place on grill.
7. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until browned, turning frequently to avoid burning.

1. Although sausage is generally fairly flavorful as is, you can vary the liquid you boil it in to add another flavor dimension. Consider replacing some of the water with beer, apple juice, or wine.
2. Slow-cooked onions and peppers are a traditional accompaniment to Italian sausage.
3. Use the best quality rolls you can find to enhance the sausage. You don't want to put time and care into perfectly grilling the sausage, only to stuff it into a doughy hot dog roll.
4. Slice leftover grill sausage thinly and use it as a topping for pizza.

Now that you've mastered the basics, here are some creative and tasty variations!

• • Epicurious.com: Grilled Sausage Sandwiches with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère (January 2001)
  • Thibeault's Table: Penne with Grilled Italian Sausage (May 16, 2009)
  • Yumsugar: Grilled Gourmet Sausage on Olive bread (May 20, 2009)