When getting andouille sausages, you find that they are typically pre-cooked. Yet, it is possible to buy raw andouille sausages and cook them yourself.
Andouille sausages are usually smoked at packing factories. Other sausage types cooked this way include kielbasa and hot dogs.
Today, I will answer, “Is andouille sausage cooked?” Let’s read on right now!
Is Andouille Sausage Cooked?
Andouille sausages available in grocery stores or supermarkets are typically pre-cooked. But it is best to check their packaging before consuming.
As Andouille sausages are typically pre-cooked in most cases, it is okay to heat them before serving. Also, it is possible to eat them cold.
But you should check out the packaging to tell if your sausages are pre-cooked or how to cook them.
In some cases, though very rare, your andouille sausages are raw. You can find raw andouille sausages at butcher shops or deli counters at the grocery store.
Alternatively, you can also make your own raw andouille sausage at home.
Is It Possible To Get Raw Andouille Sausages?
It is possible to buy raw andouille sausages, although they are not as popular in the market as their pre-cooked counterparts.
In most cases, you can find these sausages at meat markets, butcher shops, or even farmer’s markets.
How To Tell If Your Andouille Sausages Are Cooked?
Use the tips below to determine if your andouille sausage is safe to consume.
Pre-Cooked Sausages
When heating your pre-cooked andouille sausages, you can use a good meat thermometer to determine if they are done.
You can also conduct the pressure test to achieve the same result.
When you use your thermometer to test sausages, you must ensure their internal temperature is at least 160°F before serving them.
Moreover, one of the common signs of cooked andouille sausages is that they are firm when you touch them. Therefore, they shouldn’t be shriveled.
We recommend not cutting your andouille sausages to avoid losing juices that can keep the sausage moist.
Raw Sausages
For raw andouille sausages, you can also apply the same rule to check them.
As they are entirely raw, your check process can go on longer than when you check pre-cooked ones.
How to Cook Andouille Sausage on the Stove?
Whether you use raw or pre-cooked sausages, the cooking process will still be the same. However, the cooking time will usually be slightly different.
Raw Sausages
We recommend simmering your raw andouille sausages on a stove.
You need to start by adding a little cooking oil (any oil will work well) into your skillet before putting your sausages in it and cooking on medium to high heat.
During the cooking process, you must flip your sausages regularly until you reach the brown color.
After that, you just pour some water (half a cup) into your skillet. Finally, you should cover your skillet and leave it for about twelve minutes.
Last but not least, you need the help of a good meat thermometer to check the temperature of your sausages. Make sure it reaches at least 160°F before serving.
Pre-Cooked Sausages
Our recommended solution for preparing pre-cooked sausages is to cook them on a stove to pan-fry them.
If you want to get the best result, you cut your pre-cooked sausage in half before placing the slices on your non-stick skillet and cooking on medium heat.
You should cook your sausages for about eight minutes (or more if necessary). Don’t forget to flip them consistently to make sure they cook evenly.
How to Prepare Your Andouille Sausages in An Oven
Cook your andouille sausages using an is one of the simplest and fastest ways to get delicious food.
First, you need to preheat your oven to about 350°F. After that, put your sausages on a sheet pan.
You should line your sheet pan with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
You can almost apply the same technique to both raw and pre-cooked sausages.
But we recommend boiling your raw sausages for about fifteen minutes before placing them in your oven.
Finally, you need to use your meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your sausages.
They should reach at least 160°F before being served.
How to Boil Your Andouille Sausages?
You can also cook your raw sausages by simmering them in boiling water. Make sure they are submerged in 2 to 3 inches of boiling water.
Then, let your raw sausages simmer for about 12 minutes before using your meat thermometer to check if they are ready to eat.
You need to ensure the internal temperature of your sausages is at least 160°F before serving.
For pre-cooked andouilles, you can apply the same process. However, your water cooking time may be reduced by half, which is about 6 minutes.
How to Grill Your Andouille Sausage?
Grilling your andouille sausages is also reasonable. It is an easy and quick way of cooking those Louisiana favorites.
For your pre-cooked sausages, all you need to do is put your sausages over medium heat and frequently flip them for about 10 minutes.
You can cook your raw sausages this way. The only difference is cooking time.
Specifically, you may need to cook them for 15 minutes over medium or high heat and turn your meat frequently as you go.
Last but not least, you will need to use your meat thermometer to check your meat and ensure it hits 160°F before enjoying it.
In the Nutshell
Andouille sausages are sure to be a delicious and simple addition to your family’s meals, no matter how you prepare them.
How you prepare your andouille will depend on your preferences. In most cases, pre-cooked sausages are safe to serve straight from their package.
However, many people like to heat them to benefit from a warm meal.
Thank you for reading!
