Learn How Long to Cook Sausage Links (Grill, Pan, Oven & More)

Sausage links are a classic favorite for breakfast, BBQs, and everything in between.

But cooking them just right?

That’s where most people get stuck.

If you’ve ever sliced into a sausage that’s still pink in the middle or bit into one that’s dried out, you know how important timing is.

In this guide, you’ll learn how long to cook sausage links using different methods: from stovetop to grill.

We’ll also cover how to check for doneness and keep your sausages juicy and safe to eat.

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How Long to Cook Sausage Links on the Stovetop

If you’re pan-frying sausage links, cook them over medium heat.

Start by adding a bit of oil or water to the pan to keep them from sticking.

Cook for about 12–16 minutes, turning often.

Quick Tip: Browning the outside is great, but always check the inside.

A meat thermometer should read 160°F (71°C) for pork and beef sausages, and 165°F (74°C) for poultry-based ones.

How Long to Grill Sausage Links

Grilling gives sausage links that smoky, crisp bite everyone loves. 

Start with medium heat and place the links on the grill, turning them every few minutes.

• Total cook time: About 12–15 minutes

• Internal temp goal: 160°F for pork or beef

For even cooking, avoid high flames; you want a steady sizzle, not a flare-up.

If you're unsure about grill temps, this Flat Top Grill Cooking Temperature Chart can help you stay in the safe (and tasty) zone.

🔥 Cleanup Reminder: After grilling, let your grill cool slightly and use a safe tool like the Easy Function Wood Grill Scraper to remove residue without risking bristles in your food.

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Cooking Sausage Links in the Oven

If you’d rather not babysit your sausages on the stove or grill, baking is an easy option.

• Oven temp: 375°F (190°C)

• Cook time: 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway

Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Sausages should come out evenly cooked with a slightly crisp edge.

How to Boil Sausage Links

Boiling is often used before grilling to ensure the inside is cooked through.

• Method: Place sausages in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

• Cook time: 10–12 minutes, then finish on the grill or pan for a crispy exterior.

Boiling alone won’t give you a brown crust; however, it’s great for prep if you’re feeding a crowd.

After boiling, try finishing them off on the grill using ideas from these Easy Gas Grill Recipes Anyone Can Try they pair well with sausage!

Can You Air Fry Sausage Links?

Yes! Air fryers are fast and mess-free.

• Temperature: 375°F (190°C)

• Time: 10–12 minutes, shake basket halfway through

Use a thermometer to double-check the internal temp hits at least 160°F.

How to Know When Sausages Are Done

No matter the method, the key to perfect sausage is temperature. 

Don’t rely only on color; even fully cooked sausages can have a pink hue due to smoking or spices.

Best practice: Use a food thermometer.

• Pork or beef links: 160°F (71°C)

• Chicken or turkey links: 165°F (74°C)

To make checking easier, stick a meat temp magnet on your fridge like the Easy Function Meat Temperature Guide.

That way, you never have to guess.

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Final Tips for Juicy Sausage Links

• Don’t poke the sausages; this lets all the juices escape.

• Let them rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking.

• Store leftovers in the fridge within two hours.

Sausage links are simple to cook once you know the right time and temp for each method.

Whether you pan-fry, grill, bake, or boil, just stick to the temperature guidelines and you’re set.

Want to make your BBQ routine smoother?

Click the image to check out our full range of grill tools and guides by Easy Function.

P.S. We regularly publish new recipes and grilling tips. Here’s the most recent one: Learn How Long to Cook Fajita Meat on Grill