How Long To Bbq Sausages on Gas Grill
1. Preparing the Sausages
Start with fresh or high-quality pre-cooked sausages. If you’re using raw sausages, they will take longer to cook than pre-cooked ones.
Preparation steps:
Prick once or twice lightly with a fork to release steam and prevent bursting.
Brush with oil to avoid sticking to the grill.
Preheat the grill to medium heat (350–400°F / 175–200°C) for 10 minutes before cooking.
| Sausage Type | Preparation Tip | Average Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Pork | Prick lightly, don’t overcook | 85–100 g each |
| Beef | Oil lightly, keep medium heat | 85–100 g each |
| Chicken | Use indirect heat, cook fully | 75–90 g each |
2. Setting Up the Grill
Create a two-zone setup on your gas grill:
One side with medium-high direct heat (400°F / 200°C) for searing.
The other side with medium-low indirect heat (325°F / 160°C) for finishing.
This method ensures the sausages develop a rich, golden crust without burning before the inside cooks through.
3. Cooking Time and Temperature
The total cooking time depends on whether the sausages are raw or pre-cooked. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy — sausages are done when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for pork or beef, and 165°F (74°C) for chicken or turkey.
| Sausage Type | Heat Method | Internal Temp | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw Pork | Sear then indirect | 160°F (71°C) | 15–20 min |
| Raw Beef | Sear then indirect | 160°F (71°C) | 15–18 min |
| Chicken/Turkey | Indirect only | 165°F (74°C) | 20–25 min |
| Pre-cooked (any) | Direct heat | 160°F (71°C) | 8–10 min |
Tip: Rotate the sausages every few minutes to prevent charring and ensure even browning. Keep the lid closed when using indirect heat for better consistency.
4. Step-by-Step Grilling Method
Sear the sausages on the hot zone for 2–3 minutes per side until grill marks form.
Move to the cooler zone and close the lid to finish cooking for another 10–15 minutes.
Check the temperature in the thickest part using a meat thermometer.
Rest for 3–5 minutes before serving — this allows the juices to settle and enhances flavor.
| Step | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Sear (direct heat) | 4–6 min total | Crisp the casing |
| Finish (indirect heat) | 10–15 min | Cook evenly inside |
| Resting | 3–5 min | Retain moisture |
5. Helpful Grilling Tips
Don’t pierce too much: Excess holes let juices escape and dry out the sausage.
Avoid high heat: It can split the casing and burn the outside.
Keep turning: Rotate every 2–3 minutes for uniform color.
Add flavor: Brush with barbecue sauce or glaze in the last 2 minutes.
Use a grill basket: Ideal for small or thin sausages to prevent them from falling through the grates.
6. Serving Suggestions
Grilled sausages are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
In a toasted bun with mustard, ketchup, or relish.
Sliced over grilled vegetables or salads.
Served with mashed potatoes or roasted peppers.
Added to pasta, pizza, or breakfast platters.
For a complete barbecue meal, pair your grilled sausages with sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or garlic bread.
7. Conclusion
BBQ sausages on a gas grill typically take 15–20 minutes for raw sausages and 8–10 minutes for pre-cooked ones. Using a two-zone setup helps you achieve crispy skin and juicy centers without flare-ups. With stable temperature control and efficient heat management from TopGrill Outdoor gas grills, every barbecue session becomes easier, safer, and more delicious—perfect for backyard gatherings or family cookouts.
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