How to Cook Ground Sausage in Microwave: Quick & Delicious Method
How to Cook Ground Sausage in Microwave?
To cook ground sausage in the microwave, start by defrosting frozen ground sausage using the microwave’s defrost setting or in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Once defrosted, transfer the sausage into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid to prevent splashing.
Cook the sausage on high power for 1 minute, then break it up and stir.
Microwave for an additional 2 minutes, stirring again.
Check the sausage’s temperature with a meat thermometer and continue microwaving in 2-minute intervals until it reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Drain any excess fat using a colander and season according to preference.
Ensure the sausage is covered and stirred during cooking for even heat distribution.
Key Points:
- Defrost frozen ground sausage using microwave’s defrost setting or in cold water, changing water every 30 minutes
- Transfer defrosted sausage into microwave-safe bowl and cover with lid
- Microwave on high power for 1 minute, break up and stir
- Microwave for an additional 2 minutes, stirring again
- Check sausage’s temperature with meat thermometer, continue microwaving in 2-minute intervals until 160 degrees Fahrenheit
- Drain excess fat using colander and season according to preference
Did You Know?
1. Ground sausage can be cooked in the microwave using a microwave-safe container, covered with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, to prevent the sausage from drying out.
2. Time-saving tip: Pre-cook ground sausage in the microwave before adding it to your dishes to reduce the cooking time required on the stovetop or oven.
3. Did you know that microwaving ground sausage at a lower power level, such as 50% power, helps to achieve a more even and thorough cooking result?
4. Ground sausage can release excess oil or fat during microwave cooking. To avoid a messy cleanup, place a paper towel beneath the sausage in the microwave-safe container to absorb the excess grease.
5. Here’s a unique trick: Adding a small amount of water to the container while cooking ground sausage in the microwave can help to keep the sausage moist and prevent it from becoming dry.
Defrosting Ground Sausage: Microwave Or Cold Water Method
Before cooking ground sausage in the microwave, it is essential to defrost it properly to ensure even cooking and prevent any potential bacterial growth. There are two main methods for defrosting ground sausage:
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Using the microwave’s defrost setting: Start by placing the frozen sausage in a microwave-safe container or bowl. Make sure the container has a lid to prevent any splashing. Set the microwave to the defrost mode and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the weight and type of meat being defrosted.
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Using the cold water method: Fill a large bowl with cold water and submerge the sealed package of ground sausage into it. Remember to change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold and prevent bacterial growth. This method might take longer, but it is equally effective.
Regardless of the method chosen, ensure that the ground sausage is fully defrosted before cooking. This allows for even cooking and reduces the risk of harmful bacteria surviving in partially defrosted meat.
- Note: Never defrost ground sausage at room temperature, as it can promote bacterial growth.
- Reminder: Always follow the specific defrosting instructions provided by the manufacturer.
“Proper defrosting is crucial for even cooking and food safety.”
Cooking Ground Sausage In The Microwave: Step-By-Step Instructions
To cook ground sausage in the microwave, follow these step-by-step instructions for a quick and convenient meal.
Step 1: Transfer the defrosted ground sausage to a medium-sized microwave-safe container or bowl. Make sure the container is suitable for microwave use and has a microwave-safe lid to prevent any splattering.
Step 2: Place the lid on the container to trap the heat, ensuring even cooking of the ground sausage. This will help retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.
Step 3: Microwave the ground sausage on high power for 1 minute. This initial burst of high heat will jumpstart the cooking process.
Step 4: After the first minute, remove the container from the microwave and use a large wooden spoon to break up and stir the ground sausage. This step ensures that the meat cooks evenly and prevents any clumps from forming.
Step 5: Place the container back into the microwave and cook for an additional 2 minutes on high power. Stir the ground sausage again to ensure even heating and to break up any remaining clumps.
Step 6: At this point, it is essential to check the temperature of the ground sausage using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. If the sausage is not fully cooked, microwave it for an additional 2 minutes and recheck the temperature.
Checking The Temperature: Using A Meat Thermometer For Perfectly Cooked Sausage
To ensure the ground sausage is cooked to perfection and safe to consume, it is crucial to check the temperature using a meat thermometer. This tool allows you to accurately measure the internal temperature of the sausage, ensuring it reaches the recommended safe temperature.
To check the temperature, insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the ground sausage, avoiding any bone or fat. Leave the thermometer in place for a few moments until the temperature stabilizes. For ground sausage, the safe internal temperature is 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the sausage has not reached the desired temperature, place it back into the microwave for an additional 2 minutes and recheck the temperature. Repeat this process until the sausage reaches the recommended 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is crucial to note that undercooked ground sausage poses a risk of foodborne illnesses, so it is essential to ensure it is thoroughly cooked before consumption. By using a meat thermometer, you can be confident that the sausage is safe to eat and enjoy.
Draining Excess Fat: Using A Colander For A Healthier Dish
After cooking ground sausage in the microwave, it is common to have excess fat or grease accumulated in the dish. To create a healthier dish and remove the excess fat, using a colander is recommended.
Once the sausage is cooked and reaches the desired temperature, carefully take it out of the microwave. Place the colander in the sink and transfer the cooked ground sausage from the container to the colander. Gently shake the colander to allow the excess fat to drain away.
By draining the excess fat, you are reducing the saturated fat content in the dish, providing a healthier option. This step is particularly important for individuals who are conscious of their fat intake or have specific dietary restrictions.
Tips For Successful Microwave Cooking: Handling, Bowl Size, Seasonings, And More
Cooking ground sausage in the microwave can be a quick and convenient method, but following these tips will ensure the best results:
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Handle with care: Use a towel or pot holder to handle the hot dish when removing it from the microwave, as it will be very hot.
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Optimal bowl size: Use a large bowl to decrease the cooking time. A larger bowl allows for more even heating and prevents overcrowding, ensuring efficient cooking of the ground sausage.
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Season to taste: Before microwaving the ground sausage, consider adding seasonings like garlic powder, salt, pepper, or any other desired flavors. This will enhance the taste of the meat and add a delightful aroma to your dish.
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No need for oil: Microwaving ground sausage does not require the addition of oil or any other cooking fats. The natural fat within the meat is sufficient for cooking and adds flavor to the dish.
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Lid for even cooking: Always cover the ground sausage with a lid during the cooking process. This traps the heat, allowing for even cooking and retaining moisture in the meat.
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Leaner meat for tenderness: To ensure tender meat, opt for leaner cuts of ground sausage. Higher-fat meat can become tough and chewy when cooked in the microwave.
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Versatility of instructions: The instructions provided can also be used for cooking ground beef patties or ground turkey in the microwave. However, ground turkey should be cooked to a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
Following these tips will help you achieve excellent results while cooking ground sausage in the microwave.
Reheating Leftover Ground Sausage: Moistening Techniques And Temperature Guidelines
If you have leftover cooked ground sausage, you can reheat it in the microwave. However, keep in mind that reheating cooked meat in the microwave can sometimes result in dryness.
To prevent the ground sausage from becoming dry during reheating, try moistening techniques. One effective method is to place a moistened paper towel over the meat while reheating. The moisture from the towel will help retain the moisture in the sausage, keeping it moist and juicy.
When reheating leftover cooked ground sausage, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature ensures all harmful bacteria are killed, making the sausage safe to eat.
Reheating can be done multiple times, but each time it goes through the reheating process, the sausage may become drier. To minimize dryness, it is recommended to reheat only the amount needed for each serving to maintain its quality and taste.
It’s worth mentioning that the instructions provided can also be applied to reheating ground beef patties and ground turkey in the microwave. However, ground turkey should be cooked to a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal safety.
In summary, reheating leftover ground sausage in the microwave is possible. By following the moistening techniques and temperature guidelines, you can enjoy a juicy and flavorful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you cook ground meat in the microwave?
To cook ground meat in the microwave, start by placing the meat in a large glass microwave-safe bowl and covering it with a microwave-safe cover. Microwave on high for one minute, then use a spoon to break up the meat and recover it. Cook for an additional 2 minutes and repeat this process until the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, drain the meat if necessary and season it to taste.
How long does it take to cook raw ground sausage?
Raw ground sausage typically takes approximately 10-12 minutes to cook in a large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. During this time, the sausage will become browned and crumbled, requiring the use of a spatula to break up the meat. Once cooked, you can easily transfer the sausage from the skillet using a slotted spoon, ensuring any rendered fat is discarded.
Can you cook raw mince in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook raw mince in the microwave, but it is crucial to take certain precautions. As microwaves can result in uneven cooking, it’s recommended to cover the mince, stir it at least once during cooking, and ensure that it reaches a safe internal temperature. This will help eliminate cold spots where harmful bacteria can persist, making it a convenient and quick method for cooking mince.
Is ground sausage already cooked?
Ground sausage is typically uncooked. It can be made from various meats such as beef, pork, lamb, or veal, as well as poultry like turkey or chicken. Unlike ready-to-eat sausages, ground sausage requires cooking before consumption. Whether in bulk form, patties, or links, it is essential to thoroughly cook ground sausage to ensure it is safe to eat and fully cooked to the desired level of doneness. So, when preparing ground sausage, it is important to remember that it is not already cooked when purchased.