How to Make House-Quality Sausages on Your Grill 

Nothing captures the essence of a summer BBQ like the sizzling sound of sausages on the grill. But not all sausages are created equal. House-made, preservative free sausages from your local Ontario meat shop deliver unmatched flavour and quality that elevate your grilling experience. 

In this guide, we’ll teach you how to grill sausages like a pro, what to pair them with, and why buying premium cuts from Wagyu beef to lamb shanks adds sophistication to your summer spread. If you’re looking to impress family and friends or simply enjoy gourmet food at home, this blog is your go-to grilling manual. 

Why Choose House-Made Sausages? 

House-made sausages are made fresh in small batches, often by skilled butchers who prioritize flavour, texture, and quality. 

Benefits of Buying Local, House-Made Sausages: 

• Made with premium cuts: Sausages crafted with high-quality meats such as Wagyu beef or heritage-breed pork have superior marbling, which leads to more tender, flavourful results. These meats are handled with care and often sourced from local farms, ensuring freshness and ethical sourcing. 
• No artificial preservatives or fillers: Mass-produced sausages often contain chemical additives and extenders that dilute the meat content. House-made varieties typically rely on traditional techniques and natural spices, making them cleaner and more health-conscious options. 
• Unique and custom flavour profiles: Local butchers often experiment with creative spice blends think maple fennel, apple sage, or chipotle cheddar. These varieties offer something new beyond the basic supermarket options, and some shops even allow you to customize your own blend. 
• Superior freshness and texture: Because house-made sausages are typically made daily or weekly in small quantities, they retain better moisture and consistency. The fresher the sausage, the juicier and more flavourful it will be when grilled. 

By choosing your local Ontario meat shop, you not only support small business but also ensure you’re getting hand-crafted sausages made with care and culinary expertise. 

Choosing the Right Sausage for Grilling 

Not all sausages behave the same on a grill. Some are meant for slow roasting, while others are perfect for a hot flame. Your choice will shape your grilling approach. 

Popular Sausage Types: 

• Pork-based Italian or bratwurst sausages: These are the quintessential BBQ sausages. Italian sausages are often seasoned with garlic, fennel, and herbs. Bratwursts are milder and pair well with mustard and sauerkraut. Both deliver a familiar flavour profile that suits most guests. 
• Spicy lamb sausages: These bring a bold Mediterranean flair to your BBQ. Seasoned with spices like cumin, paprika, coriander, and chili flakes, lamb sausages offer a richer and more robust bite than pork. They’re a top pick for adventurous eaters or spicy food lovers. 
• Chicken sausages: Leaner and lower in fat, chicken sausages are perfect for health-conscious grillers. When made with thoughtful seasoning like sun-dried tomato and basil or spinach and feta, they deliver big flavour with fewer calories. 
• Wagyu beef sausages: These are the showstoppers. With intense marbling and buttery texture, Wagyu sausages are rich, luxurious, and perfect for special occasions. They’re best served with minimal toppings to let the quality of the beef shine. 

For those wanting to experiment or entertain, we recommend buying a variety from your local meat shop. You can buy Wagyu beef, buy lamb shanks, or buy premium chicken meat to enjoy different taste experiences in one meal. 

How to Grill House-Made Sausages 

Grilling sausages might seem straightforward, but getting that perfect balance of snap, juiciness, and caramelized skin requires proper technique. 

Equipment Needed: 

• Gas or charcoal grill: Gas grills allow easy temperature control, while charcoal gives an unbeatable smoky flavour. 
• Long-handled tongs: Essential for turning sausages gently without piercing their casing. 
• Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your sausages are cooked safely and perfectly every time. 

Step-by-Step Grilling Guide: 

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat (approximately 350°F). A consistent temperature prevents sausages from burning outside while remaining raw inside. 
2. Bring sausages to room temperature by letting them sit on the counter for 15–20 minutes. Cold sausages can cook unevenly. 
3. Place sausages over indirect heat and close the lid. Cook them slowly for about 12–15 minutes, rotating every few minutes. This gentle method prevents casing from splitting and locks in juices. 
4. Move the sausages over to direct heat for 2–3 minutes. This step crisps the skin and adds those beautiful grill marks and a smoky finish. 
5. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness. Aim for 160°F for pork or lamb, and 165°F for chicken sausages. 
6. Remove from heat and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows internal juices to redistribute, enhancing flavour and texture. 

Pro Tips: 

• Avoid piercing sausages with a fork. This causes flavourful juices to escape, leaving dry meat. 
• Don’t rush. High heat can cause sausages to burst and dry out. A slow-and-steady approach yields better results. 
• Use a two-zone grill setup (one side hot, one side medium/low) to easily transition between searing and indirect cooking. 

Pairing Sausages with the Perfect Sides 

Great sides elevate a BBQ from good to unforgettable. Think beyond ketchup and mustard and complement the Savory sausage with vibrant accompaniments. 

Top Pairing Ideas: 

• Grilled corn on the cob with chili butter: Adds a smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy element that pairs well with the savory flavors of sausages, especially lamb or pork. 
• Caramelized onions and bell peppers: Classic toppings for bratwursts and Italian sausages. These add sweetness and depth while making a beautiful, colourful presentation. 
• Whole grain mustard or Dijon sauce: The tang and acidity cut through the fat of sausages, enhancing each bite. 
• Crusty bread or ciabatta buns: A hearty base that holds up well with juicy sausage and allows for plenty of toppings without becoming soggy. 
• Chilled local craft beer or dry cider: Beer adds a refreshing contrast to the heat of grilled food. Cider, especially dry or spiced varieties, pairs exceptionally well with both pork and chicken sausages. 

Mix things up by offering a sausage board with a few styles of sausages, condiments, and sides turn your cookout into a tasting experience. 

Hosting a Gourmet BBQ: Tips from Ontario Meat Shop Pros 

A successful BBQ is more than just great meat, it’s about planning, presentation, and variety. Here’s how to elevate your next gathering. 

• Plan variety: Offer multiple sausage options such as a mild Italian, spicy lamb, and luxurious Wagyu. This caters to diverse tastes and keeps things interesting. 
• Create a toppings bar: Provide a range of condiments and grilled veggies. Include pickled onions, different mustards, relishes, roasted garlic, and shredded cheese so guests can customize their sausage experience. 
• Prep in advance: Bring sausages to room temperature before grilling, par-cook thicker links, and have sides ready to serve so you’re not stuck at the grill. 
• Think of everyone: Don’t forget plant-based options and side dishes like pasta salad, grilled veggies, and fruit platters to balance the meat-heavy menu. 

And most importantly, source your ingredients well. When you buy fresh turkey, lamb shanks, or house-made sausage links from a trusted Ontario meat shop, you know you’re serving high-quality meats that will make your BBQ memorable. 

Beyond Sausages: Grilling Other Premium Cuts 

Looking to expand your grill game? Here are some gourmet meats that grill beautifully and complement your sausage menu. 

• Buy Wagyu beef ribeye steaks: Cook over high heat for a quick sear and serve medium-rare to highlight the meat’s buttery marbling and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. 
• Buy lamb shanks: Slow-cook them in foil or a cast iron skillet with wine, garlic, and rosemary for 2–3 hours on a low grill setting. Finish with a glaze for extra depth. 
• Buy premium chicken meat: Use skin-on thighs for kebabs, grill-stuffed chicken breasts, or marinate boneless breast in citrus and herbs before grilling. 
• Buy fresh turkey: Perfect for leaner grillers. Brine the breast and grill until golden. Slice and serve with cranberry chutney or grilled peaches. 

Conclusion 

Grilling house-made sausages is more than a weekend tradition, it’s an opportunity to bring restaurant-quality food into your own backyard. By selecting preservative-free, handcrafted sausages and grilling them with intention and care, you elevate the entire BBQ experience. Pairing your sausages with creative sides, quality condiments, and local beverages makes your meal memorable for everyone involved. Contact us 

Whether you’re a first-time griller or a seasoned BBQ enthusiast, sourcing your meat from a trusted Ontario meat shop ensures you’re getting the best in flavour, freshness, and craftsmanship. From Wagyu sausages to lamb shanks and premium chicken, your next cookout can be a culinary masterpiece. 

So fire up the grill, experiment with bold Flavors, and enjoy the satisfaction of grilling like a true pro because great food starts with great ingredients and ends with unforgettable moments shared around the table. 

Ready to taste the difference that premium meats make? 
Visit our Ontario butcher shop or browse our online store for house-made sausages, Wagyu beef, lamb shanks, premium chicken, and more. Order today for pickup or Ontario-wide delivery and turn your next BBQ into a gourmet feast. 

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