BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches offer an incredibly easy and flavorful meal that promises to delight every member of your family! Imagine succulent smoked sausage, perfectly grilled and bathed in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled within a buttery toasted bun. The crowning glory? A generous topping of Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut, which adds a unique sweet and savory tang that elevates these sandwiches to an irresistible level. While these sandwiches are a phenomenal choice for grilling or smoking, making them a summer staple, their versatility means you can enjoy them year-round, preparing them effortlessly on your stovetop, in your oven, or even a slow cooker. This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing together smoky flavors, a hint of spice, and the refreshing zest of sauerkraut for a truly memorable bite.
These BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches are not only incredibly delicious but also remarkably simple to prepare, making them an ideal candidate for your regular meal rotation. The ease of assembly combined with the profound flavors makes them a weeknight hero or a weekend feast. They truly shine during grilling season, as cooking them outdoors infuses them with that unmistakable smoky depth that everyone craves. Picture this: tender slices of smoked sausage ring, generously slathered in a vibrant and spicy homemade barbecue sauce, then cooked until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized, clinging perfectly to each piece of sausage. The aroma alone is enough to gather the entire family around the grill!
To serve these culinary masterpieces, gently warm and butter your favorite buns until they’re golden and slightly crisp. Then, pile high the saucy smoked sausage and crown it with a helping of Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut. This unique kraut adds a layer of complexity and a tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the sausage and sauce, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Don’t forget to grab plenty of napkins – these irresistible sandwiches are wonderfully messy and absolutely worth every bite!
This delightful post is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut. All opinions expressed here, along with my genuine, lifelong affection for their exceptional sauerkraut, are entirely my own. My family’s tradition of enjoying Frank’s Kraut spans decades, a testament to its unparalleled quality and taste.
The Allure of Grilled Smoked Sausage
Grilling season is officially here, and the excitement is palpable! There’s something undeniably special about cooking outdoors, enjoying the fresh air, and savoring the unique flavors that only a grill or smoker can impart. While we certainly cherish our tried-and-true grilling recipes, such as this Smoked Turkey and these finger-licking Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Pork Ribs, discovering and developing new dishes for the grill is a passion of mine. It’s a joy to create fresh, exciting recipes that not only delight my family but also inspire my wonderful readers to fire up their grills.
Living in Nebraska means that the opportunity to use our outdoor grill or smoker is somewhat seasonal. During those precious months when the weather is cooperative, we seize every chance to cook outside. This makes grilling an even more anticipated and celebrated event, transforming simple meals into cherished family gatherings.
Elevate Your Grill Out with Frank’s Kraut
Each May, I eagerly anticipate the tradition of creating a new grilling recipe in collaboration with my cherished friends at Frank’s Kraut. For those who have followed my culinary journey, you’ve undoubtedly noticed my deep-seated admiration and love for their exceptional sauerkraut. It’s more than just a condiment; it’s a versatile ingredient that truly transforms a dish.
Far from being limited to just topping a hot dog, kraut is, without a doubt, one of my absolute favorite grilling ingredients. Its tangy, savory profile adds a remarkable dimension to a variety of grilled meats. My personal favorites include Sauerkraut Bacon Wrapped Brats, savory Swiss Cheese Kraut Burgers, and the classic Grilled Polish Sausage & Sauerkraut – dishes that are guaranteed to make your mouth water. And if you’re not yet a believer in the magic of kraut, this incredible Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin with Sauerkraut Stuffing will surely convert you into a lifelong enthusiast!
Creative Ways to Serve BBQ Smoked Sausage
Our absolute favorite way to enjoy BBQ Smoked Sausage is undoubtedly on a perfectly toasted bun. A smoked sausage sandwich is a truly delightful and unique twist on traditional BBQ fare, offering a satisfying alternative to a classic pulled pork sandwich. The robust flavor of the sausage, combined with the sweet and smoky sauce, creates a symphony of tastes and textures that is hard to beat.
For those looking to reduce carbohydrate intake, you can effortlessly skip the bun and savor the delicious smoked sausage in BBQ sauce on its own. This allows the rich flavors of the sausage and sauce to truly shine, making for a hearty and flavorful low-carb option.
Alternatively, transforming the sliced sausage into Smoked Sausage Bites makes for an outstanding appetizer. Served simply on a platter, these flavorful bites are reminiscent of everyone’s favorite Little Smokies, but with an elevated, homemade BBQ twist. They are perfect for parties, game nights, or as a delicious starter before the main meal.
Crafting the Perfect BBQ Sauce for Sausage
While a good quality bottled barbecue sauce can certainly work in a pinch for this recipe, I wholeheartedly encourage you to take a few extra minutes to prepare your own Homemade BBQ Sauce. My recipe is incredibly straightforward, utilizing common pantry staples, yet the resulting flavor is seriously next level – a truly transformative experience compared to store-bought options. For this particular BBQ smoked sausage recipe, I’ve added a dash of red pepper flakes to my standard sauce to impart a delightful hint of heat, which perfectly complements the smoky sausage. However, if you prefer a milder flavor profile, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes without sacrificing any of the sauce’s incredible depth. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes in this homemade sauce creates a rich glaze that truly makes these sandwiches sing.
Essential Ingredients for BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches
For complete, detailed instructions and the full list of ingredients, please refer to the recipe card located at the bottom of this post.
The heart of this recipe lies in the homemade barbecue sauce, crafted from these flavorful components:
- Brown Sugar: Whether you choose dark or light brown sugar, it adds a crucial depth of sweetness and molasses notes to the sauce.
- Honey: Raw, local honey is my personal favorite, contributing a natural, floral sweetness and a lovely sticky texture to the sauce.
- Ketchup: Use your preferred brand as the base; it provides the essential tomato foundation and tang.
- Soy Sauce: I always opt for low sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness, adding a savory umami depth.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient is key for introducing that bright, essential tang that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Sriracha: A touch of Sriracha provides a subtle kick of heat. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A powerhouse of complex flavors, Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, fermented depth that is indispensable.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic contributes an aromatic and pungent note that ties all the flavors together.
- Red Pepper Flakes: These are entirely optional but highly recommended for an additional layer of mild heat, creating a dynamic flavor profile without being overly spicy.
For assembling the irresistible sandwiches, you will need:
- Smoked Sausage Ring: A high-quality smoked sausage ring is the star. This recipe also works exceptionally well with Polish sausage or turkey kielbasa for varied flavor profiles.
- Buns: I personally adore using onion buns from the bakery; their subtle onion flavor adds an extra dimension. Remember to have some butter on hand for toasting the insides of your buns, creating a golden, slightly crispy texture.
- Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut: This is the secret weapon! If you use this specific kraut, I guarantee you won’t need any other condiments. Its sweet, smoky, and tangy notes are absolute perfection, perfectly complementing the rich sausage.
Mastering the Art of BBQ Smoked Sausage Preparation
The following instructions detail the preferred method for grilling smoked sausage in BBQ sauce, yielding that incredible outdoor-cooked flavor. For alternative preparation methods like oven baking, stovetop cooking, or using a crockpot, please refer to the detailed notes within the recipe card at the conclusion of this article. These versatile options ensure you can enjoy this delicious meal any time of the year, regardless of the weather.
STEP 1: PREHEAT YOUR COOKING APPLIANCE
Begin by preheating your grill or pellet smoker to a steady 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Achieving the correct temperature is crucial for evenly cooking the sausage and allowing the sauce to perfectly caramelize.
STEP 2: CRAFT YOUR HOMEMADE BARBECUE SAUCE
In a small saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Sriracha, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the brown sugar has completely dissolved and the sauce begins to warm through and slightly thicken. This process melds all the flavors beautifully.
STEP 3: PREPARE THE SAUSAGE FOR COOKING
Carefully slice the smoked sausage ring into uniform, bite-sized pieces. Transfer these pieces to the bottom of a sturdy cast-iron skillet. The cast-iron skillet is ideal for this recipe as it retains heat exceptionally well and can withstand high grilling temperatures, ensuring even cooking and a beautiful sear.
Generously pour the prepared homemade barbecue sauce over the sliced sausage. Stir gently to ensure that every piece of sausage is thoroughly coated in the rich, glossy sauce. This step is essential for maximum flavor absorption.
Carefully place the cast-iron skillet onto the preheated grill. Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, stirring the sausage about halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heating and sauce distribution. The sausage is ready when the barbecue sauce is vigorously bubbling and the sausage pieces are heated through and slightly caramelized. Remove the skillet from the grill once cooked.
While the sausage finishes cooking, butter the cut sides of your buns. Place them on the grill, cut-side down, for a minute or two until they are beautifully golden and lightly toasted. This adds a wonderful texture and rich flavor to your sandwich.
Generously scoop the hot, barbecued sausage onto the toasted buns. Don’t be shy – the more sausage, the better!
Complete your masterpiece by topping each sandwich with a hearty serving of Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut. This tangy addition is what truly sets these sandwiches apart.
Serve immediately and enjoy the incredible flavors of your homemade BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches!
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
Don’t let this incredible BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwich recipe get lost in the shuffle! Make sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you can easily find it whenever that barbecue craving strikes. Share the deliciousness with your friends and family too!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches
While simply opening a bag of chips or preparing some frozen French fries is always an easy option, elevating your meal with homemade side dishes truly adds that extra “oomph,” making the dining experience even more special and satisfying. Homemade sides provide fresh flavors and textures that perfectly complement the richness of the BBQ smoked sausage.
Consider these delightful homemade chips and fries to accompany your sandwiches:
- Homemade Baked Potato Chips: Crispy, seasoned potato chips that are a healthier alternative to fried versions.
- Easy Double Fried French Fries: Achieve restaurant-quality crispy fries right in your own kitchen.
- Baked Sweet Potato Chips: A naturally sweet and slightly healthier chip option, full of flavor.
- Italian Baked Zucchini Chips: A light, savory, and wonderfully crispy vegetable-based chip.
Serving BBQ with a fresh, vibrant salad is always a fantastic choice, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty main course.
Explore these delicious Salad Recipes:
- Potato Salad (pictured above): A creamy, classic favorite that is a staple at any BBQ.
- Bacon Cashew Broccoli Salad: A crunchy, savory, and surprisingly refreshing salad with a delightful dressing.
- Sauerkraut Salad: A unique and tangy salad that perfectly complements the flavors of smoked sausage.
- BLT Pasta Salad: All the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich, deconstructed into a satisfying pasta salad.
- Mom’s Macaroni Salad: A timeless, comforting macaroni salad that evokes nostalgic backyard BBQ memories.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips for Making the Best BBQ Smoked Sausage
How long do you cook BBQ Smoked Sausage? The beauty of smoked sausage is its convenience. It comes pre-cooked, so your main goal is simply to heat it through until it’s warmed and bubbly. When cooking it on a smoker or grill, you’re not just heating it; you’re infusing it with an incredible smoky flavor, giving it that amazing double-smoked appeal that we all adore. This process also allows the BBQ sauce to thicken and caramelize, adding another layer of deliciousness.
What is the best way to cook Smoked Sausage? Smoked sausage is incredibly versatile, making it a favorite in many of my recipes! You can cook it in a multitude of ways: on the grill for a smoky char, in the oven for hands-off convenience, in your pressure cooker or crockpot for tender, slow-cooked results, or even incorporated into dishes like fried rice prepared in a wok or skillet on your stovetop. It also makes a fantastic addition to various soups. Remember, since it’s already fully cooked, the primary objective is simply to heat it thoroughly and allow it to absorb the flavors of your chosen cooking method and accompanying ingredients.
What goes on a Smoked Sausage Sandwich? For *this* particular sandwich, with its robust homemade BBQ sauce and the unique sweetness and tang of Frank’s BBQ Kraut, you genuinely don’t need much else. The combination is a flavor sensation all on its own! However, if you’re keen to add more condiments or toppings, thinly sliced red onion, crisp pickle slices, or a sprinkle of hot peppers would all make excellent choices, adding extra texture and a personalized touch to your delicious sandwich.
Discover Two Exciting New Flavors from Frank’s Kraut!
Recently, Frank’s Kraut, a brand beloved for its exceptional quality, unveiled two fantastic new sauerkraut flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. First up is their innovative Mustard Kraut, a delightful blend featuring the classic tang of dill pickle relish, perfect for adding a zesty kick to a variety of dishes. The second exciting addition is the Sweet and Smoky BBQ Kraut, which is masterfully crafted with brown sugar and a special blend of spices to create a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and smoky notes – precisely the kraut that elevates these incredible BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches! You can conveniently order both of these new flavors, along with their traditional offerings, online through their web store right now. Don’t miss out on special deals and updates by signing up to receive their newsletter!
I recently had the pleasure of creating two fantastic recipes using the new Mustard Kraut, and my family absolutely adored them:
Perfectly Breaded Pork Cutlets
The Remarkable Health Benefits of Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is much more than just a delicious condiment; it’s a nutritional powerhouse packed with an array of essential vitamins. Rich in Vitamins C and K, low in sugar, and impressively high in fiber, kraut has historically been revered as a versatile folk remedy for various ailments across cultures for centuries. It’s truly wonderful when modern scientific research validates many of these traditional beliefs, confirming the significant health merits of fermented foods like sauerkraut.
This fermented cabbage contributes to gut health by introducing beneficial probiotics, which can aid digestion and support a healthy immune system. Its high fiber content also promotes digestive regularity and satiety. Incorporating sauerkraut into your diet is a simple and delicious way to boost your overall well-being.
Are you a true sauerkraut aficionado, or simply curious to learn more? Dive deep into everything you ever wanted to know about kraut! Discover its fascinating origins, how it’s traditionally made, and explore an abundance of innovative sauerkraut recipes in this comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Sauerkraut.
A Legacy of Flavor with Frank’s Kraut
My profound appreciation for Frank’s Kraut extends far beyond just a few years; it truly spans decades. For generations, it has been the exclusive sauerkraut of choice for my family, a significant testament given our rich Polish and German heritage. That preference speaks volumes about the consistent quality and authentic taste that Frank’s Kraut delivers.
You can explore a wealth of fantastic sauerkraut recipes right here on my blog, offering creative ways to incorporate this versatile ingredient into your meals. Additionally, the official Frank’s Kraut Website is an invaluable resource for even more culinary inspiration. For those who can’t get enough kraut, I even curate a dedicated Pinterest Board exclusively for sauerkraut recipes! Make sure to follow Frank’s Kraut on their social media channels – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest – to stay updated on new recipes, tips, and promotions all year round.
The next time you’re planning a barbecue or simply craving a delicious, easy meal, remember to Grill Out with Frank’s Kraut! It’s an addition that promises to elevate any dish.
Now, let’s get cooking and create these incredibly delicious BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches!
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BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches with Kraut
BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches are an easy meal that the whole family will love! Serve on buttery toasted buns topped with a helping of Frank’s Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut. These irresistible sandwiches are fantastically made on your grill or smoker, but can be made year-round on your stovetop, in your oven, or slow cooker!
5 mins
30 mins
35 mins
Sandwiches
American
BBQ Sauerkraut, BBQ sausage, Frank’s kraut, grilling, Homemade BBQ Sauce, sausage sandwich, smoked sausage, smoker recipe, toasted buns
4 sandwiches
674 kcal
Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
- Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Lid
- Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet With Assist Handle, 10.25″, Black
- Char-Broil 4-Burner Cart Style Liquid Propane Gas Grill
- Traeger Pellet Grills Pro Series 780 Pellet Bronze Grill, Smoker
Ingredients
- 14 ounce smoked sausage
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 Tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon Sriracha
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 onion hamburger buns
- Frank’s BBQ Kraut
Instructions
- Preheat grill or pellet smoker to 350 degrees.
- Place brown sugar, honey, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, Sriracha, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) into a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved, stirring occasionally.
- Slice sausage into bite-sized pieces and place them into the bottom of a cast-iron skillet.
- Pour barbecue sauce over the top of the sliced sausage and stir to coat them evenly.
- Place the skillet on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring about midway through. When the sauce is bubbling and the sausage is hot, remove it from the grill.
- Butter the insides of the buns and pop them on the grill to toast them lightly.
- Scoop the barbecued sausage onto the toasted bun and top generously with Frank’s BBQ Kraut.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
1
|
Calories:
674
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
68
g
|
Protein:
25
g
|
Fat:
35
g
|
Saturated Fat:
12
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
18
g
|
Cholesterol:
89
mg
|
Sodium:
2039
mg
|
Fiber:
4
g
|
Sugar:
51
g