How To Cook Raw Sausages In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Sausages are a versatile and flavorful protein that can elevate almost any meal, from hearty breakfasts to comforting dinners. Cooking raw sausages in a slow cooker is an especially convenient method, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while freeing you from constant supervision. Unlike frying or grilling, slow cooking transforms sausages into tender, juicy delights without the risk of burning or uneven cooking. The slow cooker also makes it easier to infuse your sausages with complementary ingredients like onions, peppers, herbs, or sauces. Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner or preparing a meal for a crowd, understanding the nuances of cooking raw sausages in a slow cooker ensures perfect results every time.

How Long To Cook Raw Sausages In Slow Cooker

Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the sausages, the type (pork, beef, chicken, or plant-based), and your slow cooker’s specific settings. As a general rule:

• Low heat: 6-8 hours
• High heat: 3-4 hours

It’s important to remember that slow cookers vary in performance. Some may cook slightly faster or slower than these general guidelines, so always check doneness before serving. Cooking sausages too long can cause them to dry out, while insufficient cooking may leave them unsafe to eat.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Unlike frying or grilling, slow-cooked sausages don’t show obvious visual cues like browning. The safest and most reliable method to ensure sausages are fully cooked is:

1. Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the sausage. Pork and beef sausages should reach 160°F (71°C), while poultry sausages require 165°F (74°C).
2. Juices: When pierced, the juices should run clear, not pink or red.
3. Texture: Fully cooked sausages are firm to the touch but still plump and juicy, without being rubbery.

Ingredients Needed

Cooking sausages in a slow cooker doesn’t require an extensive list of ingredients. Here’s a simple yet flavorful foundation:

• Raw sausages (pork, beef, chicken, or plant-based)
• 1-2 cups of liquid (water, broth, wine, or a tomato-based sauce)
• Vegetables (onions, bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes)
• Seasonings and herbs (garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, or black pepper)
• Optional: mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or a splash of cider vinegar for added depth

These ingredients can be adjusted according to taste preferences or dietary restrictions. The beauty of slow cooker cooking lies in its flexibility.

How To Cook Raw Sausages In Slow Cooker

Here’s a step-by-step guide for tender, flavorful sausages:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice onions and peppers, chop vegetables, and season them with your chosen herbs.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker: Place vegetables at the bottom; this prevents sausages from sticking and allows juices to circulate.
3. Add the Sausages: Arrange sausages on top of the vegetables, leaving a little space between each for even cooking.
4. Add Liquid: Pour your broth, sauce, or other cooking liquid over the sausages and vegetables.
5. Set the Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, ensuring the internal temperature reaches safe levels.
6. Finish & Serve: For extra flavor, you can briefly sear the sausages in a hot pan before serving, or enjoy them straight from the slow cooker with the tender vegetables and juices.

When Things Go Wrong

Even slow cooking can encounter hiccups:

• Sausages still raw: Check the temperature and continue cooking. Some slow cookers have uneven heat, so stirring occasionally may help.
• Sausages dry out: Reduce cooking time next time or add more liquid. Avoid cooking on high for extended periods.
• Sauce too thin: Thicken by removing the lid near the end of cooking or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water.
• Overcrowding: Overloading the slow cooker can cause uneven cooking. Ensure sausages are not stacked too tightly.

Expert Tips

1. Brown First (Optional): Browning sausages in a skillet before slow cooking enhances flavor but isn’t necessary.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: Add delicate herbs like parsley or basil near the end of cooking to preserve aroma and taste.
3. Don’t Skip the Lid: Keeping the lid on prevents moisture loss and ensures even cooking.
4. Stir Occasionally (if possible): Especially if cooking for longer durations, occasional stirring distributes heat evenly.
5. Pair Wisely: Slow-cooked sausages pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread that soaks up the juices.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes. If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can achieve similar results with:

• Oven Baking: Arrange sausages and vegetables in a covered baking dish at 325°F (160°C) for 45-60 minutes.
• Stovetop Simmering: Cook sausages in a covered pot with liquid over low heat for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

The slow cooker’s advantage is convenience and low-maintenance cooking, but these alternatives can still produce tender, juicy results.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Leftover sausages can be safely reheated in a slow cooker without compromising texture:

1. Place the sausages and any remaining liquid or sauce in the slow cooker.
2. Heat on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Avoid using high heat for reheating, as this can make sausages rubbery.

FAQs

Can I Cook Raw Sausages Directly In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, raw sausages can be cooked directly in a slow cooker. It is recommended to add a small amount of liquid, such as broth, water, or sauce, to prevent them from sticking and to ensure even cooking. Cooking times may vary depending on the type of sausage and the slow cooker model.

Do I Need To Brown Sausages Before Using A Slow Cooker?

Browning sausages before slow cooking is optional but recommended. Browning adds flavor and improves texture by creating a caramelized exterior. If you choose to skip this step, the sausages will still cook safely and taste good, but they may appear paler and less rich in flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Raw Sausages In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking raw sausages in a slow cooker typically takes 4-6 hours on the low setting or 2-3 hours on the high setting. Exact times can vary depending on the sausage size, type, and whether additional ingredients are included.

What Liquid Should I Use When Slow Cooking Sausages?

You can use water, chicken or beef broth, beer, tomato sauce, or a combination of these liquids. The liquid helps keep the sausages moist and infuses them with additional flavor. Generally, 1/4 to 1/2 cup of liquid per batch is sufficient.

Can I Cook Frozen Sausages In A Slow Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook frozen sausages directly in a slow cooker. Slow cookers heat food gradually, which may leave the interior undercooked and unsafe. It is safer to thaw sausages in the refrigerator before slow cooking.

How Do I Know When Sausages Are Fully Cooked In A Slow Cooker?

Sausages are fully cooked when their internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for pork or beef sausages, and 165°F (74°C) for poultry sausages. Use a food thermometer to ensure safety and avoid undercooking.

Can I Add Vegetables To Slow-cooked Sausages?

Yes, vegetables such as onions, peppers, potatoes, and carrots can be added. Harder vegetables should be placed at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure they cook evenly. Softer vegetables can be added later to avoid overcooking.

Will Slow-cooked Sausages Fall Apart?

If cooked for too long or on very high heat, sausages may split or break apart. To maintain shape, cook on low heat and avoid stirring excessively. Choosing thicker sausages can also reduce the risk of falling apart.

Can I Cook Sausages With Pasta Or Rice In The Slow Cooker?

Yes, but it is best to add pasta or rice during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. Adding them too early can cause them to overcook and become mushy, as slow cookers cook food over a long period of time.

How Should I Store Leftover Slow-cooked Sausages?

Allow the sausages to cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.