How To Cook Sausages In Slow Cooker On High [GUIDE]

Sausages are one of the most versatile and flavorful protein options in the kitchen. Whether made from pork, beef, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives, their rich taste and satisfying texture make them a staple for weeknight dinners, hearty breakfasts, and even festive gatherings. While many people default to pan-frying or grilling sausages, the slow cooker offers a hands-off approach that can deliver deeply infused flavors, tender meat, and minimal fuss. Cooking sausages in a slow cooker on high is particularly useful when you’re short on time but still want the tender, juicy result that slow cooking is known for. This method allows the sausages to cook evenly, soak in accompanying sauces or vegetables, and retain moisture without the constant attention of stovetop methods.

How Long To Cook Sausages In Slow Cooker On High

Timing is critical when cooking sausages in a slow cooker, especially on the high setting. Unlike the low setting, which can take up to 6-8 hours, the high setting accelerates the cooking process. Typically, sausages will cook thoroughly in 2 to 3 hours on high, depending on their size and thickness.

• Thin breakfast sausages may only need around 90-120 minutes.
• Standard pork or beef sausages usually require 2-3 hours.
• Thick or stuffed sausages might take slightly longer, closer to 3 hours.

It’s essential to avoid overcooking, as high heat can cause sausages to split or dry out. The goal is to cook them until fully done while maintaining moisture and flavor.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining if sausages are fully cooked is critical for both taste and food safety. Here’s how to check:

1. Internal Temperature: The most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Sausages should reach 160°F (71°C) for pork or beef, 165°F (74°C) for poultry, and 160-165°F for most plant-based varieties.
2. Visual Cues: Fully cooked sausages should have no visible pinkness in the center (unless they are specialty sausages that are safe to eat slightly pink, such as certain cured varieties).
3. Texture Check: When pierced with a fork, the juices should run clear rather than reddish. A slightly springy but firm texture indicates the sausage is done without being overcooked.

Ingredients Needed

While sausages themselves are the star, slow cooking allows you to build layers of flavor with complementary ingredients. A typical high-heat slow cooker sausage recipe might include:

• Sausages: 1-2 pounds of your preferred type.
• Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes.
• Liquid: ½-1 cup of broth, tomato sauce, or beer.
• Seasonings: Garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, salt.
• Optional extras: Mustard, Worcestershire sauce, or sliced tomatoes for added depth.

The beauty of slow cooking is that these flavors meld together, infusing the sausages with richness and complexity over a relatively short period on high heat.

How To Cook Sausages In Slow Cooker On High

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice vegetables and measure seasonings. If desired, lightly brown sausages in a skillet for 2-3 minutes per side to add caramelization.
2. Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place vegetables on the bottom, then add sausages on top. Pour the liquid over them.
3. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle herbs, spices, and any sauces over the sausages.
4. Cook on High: Set the slow cooker to high for 2-3 hours. Check at the 2-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
5. Finish and Serve: Once the sausages reach the safe internal temperature, remove from the cooker and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

This method ensures even cooking and a tender, juicy final product with minimal effort.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with the simplicity of a slow cooker, things can go awry:

• Sausages split or burst: Usually caused by extreme heat or overcooking. Browning beforehand and avoiding crowding in the pot can help.
• Sausages are dry: May occur if cooking time exceeds recommendations. Always monitor internal temperature to prevent this.
• Underseasoned: Slow cooking can dilute spices slightly; taste the liquid and adjust seasoning toward the end.

By understanding these potential pitfalls, you can troubleshoot and ensure consistently delicious results.

Expert Tips

1. Brown Beforehand: Adds flavor and helps sausages maintain shape.
2. Don’t Overcrowd: Sausages need space to cook evenly.
3. Layer Wisely: Denser vegetables like potatoes go on the bottom, softer ones on top.
4. Check Liquids: Ensure there’s enough moisture to prevent burning but not so much that sausages boil instead of slow-cooking.
5. Stir Carefully: If adding sauces midway, gently mix to avoid breaking sausages.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. You can adapt the method for the stovetop or oven:

• Stovetop: Simmer sausages and vegetables in a covered pan over low-medium heat for 25-40 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Oven: Place sausages in a covered roasting pan with vegetables and liquid, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness.

The slow cooker simply adds convenience and hands-off cooking.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

To reheat cooked sausages safely:

1. Place leftovers in the slow cooker with a splash of broth or sauce to prevent drying.
2. Heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
3. Avoid reheating on high to prevent overcooking or splitting.

This keeps sausages tender while preserving the infused flavors.

FAQs

How Long Should Sausages Be Cooked In A Slow Cooker On High?

Sausages typically take 2 to 3 hours to cook thoroughly in a slow cooker on the high setting. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness and type of sausage.

Do I Need To Brown Sausages Before Putting Them In The Slow Cooker On High?

Browning sausages is optional but recommended. Browning enhances flavor and texture, giving a caramelized exterior that adds depth to the final dish.

Can I Cook Frozen Sausages In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, frozen sausages can be cooked in a slow cooker on high, but it will extend the cooking time slightly, usually by 30 to 60 minutes, and you should ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What Liquid Should I Add When Cooking Sausages In A Slow Cooker On High?

You can add broth, water, tomato sauce, or a combination of these liquids to keep sausages moist and infuse flavor. Typically, 1/2 to 1 cup of liquid is sufficient for most slow cooker recipes.

How Can I Prevent Sausages From Sticking To The Slow Cooker On High?

To prevent sticking, lightly coat the slow cooker with cooking spray or a small amount of oil before adding sausages. Adding vegetables or a bit of liquid also helps create a barrier.

Is It Safe To Cook Sausages On High In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, cooking sausages on high in a slow cooker is safe as long as the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I Add Vegetables To Cook With Sausages On High In A Slow Cooker?

Absolutely. Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and onions work well and can be added at the beginning. Softer vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini should be added later to avoid overcooking.

Should I Cover The Slow Cooker When Cooking Sausages On High?

Yes, always cover the slow cooker to retain heat and moisture. Cooking on high with the lid on ensures sausages cook evenly and stay juicy.

How Can I Tell When Sausages Are Fully Cooked In A Slow Cooker On High?

The most reliable method is to use a meat thermometer. Sausages are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Additionally, juices should run clear and the meat should be firm to the touch.

Can I Cook Sausages With Sauce In A Slow Cooker On High?

Yes, sausages can be cooked directly in sauces, such as tomato-based or creamy sauces. Cooking on high will help the sausages absorb the sauce flavors while keeping them moist and tender.