Guides · Grilling
How Long to Grill Italian Sausage (and the Right Internal Temp)
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Quick answer
Grill raw Italian sausage over medium heat (350–400°F) for 15–20 minutes, turning often, until it reads 160°F (71°C) inside, or 165°F (74°C) for chicken or turkey sausage. Use a cooler zone if the links brown too quickly and confirm doneness with an instant-read thermometer.
How to grill Italian sausage
1. Heat the grill to medium (350–400°F) and set up a cooler zone with no flame underneath.
2. Grill raw Italian sausage over medium heat, turning every 3–4 minutes, for 15–20 minutes total.
3. If the casings flare or brown too fast, move the links to the cooler zone and close the lid.
4. Check with an instant-read thermometer: pull pork sausage at 160°F, poultry sausage at 165°F.
5. Rest 3 minutes, then serve with grilled peppers and onions on toasted rolls.
Sausage internal temperature chart
Always measure in the thickest part of the link, not touching the grill grate.
- Pork Italian sausage: 160°F (71°C)
- Beef or lamb sausage: 160°F (71°C)
- Chicken or turkey sausage: 165°F (74°C)
- Precooked / smoked sausage (kielbasa, andouille): reheat to 165°F (74°C)
How long to grill sausage
- Raw Italian sausage links, medium heat: 15–20 minutes
- Thick or jumbo links: 20–25 minutes
- Brats (raw): 18–22 minutes
- Precooked sausage: 6–10 minutes
- Bell pepper strips and onion rings in a grill basket: 10–12 minutes
Larry's grill rules
- Medium heat, not high — high heat splits casings and burns the outside before the middle is done.
- Never prick sausages; the juice is the point.
- Optional par-cook: simmer links in beer or water for 10 minutes, then grill 6–8 minutes for color.
Common questions
How long do you grill Italian sausage?
About 15–20 minutes over medium heat (350–400°F), turning every few minutes, until the inside reaches 160°F.
What is the safe internal temperature for sausage?
160°F (71°C) for pork, beef and lamb sausage; 165°F (74°C) for chicken and turkey sausage, per USDA guidance.
Can sausage be a little pink inside?
Yes, a slight pink color can remain from curing or seasoning. Temperature, not color, tells you it's done.
Should I boil sausage before grilling?
It's optional. A 10-minute simmer shortens grill time and reduces flare-ups, but grilling raw over medium heat gives more flavor.
What temperature should the grill be for sausage?
Medium, around 350–400°F, with a cooler zone to move links to if they brown too fast.