Butterflying sausages is a simple cooking technique that opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to grilling, pan frying, or stuffing sausages. By slicing the sausage lengthwise and flattening it out, more surface area is exposed to heat for faster, more even cooking. Butterflying also allows you to pack more flavors and textures into each sausage through creative toppings and fillings. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn proper butterflying techniques and discover some mouthwatering recipe ideas.
What is Butterflying Sausages?
Butterflying refers to the process of slicing a sausage vertically along its length without fully cutting through and then opening it up so it lies flat This exposes more of the interior to direct heat contact, reducing overall cooking time. It also presents a large, even surface for adding ingredients like cheese, herbs, or veggies The finished shape resembles the opened wings of a butterfly, hence the name.
Nearly any type of raw or precooked sausage can be butterflied, including:
- Bratwurst
- Chorizo
- Hot dogs
- Italian sausage
- Smoked sausage
- Breakfast links
- Andouille
Larger sausages around 4 inches long work best to allow ample space for a slit while still keeping the sausage intact.
Benefits of Butterflying Sausages
There are several advantages to butterflying sausages versus leaving them whole:
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Faster cooking: Butterflying cuts cooking time by a lot because it exposes more surface area to the heat source. This allows the interior to cook through quickly and evenly.
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Also, more surface area makes it easier to get a crispy, charred outside that’s full of great flavor.
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Even browning: Sausages brown more evenly when butterflied instead of curving with inconsistencies.
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Ideal for stuffing: The open space is perfect for adding yummy fillings like cheese, veggies, or herbs.
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Better presentation: Butterflied sausages simply look more appetizing and professional when plated.
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Easier to eat: They can be served already sliced open and ready to top with your favorite condiments.
Step-By-Step Guide to Butterflying Sausages
Follow these simple steps for perfectly butterflied sausages every time:
1. Select Your Sausages
Choose sausages that are:
- Fully cooked – Raw sausage filling will spill out when cut.
- At least 4 inches long – Allows enough room to split open.
- Similar in size – Ensures even cooking.
- Plump – Easier to butterfly thinner sausages.
2. Prep Your Workspace
You’ll need:
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Paper towels – For cleaning excess oil
Make sure your knife is sharp for clean, safe cuts.
3. Cut Vertically Along One Side
Position the sausage lengthwise on the cutting board. Starting at one end, use the knife to slice down one side of the sausage, stopping about 1/2 inch before cutting through fully.
4. Open the Sausage Gently
Carefully spread the sausage open along the slit you made. If the sausage stays closed, you may need to widen the cut slightly by making another shallow slice parallel to the first.
5. Flatten the Sausage
Once open, press gently to flatten out the sausage into an even layer. Don’t press too hard or the sausage may break apart.
6. Add Fillings (Optional)
If desired, you can stuff ingredients like shredded cheese, minced herbs, or chopped veggies into the center channel of the butterflied sausage.
7. Cook as Desired
The sausage is now ready to be cooked through your preferred method. Pan fry, grill, or bake until heated through and lightly crisped on the outside.
Handy Tips for Butterflying Success
Keep these tips in mind for perfect butterflied sausages every time:
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Let cooked sausages cool slightly before cutting – this prevents the filling from spilling out.
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Use a sharp, non-serrated knife for the cleanest cut.
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Work slowly and gently when opening the sausage to keep it intact.
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Consider toothpicks to keep stuffed sausages closed while cooking.
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Brush with oil before cooking for optimal browning.
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Flip halfway during cooking for even searing on both sides.
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Don’t overstuff – leave room for the filling to heat through.
Creative Recipe Ideas
Butterflying opens up a whole new world of tasty ways to enjoy sausages. Try out these delicious recipes:
Italian Sausage Egg Scramble
Cook butterflied Italian sausage in a skillet until browned. Whisk eggs with milk, salt, and pepper then add to the skillet. Stir frequently until eggs are set. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped basil.
Cheesy Jalapeño Popper Sausages
Butterfly smoked sausage lengthwise and stuff with a mixture of cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped jalapeños, and bacon bits. Secure with toothpicks and bake until heated through.
Greek Stuffed Sausages
Fill butterflied sausages with a blend of feta, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives. Pan fry until browned then finish cooking in tomato sauce.
Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dog Bites
Wrap strips of bacon around bite-sized pieces of butterflied hot dogs. Secure with toothpicks and bake until the bacon is crispy.
Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Smokies
Saute thinly sliced onions in butter until caramelized. Stuff into butterflied smokies along with goat cheese crumbles and fresh thyme. Bake until melted and tender.
Get creative with globally inspired spices, cheeses, veggies, and sauces. The possibilities are endless!
Tips for Stuffing Sausages
Stuffing butterflied sausages helps add flavor and texture variety in each bite. Follow these tips for success:
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Cool sausages before stuffing so filling doesn’t melt out.
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Don’t overstuff – leave room for fillings to heat through.
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Cream cheese helps bind ingredients.
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Pre-cook raw veggies to remove excess moisture.
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Chop fillings small so they distribute evenly.
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Toothpicks can secure the open sides closed.
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Prevent leaks by cooking stuffed sausages on a foil-lined pan.
With the right fillings and a few handy tricks, stuffed sausages take the flavor up a notch.
Learning how to properly butterfly sausages unlocks a whole new realm of possibilities when cooking with sausages. This simple technique results in better browning, faster cooking times, and the ability to creatively fill, top, and stack sausages. While it may take a few tries to master the proper slicing method, the benefits and versatility of butterflied sausages make it a valuable skill for any cook. So grab some sausages and a sharp knife and get ready to butterfly your way to better home-cooked meals.
Easy and quick Butterfly sausage recipe
FAQ
Should you butterfly sausage before grilling?
How to butterfly bratwurst?
Do you remove casing from Johnsonville sausage?
How do you butterfly a cut of meat?
Butterflying is a simple method for modifying a cut of meat by slicing it in half horizontally. You can cut it through completely in this fashion and end up with two thin pieces, or take care not to cut through the other side, and open it like a book. This serves to even-out a cut of meat and extend the surface area.
Is sausage casing healthier option to eat?
Cellulose casings and some natural casings are perfectly fine to eat. Sausage casings are used to hold and shape filling inside so that it can be cooked. There are natural sausage casings and synthetic varieties, and most of them are edible. The healthiest way to cook them is by boiling or baking. Sausages provide high levels of vitamin B12 and iron, both of which are essential for healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin production.
Can You butterfly meat?
When you cut the meat and spread it open, it resembles the wingspan of a butterfly. You can butterfly various types of meat including beef filets, whole chickens, and fish filets. Butterflying meat has numerous benefits, including the following. It allows the meat to cook more evenly.
Why do you butterfly meat?
When you butterfly meat, you end up with a smooth side that will sit on your cooking surface. Butterflying can be used to transform cuts of meat into special dishes like stuffed chicken breasts and stuffed pork loin. This method is also great for reducing cook times, which is perfect for chefs who are pressed for time.