Grilled Michigan Sausage with Caramelized Onions

Introduction

Enjoy the delicious flavors of locally made Michigan sausage grilled to perfection on the Arteflame. Topped with sweet caramelized onions, this dish is packed with flavor and has an incredible texture. Using the reverse searing method, we'll lock in the juices for the juiciest sausage while simultaneously caramelizing onions on the Arteflame flat cooktop. Let's fire up the grill and get started!

Ingredients

• 4 locally made Michigan sausages
• 2 large yellow onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 fresh sausage buns
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Start Caramelizing the Onions

1. Add butter to the flat cooktop to melt.
2. Spread the sliced onions over the butter and sprinkle with salt, sugar, and black pepper.
3. Cook the onions on medium heat zone, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).

Step 3: Sear the Sausages

1. Place the sausages directly on the center grill grate for about 1-2 minutes per side to get a steakhouse-quality sear.
2. Once browned, move them to the flat cooktop to gently cook through.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Sausages

1. Let the sausages cook on the flat cooktop, rotating occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 150°F.
2. Remove the sausages from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes as they will continue cooking off the grill.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Toast the sausage buns on the outer edge of the flat cooktop until slightly crispy.
2. Place a sausage in each bun.
3. Top with caramelized onions and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
4. Add Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• For even more flavor, try lightly buttering the buns before toasting on the grill.
• Keep an eye on the onions and stir occasionally to prevent burning.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure sausages reach the proper internal temperature.
• Let the sausages rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.

Variations

1. Spicy Sausage Variation: Use spicy Michigan sausage and add red pepper flakes to the caramelized onions.
2. Cheese Lover’s Sausage: Top sausages with melted Gouda or sharp cheddar before serving.
3. Garlic Herb Sausage: Add minced garlic and fresh rosemary while caramelizing onions.
4. Apple Cider Sausage: Deglaze onions with a splash of apple cider for a sweet twist.
5. Beer-Braised Sausage: Cook sausages with a splash of beer on the flat top for extra depth of flavor.

Best Pairings

• Cold craft beer (such as a Michigan IPA or amber ale)
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Homemade coleslaw
• Sweet potato fries
• A light and zesty cucumber salad

Conclusion

Grilling Michigan sausage on the Arteflame creates an unbeatable taste that's rich, juicy, and perfectly seared. The caramelized onions add a delightful sweetness, making this a must-try dish. Whether enjoyed as a main course or part of a cookout, this recipe is sure to impress. Try one of the variations for a unique twist, and don't forget to pair this dish with a refreshing beverage!