Kentucky Cast-Iron Seared Country Sausage

Introduction

Bring out the smoky, rich flavor of authentic Kentucky country sausage by searing it on the blazing hot center grill grate of the Arteflame. This method locks in the juices, creating a mouthwatering sear while finishing it to perfection on the flat cooktop. Grilling sausage over an open fire has never been easier — or tastier!

Ingredients

• 1 lb Kentucky-style country sausage, cut into links
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp coarse salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
4. Allow about 20 minutes for the grill to heat up.

Step 2: Preheat the center grill grate

1. Ensure the central grill grate reaches around 1,000°F for a perfect sear.
2. Spread 1 tbsp of butter onto the flat cooktop near the grate.

Step 3: Sear the sausage

1. Place the sausage links directly on the center grill grate.
2. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until a deep crust forms.
3. Move the sausages to the surrounding flat cooktop area.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Reduce heat by moving sausages to a cooler zone on the griddle.
2. Brush with remaining butter and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Cook, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 150°F.

Step 5: Rest and serve

1. Remove sausages from the grill once they hit 150°F.
2. Let them rest for 5 minutes, during which they will rise in temperature.
3. Drizzle with optional maple syrup before serving.

Tips

• Use an instant-read meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
• Move sausages across different heat zones to control doneness.
• For extra flavor, grill some onions and peppers on the flat cooktop alongside the sausages.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun Sausage: Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper and serve with grilled bell peppers.
2. Sweet & Smoky: Brush with honey and sprinkle with smoked paprika before grilling.
3. Garlic Herb: Mix minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs into melted butter before basting.
4. Maple Bourbon Glaze: Drizzle with a bourbon-maple reduction after grilling.
5. Cheese-Stuffed Sausage: Slice open sausages and insert shredded cheddar before grilling.

Best pairings

• Grilled cornbread with honey butter
• Charred Brussels sprouts with bacon
• Fire-roasted potatoes with rosemary
• Smoky barbecue baked beans
• Bourbon-infused sweet tea

Conclusion

Kentucky Cast-Iron Seared Country Sausage on the Arteflame grill is a surefire way to create a juicy, flavorful dish with a rich, caramelized sear. The combination of open-fire cooking and precise searing makes this a must-try grilling favorite.