Introduction
Nothing beats the bold, smoky flavors of grilled kielbasa sausage cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill. This recipe delivers crispy sausage with a juicy interior, paired with caramelized onions and tangy mustard for the ultimate flavor. The high heat of the center grill grate locks in juices, while the flat cooktop ensures a perfectly even sear. Get ready for a taste of Nebraska-style grilling at its finest!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs kielbasa sausage, whole
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Get the Arteflame grill ready
- Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
- Place the soaked napkins in the grill.
- Stack firewood over the napkins.
- Light the napkins and wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach full heat.
Step 2: Prepare the onions
- Slice the onions into thin strips.
- Melt 1 tbsp butter on the flat cooktop near the center.
- Add the onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
- Move to a cooler section of the flat cooktop to keep warm.
Step 3: Sear the kielbasa
- Place the whole kielbasa sausage on the center grill grate.
- Sear for 1-2 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown.
- Move the sausage to the flat cooktop to finish cooking.
Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop
- Cook the kielbasa on the flat cooktop for another 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove from the grill once the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes as it continues cooking to 160°F.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice the kielbasa into bite-size pieces.
- Serve with caramelized onions and both types of mustard.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Tips
- Using butter instead of olive oil enhances the flavor.
- Always rest the kielbasa before cutting to retain juiciness.
- Cook the onions near the center for a deep caramelization.
- Move food around to different heat zones for optimal cooking.
- For extra char, briefly return the sausage to the center grill before serving.
Variations
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Spicy Kielbasa: Add red pepper flakes and a splash of hot sauce to the mustard.
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Garlic Herb Kielbasa: Grill with fresh garlic and rosemary for added depth.
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Cheddar Kielbasa: Melt shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage before serving.
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BBQ Kielbasa: Glaze the sausage with BBQ sauce before removing from the grill.
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Smoky Beer Kielbasa: Brush with beer and smoked paprika for a deep, rich flavor.
Best Pairings
- Grilled corn on the cob
- German-style potato salad
- Buttery pretzel rolls
- A cold lager or pilsner
- Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast
Conclusion
Grilling kielbasa on the Arteflame brings out unmatched flavors and textures. Keep experimenting with different heat zones and toppings to create your perfect version of this Nebraska-inspired dish.