Kansas City Hot Links - Spicy Smoked Sausages

Introduction

Get ready to grill mouthwatering Kansas City hot links with the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and juicy flavors. Using the Arteflame grill, you’ll achieve a superior sear on the center grill grate at 1,000F, locking in all the juices before finishing them on the flat cooktop. Serve these flavorful sausages with crusty bread and mustard for an authentic backyard BBQ experience.

Ingredients

• 6 hot link sausages
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 crusty bread rolls
• 1 cup spicy brown mustard
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to establish.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the grill reaches optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the sausages

1. Sprinkle smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne over the sausages.
2. Rub the seasoning evenly across each sausage.

Step 3: Sear the sausages

1. Place the sausages on the center grill grate for an intense 1,000F sear.
2. Grill for 1-2 minutes per side, ensuring a deep, golden sear without burning.

Step 4: Finish cooking on the flat cooktop

1. Move the sausages to the flat griddle cooktop surrounding the grill grate.
2. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160F, then remove them when they hit 145F to account for carryover cooking.

Step 5: Grill the bread

1. Spread butter on the cut sides of the bread rolls.
2. Place the rolls face down on the flat cooktop until golden and crispy.

Step 6: Assemble and serve

1. Slice the sausages in half lengthwise.
2. Place them in the toasted bread rolls.
3. Top with mustard, sliced red onion, and pickled jalapeños.
4. Serve immediately while hot.

Tips

• Remove the sausages from the grill at 145F to allow them to reach 160F off the heat.
• Use high-quality firewood for an authentic smoky flavor.
• Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper.
• Let the grill heat properly before placing any food on it.
• Keep an eye on the bread to prevent burning.

Variations

1. Cheddar-Stuffed Hot Links: Stuff sausages with cheddar cheese before grilling for a melty surprise.
2. Bacon-Wrapped Hot Links: Wrap each sausage in bacon before placing it on the heat for extra smokiness.
3. Sweet and Smoky Hot Links: Add honey and smoked paprika to the seasoning blend for a balanced sweet-spicy kick.
4. BBQ Glazed Hot Links: Brush sausages with your favorite BBQ sauce while cooking for extra flavor.
5. Tex-Mex Hot Links: Top with grilled peppers, onions, and a touch of guacamole.

Conclusion

Grilling Kansas City hot links on the Arteflame grill ensures bold, juicy, and flavorful sausages with the perfect sear and smokiness. With crusty toasted bread and zesty mustard, this dish is an easy and delicious way to elevate any BBQ. Try the variations to customize your hot links to your taste!

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
• Baked beans with smoky bacon
• Roasted potatoes with garlic and rosemary
• A cold craft beer or tangy lemonade