Turkey sausage, like most sausage, usually comes pre-cooked from the manufacturer. However, it still requires some additional cooking before eating to ensure safety and optimal texture.
Is turkey sausage fully cooked when purchased?
Most turkey sausage is pre-cooked or smoked during manufacturing, but not always fully cooked. The level of pre-cooking can vary by brand. Here are some common practices for pre-cooked turkey sausage:
- Fully cooked – Heated to 160°F internally, safe to eat as-is.
- Partially cooked – Heated to 150°F then smoked. Needs additional cooking.
- Uncooked – Contains raw turkey, needs thorough cooking.
So while turkey sausage is often pre-cooked, it isn’t always. It’s important to read packaging and follow cooking instructions.
Does turkey sausage need to be cooked before eating?
Yes, turkey sausage should always be cooked thoroughly before eating, even if labeled pre-cooked. Here are some reasons why:
- Safety – Cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F kills any bacteria.
- Texture – Additional cooking firms up the texture.
- Flavor – Cooking enhances the flavor.
The safe internal temperature for turkey sausage is 165°F. Cooking it to this temperature helps make it fully shelf-stable and palatable to eat.
How to cook pre-cooked turkey sausage
Here are some common ways to cook pre-cooked turkey sausage:
- Pan frying – Cook over medium heat turning frequently until browned and 165°F.
- Baking – Place in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until 165°F.
- Microwaving – Microwave individual links for 60-90 seconds flipping halfway.
- Grilling – Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally for 12-15 minutes.
The goal is bringing the internal temperature to 165°F and crisping the exterior. Use a meat thermometer to verify temperature. The sausage may require 10-15 minutes total cooking time.
Tips for cooking turkey sausage
- Read package directions – Follow any specific cooking instructions.
- Use a meat thermometer – This helps ensure the sausage reaches 165°F.
- Cut into slices – Slicing links allows more even cooking.
- Cook thoroughly – Interior should not be pink and juices should run clear.
- Brown the outside – Browning makes the exterior crispy.
- Let rest 1-2 minutes – Allowing sausage to rest helps retain juices.
Following these basic tips will help ensure turkey sausage is fully cooked and safe to enjoy.
Is fully cooked the same as pre-cooked?
No, fully cooked and pre-cooked sausages are not the same:
- Fully cooked – Heated to 160°F+ during manufacturing. Safe to eat as-is.
- Pre-cooked – Partially cooked to 150°F then smoked. Requires more cooking before eating.
A fully cooked turkey sausage is ready to eat right out of the package. A pre-cooked sausage needs additional cooking at home before it can be safely consumed.
Common types of turkey sausage
There are many varieties of turkey sausage. Some common types include:
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Breakfast sausage | Seasoned with sage and other breakfast sausage spices. |
| Italian sausage | Seasoned with fennel seed, parsley, garlic. |
| Bratwurst | Flavored with garlic, ginger, nutmeg. |
| Kielbasa | Smoky, garlic-flavored Polish sausage. |
| Andouille | Spicy Cajun-style smoked sausage. |
Turkey sausage can be flavored just like popular pork and beef sausages while being lower fat.
Benefits of turkey sausage
Turkey sausage offers some benefits over other types:
- Lower fat than pork or beef sausage
- Less processed than chicken sausage
- Provides a meaty texture and flavor
- Good source of protein and nutrients
The lower fat content makes turkey sausage a healthier breakfast meat option. It can provide a satisfying meaty taste and texture without as much saturated fat as pork sausage.
Should turkey sausage be refrigerated?
Properly stored, an unopened pack of fully cooked turkey sausage can be kept refrigerated for 1 week past the sell-by date. Once opened, it should be used within 1 week. Raw or partially cooked turkey sausage should be used within 1 to 2 days.
For optimal safety and quality, it’s best to refrigerate turkey sausage once purchased and use within a week of opening. Unopened, fully cooked turkey sausage can last for 2 weeks refrigerated.
Can you freeze turkey sausage?
Turkey sausage can be frozen for longer term storage. Here are some freezing tips:
- Fully cook sausage before freezing for best texture.
- Portion into freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Remove as much air as possible.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Thaw in refrigerator before using.
Frozen turkey sausage may lose some texture quality but will remain safe to eat. Always thaw in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
Conclusion
Turkey sausage requires safe handling and thorough cooking just like any ground meat product. Most turkey sausage is pre-cooked so it simply needs to be heated through fully to 165°F before eating. Following basic safety practices along with label cooking instructions will ensure turkey sausage is safely enjoyed.