A: According to the USDA FSIS, sausage can be frozen uncooked or cooked and ready to eat. Fresh sausages will keep for between one to two months whereas a cooked sausage will last between two to three.
When it comes to different types of cooked sausage the same rules apply to Bratwurst and Cumberland sausages you can also freeze cooked sausage rolls and sausage meatballs.
The only sausage you need to be mindful of is chorizo, Spanish chorizo is cured and will last for up to eight weeks without being frozen. Mexican chorizo, on the other hand, can be frozen cooked and uncooked.Looking to freeze other foods, check out our ultimate freezer guide.
How to freeze
1. Firstly, cook sausages as per your recipe or alternatively cook on medium-high heat in a well-oiled pan until cooked through.
2. Allow to cool completely before placing in layers in an airtight container. Line each layer with baking paper to stop the sausages from sticking together and so you can defrost a couple of sausages at a time (the same rules apply for sausage rolls and meatballs.)
3. Label the container with today’s date (and expiry date) and place in the freezer for no longer than three months.
Freezing options
You can freeze cooked sausages whole or in slices. Leaving the sausages whole will result in a longer defrost time but the sausages are then able to be crafted into multiple dishes. Although quick to defrost the downfall of freezing chopped sausages is that they are more susceptible to freezer burn.
How to defrost
Fridge
The simplest and safest way to defrost sausages is to place them on a plate in the fridge overnight.
Microwave
Alternatively, you can put frozen cooked sausages in your microwave on the defrost setting for up to 10 minutes for readily available sausages.Reheat as required in a pan, oven or microwave. Once defrosted you cannot refreeze the sausages.
FAQ’s
Can you freeze sausage meat stuffing?
You can freeze sausage meat stuffing raw for up to two months. Although we recommend rolling them with pastry and storing raw sausage rolls in the freezer for up to three months. They’re perfect for impromptu guests!
How long does cooked sausage last in the fridge?
Firstly, make sure you refrigerate sausages within two hours of cooking. If you store them in an airtight container they will last for up to four days.Ready to fill up your freezer? Here are thirteen foods you probably didn’t know you can freeze.
Sausage recipes
Feeling peckish? Us too. Here are three of our favourite sausage recipes or alternatively have a look at our full collection of sausage recipes.