9 Sausages To Avoid And 9 You Should Try, According To Meat Lovers

Navigating the world of sausages can be a culinary adventure, but not all sausages are created equal. Meat lovers often debate which sausages are a delight and which are a disappointment. Here’s a guide to help you decide on the best and avoid the worst, ensuring your next meal or barbecue is a success.

1. Cheap Breakfast Sausage Patties

Cheap Breakfast Sausage Patties
© Foris Extraordinary Meats

Often found languishing in the freezer aisle, cheap breakfast sausage patties are more filler than meat. These patties promise a quick breakfast but deliver a salty facade instead. Their texture can often be more akin to cardboard than the juicy, savory delight that sausage lovers crave.

Despite their convenience, they lack the succulent flavor and satisfying texture of their more refined counterparts. The high sodium content and artificial additives make them less appealing to those in search of quality. Best left on the shelf, these patties exemplify why sometimes, you get what you pay for.

2. Flavored Chicken Sausages With Fruit

Flavored Chicken Sausages With Fruit
© Aidells

The pairing of fruit and chicken may sound appealing at first glance, but flavored chicken sausages with fruit often fall short. The sweet-and-savory combination is a delicate balance that many brands fail to achieve, resulting in an overly artificial taste.

These sausages may boast of healthy ingredients, but the experience can often be underwhelming. The fruit can overshadow the chicken’s natural flavor, leading to a concoction that’s neither here nor there. For those with a discerning palate, these sausages may not satisfy the craving for something savory and authentic.

3. Low-Fat or Fat-Free Sausages

Low-Fat or Fat-Free Sausages
© Pig World

In the quest for health, some turn to low-fat or fat-free sausages, only to find them disappointing. Fat is integral to the rich, juicy flavor that sausages are known for, and its absence is keenly felt. Without it, sausages become dry, crumbly, and a shadow of their full-flavored selves.

While the idea of a healthier sausage may be enticing, the execution often leaves a lot to be desired. These sausages lack the indulgence that makes a meal memorable, and meat lovers might find themselves longing for more satisfying alternatives.

4. Mass-Produced Italian Sausage Brands

Mass-Produced Italian Sausage Brands
© Taste of Home

Mass-produced Italian sausage brands frequently promise the flavors of Italy but deliver something far less exciting. These sausages often lack the vibrant spices that make Italian sausage a beloved choice, resulting in a rubbery texture that disappoints.

Loaded with preservatives, their taste can be more chemical than culinary. For those seeking an authentic Italian experience, these sausages are best avoided. Instead, look for artisanal or local options that offer the rich flavors and traditional recipes that make Italian sausage truly special.

5. Pre-Cooked Hot Dog–Style Sausages Labeled as “Brats”

Pre-Cooked Hot Dog–Style Sausages Labeled as “Brats”
© Food Service Direct

Pre-cooked hot dog–style sausages labeled as ‘brats’ are a misleading choice for those expecting a genuine bratwurst experience. The name may suggest a succulent, juicy brat, but the reality is often closer to a salty hot dog.

These brats lack the freshness and flavor that define true bratwurst. The convenience of pre-cooked sausages might be tempting, but the taste doesn’t quite measure up. For those seeking that authentic brat flavor, sticking to fresh options is the way to go.

6. Vegan Sausages With Ingredient Lists a Mile Long

Vegan Sausages With Ingredient Lists a Mile Long
© Elavegan

Vegan sausages can be a hit or miss, especially when the ingredient list reads like a science experiment. While some offer a decent meat substitute, others taste off and can be hard to digest. The overly engineered nature of these products detracts from their appeal.

Instead of providing a straightforward, delicious alternative, they often complicate the simple pleasure of enjoying a sausage. The search for a palatable vegan sausage can be daunting, with these long-listed options often falling short of expectations.

7. Sausages With “Natural Flavor” as the Main Ingredient

Sausages With “Natural Flavor” as the Main Ingredient
© Yonder Way Farm

When ‘natural flavor’ is the main ingredient in a sausage, it raises eyebrows and questions alike. Unable to pinpoint the exact spices or meats involved, the consumer is left guessing. This vague labeling often signals a lack of quality.

The ambiguity can be unsettling, and the flavor often mirrors this uncertainty. For those who value transparency and authenticity in their food, these sausages may disappoint. Opting for sausages with clear, identifiable ingredients is a far tastier choice.

8. Microwave-Ready Sausage Links

Microwave-Ready Sausage Links
© Garden Grocer

Microwave-ready sausage links promise convenience but rarely deliver on flavor. The quick cooking method often results in a rubbery texture that leaves much to be desired. While they may save time, they also sacrifice taste.

For those craving a true sausage experience, these links might not satisfy. The convenience of microwave preparation is overshadowed by the lack of richness and juiciness that defines quality sausages. A traditional cooking method would yield a more satisfying result.

9. Cajun Sausages That Only Taste Like Salt

Cajun Sausages That Only Taste Like Salt
© I Love Meat

Cajun sausages promise a burst of bold spices but often deliver a mouthful of salt instead. The expectation of a flavorful experience is let down by an overpowering sodium content and artificial smoke flavor.

For those seeking the true essence of Cajun cuisine, these sausages fail to deliver. The lack of genuine spices and the overwhelming saltiness make them a poor choice for anyone looking to explore the rich flavors of Cajun cooking. Better options await those willing to seek them out.

10. Fresh Bratwurst (From a Butcher or Local Shop)

Fresh Bratwurst (From a Butcher or Local Shop)
© The Meat Block

Fresh bratwurst from a local butcher is a delight for the senses. Plump, juicy, and full of flavor, it’s an ideal choice for grilling and tailgating. The freshness of the meat shines through, offering a taste that’s far superior to its processed counterparts.

The experience of enjoying a freshly made brat is unmatched, as each bite provides a burst of well-balanced seasoning. For those who appreciate quality, this sausage is a must-try, bringing a touch of artisanal craftsmanship to the table.

11. Spanish Chorizo

Spanish Chorizo
© Aurelia’s Chorizo

Spanish chorizo is a culinary gem, dry-cured and boldly seasoned with paprika. Its rich red color and intense flavor make it a standout choice for snacking, charcuterie, or paella. The robust taste of chorizo is both satisfying and versatile.

Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with other delicacies, it offers an authentic taste of Spain. For those who appreciate strong flavors, Spanish chorizo is a must-try, adding depth and character to any dish it graces.

12. Italian Sausage (Hot or Sweet)

Italian Sausage (Hot or Sweet)
© Food & Wine

Italian sausage, whether hot or sweet, is a versatile addition to any meal. Fantastic in pasta, pizza, or simply grilled with peppers and onions, it serves as a kitchen workhorse. The robust flavor and balanced spices make it a favorite among many.

The option to choose between hot and sweet caters to diverse palates, offering something for everyone. For those who enjoy a touch of Italy in their cooking, Italian sausage is an essential ingredient that never disappoints.

13. Andouille Sausage

Andouille Sausage
© Serious Eats

Smoky, spicy, and coarsely textured, andouille sausage is a must-have for gumbo or jambalaya lovers. Its bold flavor and satisfying bite make it a standout choice for those who appreciate robust seasonings.

This sausage brings a touch of the Cajun spirit to any dish, with a richness that complements a variety of flavors. For culinary enthusiasts, andouille offers a taste of the South with every bite, elevating both traditional and modern recipes alike.

14. Boudin

Boudin
© Lafayette Travel

Boudin is a Cajun classic, stuffed with rice, pork, and spices. Its soft texture and flavorful filling have earned it a cult following among those who appreciate its unique blend. Boudin offers a taste of Louisiana’s culinary heritage.

With each bite, it delivers a comforting mix of spices and textures, making it a beloved choice for many. For those seeking something different, boudin provides an authentic Cajun experience that warms the soul with its hearty profile.

15. Merguez (North African Lamb Sausage)

Merguez (North African Lamb Sausage)
© Mezze.my

Merguez, a North African lamb sausage, is known for its spicy and earthy flavor. Packed with deep, rich seasoning, it grills beautifully and adds heat to any dish. This sausage is a cultural treasure, bringing the taste of North Africa to the table.

For those who enjoy bold flavors and a touch of spice, merguez is a delightful discovery. Its unique taste profile offers a departure from the ordinary, inviting culinary exploration and adventure.

16. Kielbasa (Polish Sausage)

Kielbasa (Polish Sausage)
© Vacchiano Farm

Kielbasa, or Polish sausage, is celebrated for its garlicky and smoky profile. With a juicy snap, it finds its place in stews, grilled dishes, and more. This sausage is a taste of Poland, offering a traditional and comforting flavor.

For those who appreciate the heartiness of Eastern European cuisine, kielbasa is a must-try. Its robust taste brings authenticity and warmth to any meal, making it a cherished choice among sausage lovers.

17. Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (Germany)

Nürnberger Rostbratwurst (Germany)
© Pretzel and Me

Nürnberger rostbratwurst, smaller and thinner than typical sausages, is a German delight. Seasoned with marjoram, these sausages are flavorful and aromatic. Traditionally served with mustard and sauerkraut, they provide a true taste of Germany’s culinary heritage.

For those who enjoy exploring international flavors, these sausages offer a unique and satisfying experience. Their delicate size and well-balanced spices make them an excellent choice for a variety of occasions.

18. Longaniza (Latin American or Filipino Variants)

Longaniza (Latin American or Filipino Variants)
© Jocyl’s Food Products

Longaniza is a flavorful sausage that varies across Latin America and the Philippines. Often sweeter and more aromatic than chorizo, it pairs wonderfully with eggs or in rice dishes. This sausage offers a taste of diverse culinary traditions.

For those interested in global flavors, longaniza provides a delicious exploration of cultural cuisine. Its unique taste brings a different dimension to traditional dishes, making it a savory and intriguing option for any table.