Pan-Seared Sausages in Garlic Herb Butter Sauce

Pan-Seared Sausages in Garlic Herb Butter Sauce are a rustic, deeply flavorful main dish that’s both simple and satisfying. Juicy, golden-brown sausages are finished in a rich garlic-infused butter with fresh herbs, making this an easy go-to meal that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor. The sausages are perfectly seared for a crisp outer layer, while the buttery sauce brings aromatic richness from garlic and herbs. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a comforting meal any night of the week.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh sausage links (pork, chicken, or beef)
Butter
Garlic, finely minced
Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Optional: Red pepper flakes or lemon zest for added brightness

Directions

Prepare the Sausages: Pat sausages dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Sear the Sausages: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausages and sear until browned on all sides, about 8–10 minutes total. Lower the heat, cover, and cook until fully cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F/71°C).
Make the Sauce: Push sausages to one side of the pan. Add butter and garlic to the other side. Sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in fresh herbs and optional red pepper flakes or lemon zest.
Combine and Glaze: Spoon the butter sauce over the sausages, turning them to coat evenly. Simmer for another 2 minutes.
Serve: Transfer sausages to a plate and drizzle with remaining garlic herb butter.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

Add Wine: Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding butter for a more complex sauce.
Include Vegetables: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a fuller dish.
Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage or add chili oil to the butter sauce.
Herb Swaps: Use rosemary, sage, or dill for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store sausages and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot, spooning sauce over the top.
Freezing: Freeze cooked sausages in sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What type of sausage is best for this recipe?

Pork, chicken, or turkey sausages all work well. Use your favorite style—mild or spicy.

Can I use pre-cooked sausages?

Yes. Brown them briefly in the skillet and warm through in the butter sauce.

What sides pair best?

Mashed potatoes, polenta, rice, sautéed greens, or crusty bread are excellent options.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version.

How do I avoid burning the garlic?

Cook garlic over medium-low heat and stir constantly once added.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes. Cook the sausages and prepare the sauce, then reheat gently before serving.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, especially if served with low-carb sides like cauliflower mash.

What herbs are best?

Parsley and thyme are classic, but rosemary, oregano, or basil also work well.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the butter reduce slightly in the pan. Adding a splash of cream also creates a thicker, richer sauce.

Can I cook the sausages in the oven?

Yes, but for best flavor, sear them in the skillet first and then finish in the oven if needed.

Conclusion

Pan-Seared Sausages in Garlic Herb Butter Sauce is a no-fuss, high-flavor meal that comes together quickly and pleases every palate. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes or pair it with sautéed vegetables, this dish is a reliable classic that delivers rich, comforting results with minimal effort.