
Crispy and Healthy Fried Vienna Sausage
Nutritional value per serving
Calories200kcal
Carbs4gram
Fat12gram
Protein8gram
Ingredients
- Vienna sausages (canned, whole)6 piece
- Olive oil (or other healthy cooking oil)1 tbsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)to taste n/a
- Optional: garlic powder1/4 tsp

This recipe shows you how to fry Vienna sausage whole to achieve a perfectly crispy, flavorful snack or meal addition with a healthy twist. Using minimal oil and moderate heat, the sausage cooks through evenly while maintaining a delicious texture and taste. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $2 / €1.8 / £1.5 / ₹150, suitable for a quick budget-friendly meal. Each serving provides about 200 kcal with balanced protein and fat content. This recipe is easy to prepare, takes just 15 minutes, and is suitable for those looking for quick, tasty, and slightly healthier fried sausage options.
Preparation instructions
Drain and pat dry the sausages
1Open the can of Vienna sausages and drain the liquid. Use paper towels to pat the sausages dry; this step is key to getting them crispy without excess splatter.
Heat the pan with oil
2Place a non-stick skillet on medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat for about 1-2 minutes until shimmering but not smoking. Proper oil temperature ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Fry the sausages whole
3Place the whole Vienna sausages in the hot oil. Arrange them so they don't touch each other for even frying. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally using tongs. Cook until the exterior is golden and slightly crispy.
Check doneness and internal temperature
4Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausages. It should reach at least 74°C (165°F) for safety. Since these are pre-cooked sausages, heating sufficiently is enough for safety and flavor.
Season and serve
5Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper and optional garlic powder on the fried sausages while still warm. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Cooking Tips
1Use a splatter screen to minimize oil splatter for safety and easier cleanup.
2Do not overcrowd the pan; overcrowding causes steaming, not frying, resulting in soggy sausages.
3Always use a clean plate and utensils for the cooked sausages to avoid cross-contamination.
4If you prefer less oil, you can also dry-fry the sausages in a non-stick pan, turning frequently.
Equipment
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Tongs
- Food thermometer
- Paper towels
- Splatter screen (optional)
Shopping List
- [ ] Vienna sausages (6 pieces, canned) - Approx. $1.50. Look for sausages with simple ingredients and no added preservatives for a healthier choice.
- [ ] Olive oil (small bottle) - Approx. $5 (you'll use only 1 tbsp). Choose extra virgin for best quality.
- [ ] Black pepper - Approx. $2 per jar. Freshly grind for better flavor.
- [ ] Optional: Garlic powder - Approx. $1.50 per jar. Adds nice flavor if you like garlic.
FAQ
Can I use other types of sausages for this method?
Yes, you can fry other pre-cooked sausages similarly, but adjust cooking times slightly based on size and type.
Do Vienna sausages need to be cooked thoroughly?
Canned Vienna sausages are pre-cooked. Frying heats them through and adds flavor and texture. Ensure they reach 74°C (165°F) internally for safety.
How can I avoid oil splatters when frying?
Pat the sausages dry before frying and use a splatter screen. Fry over medium heat and don't overcrowd the pan.