How to Cook Knockwurst

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Knockwurst is a German sausage that's known for it's garlicky and smoky flavors. Because knockwurst is a pre-cooked sausage, preparing it is fast and simple compared to other sausages. Knockwurst is typically served in a bun with condiments like sauerkraut, mustard, and fried onions. The most common way to cook knockwurst is with the boiling method, but you can also pan-fry, grill, or bake it.

Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Boiling Knockwurst

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b2\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b2\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Bring a pot of salted water to a boil . Fill a large pot 3/4ths of the way with water. Add 2 pinches of table salt to the water and set your burners to high. Let the water heat up until bubbles start to break on the surface.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/35\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Let the boiling water settle for a minute or two. You don't need to cook knockwurst in boiling water because they are already pre-cooked. The water should be hot enough to cook the knockwurst, but not boiling. [1]
    • Don't put the knockwurst in boiling water or you'll overcook them.
    Advertisement
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    Use a pair of tongs to slowly lower the knockwurst into the hot water. Once they are in the water, cover the pot with a lid. The knockwurst will finish cooking in the hot water. [2]
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    Use your tongs to pull the knockwurst from the hot water. Arrange the knockwurst on a plate or in a cooking tray. [3]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Popular garnishes for boiled knockwurst include sauerkraut, mustard, and fried onions. Many people eat their knockwurst in a bun. You can store the knockwurst for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
    6. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Baking Knockwurst in the Oven

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You should always preheat the oven before your bake knockwurst. Preheating the oven will ensure that the knockwurst gets an even cook throughout. [4]
  2. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    You can cut the knockwurst into pieces, slices, or you can butterfly them down the center. If you cut the knockwurst into pieces, you can incorporate it into another baked dish, such as a casserole or baked macaroni and cheese.
    • Cutting the knockwurst is also useful to create bite-sized pieces.
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    Arrange the knockwurst on the bottom of the dish. If you kept the knockwurst whole, slicing them halfway down the middle will encourage a more even cook. You can place the knockwurst on a bed of sliced onions or sauerkraut to enhance their flavor. [5]
    • Make sure to place the knockwurst an even distance apart so that you don't crowd and undercook them.
  4. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    Knockwurst is often baked with baked beans, black beans, kidney beans, onions, or bacon. If you want to enhance the flavor of your baked knockwurst, pour a can of beans, chopped onion, or a couple of slices of bacon over the knockwurst before you put them in the oven. [6]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/55\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Continue cooking the knockwurst at 300 °F (149 °C). Open the oven and look at the knockwurst. They should be golden brown and fragrant. [7]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/6a\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-11-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-11-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Wear a pair of oven mitts when you remove the cooking dish from the oven. Let the knockwurst cool for 2-3 minutes before serving it. You can store the cooked knockwurst in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
    7. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Pan-Frying Knockwurst

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    You can use olive, canola, or peanut oil to fry your knockwurst. If you want to inject more flavor, sauté onions in the oil before you cook the knockwurst. [8]
    • If you sauté onions before cooking the knockwurst, remember to season them with salt and pepper.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-13-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-13-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5f\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-13-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-13-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Turn the stove onto medium-hot heat and start to heat up the oil. Tilt the pan once the oil heats for a minute to see if it's hot. You should heat the oil until it flows smoothly in the pan like water. The surface of the oil should glisten and shimmer. [9]
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    You can cook the knockwurst whole or cut into pieces. As you cook the knockwurst, turn them regularly to ensure an even cook throughout. The outside of the knockwurst should be brown. [10]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-15-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-15-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7f\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-15-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-15-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a pair of tongs to get the knockwurst out of the pan. If you want to soak up some of the oil, you can place the knockwurst on paper towels. Let the knockwurst cool for 2-3 minutes before you serve them. Knockwurst is typically served on a bun and topped with fried onions, sauerkraut, or mustard.
    • You can store cooked knockwurst in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them up to 3 months.
    5. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Cooking Knockwurst on the Grill

PDF download Download Article
  1. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    A low-heat grill is required so that you can get an even cook on the knockwurst without burning it. Do not put the knockwurst on a high-heat grill or you will burn the outside without cooking the center.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/64\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-17-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-17-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/64\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-17-Version-3.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-17-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Place the knockwurst on the grill with tongs. As the knockwurst cooks, it should develop grill marks on the side facing the grill. [11]
  3. Watermark wikiHow to Cook Knockwurst
    Flipping the knockwurst over will ensure that it cooks all the way through and will create grill marks on both sides of the knockwurst. When the sausage is fully cooked it should be grey or brown throughout and the juices should run clear.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5e\/Cook-Knockwurst-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/aid9719872-v4-728px-Cook-Knockwurst-Step-19-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":259,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":410,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Grilled knockwurst will have a nice snap to them. Popular condiments for them include mustard, sauerkraut, grilled onions, and mustard. If you have leftover knockwurst you can store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
    5. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How long should I cook a knockwurst in a microwave?
    Community Answer
    I would cook it for around 5-7 minutes.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 14 Helpful 8
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Things You'll Need

      Boiling Knockwurst

      • Salt
      • Water
      • Cooking pot
      • Tongs
      • Sauerkraut (optional)
      • Mustard (optional)
      • Fried onions (optional)

      Baking Knockwurst in the Oven

      • Knife
      • Cooking dish
      • Oven mitts
      • Beans (optional)
      • Bacon (optional)
      • Onions (optional)

      Pan-Frying Knockwurst

      • Cooking oil
      • Pan
      • Tongs
      • Sauerkraut (optional)
      • Mustard (optional)
      • Fried onions (optional)

      Cooking Knockwurst on the Grill

      • Tongs
      • Sauerkraut (optional)
      • Mustard (optional)
      • Fried onions (optional)

      Tips

      • The internal temperature of the knockwurst should be 155 °F (68 °C). You can use a meat thermometer to test the internal temperature of the knockwurst.
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Defrost Sausage
      2 Ways to Tell If Sausage Is Cooked (Plus Sausage Recipes)
      How to Cook Sausages on the Stovetop, Oven, Grill, and More
      Tasty Ways to Cook Vienna Sausage (with Recipe Ideas)
      How to
      Oven Cook Sausages
      How to
      Cook Weisswurst
      How to
      Cook Deer Sausage
      How to
      Cook Italian Sausage
      How to
      Cook Breakfast Sausage
      How to
      Cook Blood Sausage
      How to
      Cook Hot Links
      How to
      Cook Frozen Sausages
      How to
      Make Sausage Rolls
      How to
      Cook Bratwurst in the Oven
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ http://www.germanfoodguide.com/wurstdetail.cfm?wurst_number=13
      2. ↑ http://www.germanfoodguide.com/wurstdetail.cfm?wurst_number=13
      3. ↑ http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2012/05/grilled-bratwurst-with-beer-mustard-and-sauerkraut-recipe.html
      4. ↑ https://www.epicurious.com/expert-advice/do-i-really-need-to-preheat-the-oven-article
      5. ↑ http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/baked-beans-and-knockwurst-2378170
      6. ↑ http://cookingontheweekends.com/2016/01/knockwurst-and-the-best-baked-beans-ever-recipe/
      7. ↑ http://www.quartermaster.army.mil/jccoe/publications/recipes/section_l/L11301.pdf
      8. ↑ https://jamiegeller.com/recipes/knockwurst-with-sauerkraut-and-potatoes/
      9. ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/quick-tip-how-to-tell-when-oil-53815
      1. ↑ https://jamiegeller.com/recipes/knockwurst-with-sauerkraut-and-potatoes/
      2. ↑ https://youtu.be/eZJlERQwbws?t=2m27s

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      Since knockwurst is a pre-cooked sausage, it’s fast and easy to prepare. To boil knockwurst, start by filling a large pot with water and adding 2 pinches of table salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil, then turn off your stove and let the water settle for a minute. Put the knockwurst in the water and cover the pot with a lid. After 10 to 15 minutes, pull the knockwurst out of the pot and serve them on a bun or with sauerkraut, mustard, and fried onions. To learn how to bake knockwurst in the oven, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 102,837 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement