The Best Ways to Cook Boudin at Home - and How its Made

What is Boudin?

Boudin is a classic Southern delight, traditionally made from a mix of cooked pork, rice, onions, peppers, and seasonings all stuffed into a sausage casing. These days, some creative folks are addin' in unusual fillings like seafood to mix things up a bit. We have many partners that do this with Crawfish Boudin and Alligator Boudin to name a few!

How Do I Say Boudin?

This good ol' Cajun treat is pronounced “boo-dan.” We know it’s a bit of a tongue-twister!

What Else Can I Make with Boudin?

One simple and downright delicious way to enjoy boudin is to make boudin balls. Just take the sausage out of its casing, roll it into balls, bread 'em, and deep fry 'em until they’re perfectly crisp. They’re great on their own, but even better dipped in a creole mustard sauce.

For somethin' truly unique, try makin' a boudin king cake. Yes, you read that right! Spicy boudin is baked inside a slightly sweet, egg-based cake to create a Cajun taste sensation that’s perfect for Mardi Gras or any time you want to impress your guests with somethin' different and delicious.

Here we give you the best ways to cook and enjoy boudin!

How to Cook Boudin on the Stove

Cooking boudin on the stove is the way to go if you're lookin' for quick cookin' with loads of flavor. Turn your burner medium and put your preferred pan to cook with on top. If you're usin' a gas grill, or electric either work.

Place the sausage links directly in the pan for that crispy casing, you can start the burner on high and switch to medium or low to finish cooking it. Cook 'em for about 2-5 minutes per side until they reach 160°F inside.

How to Boil Boudin

Boilin' or poachin' boudin is the way to go if y'all wanna keep the outside tender while still makin' sure it's cooked through. Start by fillin' up a big ol' stockpot with water. A nice sauté pan works too. Toss in some seasonin' like salt, pepper, and a good dash of Cajun spice to give it that extra kick. Bring that water to a rolling boil and gently add your sausage links, makin' sure each one is fully submerged. Turn the heat down to a simmer and let 'em cook for about 10-15 minutes. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer; once it hits 160°F, your boudin is ready to serve up or mix into your favorite dish. 

How to Roast Boudin

Roastin' boudin is perfect if you want that crispy skin on the outside. Start by preheatin' your oven to 300°F. Lay your boudin links on a lightly oiled sheet pan or roastin' pan, keepin' 'em spaced apart so they cook evenly. Pop 'em in the oven and let 'em roast for about 20 minutes, flippin' each link every five minutes or so. Once they hit that magic 160°F on your thermometer, they're ready to enjoy. That crispy outside with the flavorful inside will be just right.

How to Grill Boudin

Grillin' boudin is the way to go if you're lookin' for quick cookin' with loads of flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat. If you're usin' a gas grill, that's easy, but for charcoal, just use enough to cover the bottom. Place the sausage links directly on the grill for that crispy casing, or wrap 'em in aluminum foil if you prefer 'em softer. You can also use a grill fryin' pan on the grates. Cook 'em for about 2-5 minutes per side until they reach 160°F inside.

How to Enjoy Boudin

Once your boudin is cooked to perfection, it's time to dig in! Slice it up and add it to some jambalaya, serve it on a bun with your favorite fixin's, or enjoy it with a creole side like Louisiana dirty rice. These tips work great for other sausages too, like Italian sausage, bratwurst, and chorizo.

No matter how you decide to enjoy your boudin, we got you covered.

Bon Appétit: Savor the Flavor!