Vienna Sausage Guide
Published 2026-10-28
Vienna sausages are small, fully cooked sausages packed in cans, usually in a light broth. They are cheap, shelf-stable and ready to eat straight from the can, which makes them a favorite for quick snacks, camping trips, fishing outings, work lunches and emergency kits. Here is what to know before you buy, plus ideas that go beyond eating them with a fork.
What is in the can
Vienna sausages are typically made from a blend of meats such as chicken, pork and beef, ground finely and stuffed into short links. They are fully cooked during canning, then packed in broth. Recipes vary by brand, so check the ingredient list if you avoid certain meats. Flavors range from original to smoked, hot and spicy and barbecue.
Choosing a pack size
The standard can is about 4.6 ounces with several small links. Six-packs and twelve-packs are popular because one can is a single snack, and multi-packs bring the cost down. Pull-top lids mean you do not need a can opener, which is useful for lunch boxes and the outdoors. Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place.
Easy ways to eat them
Eat them straight from the can with crackers and cheese, or drain and warm them in a skillet until lightly browned. Slice them into scrambled eggs, fried rice or macaroni and cheese. Wrap them in crescent roll dough and bake for quick pigs in a blanket. Heat them in barbecue sauce or a little grape jelly and chili sauce for a party appetizer.
Tips
The broth is salty, so drain it unless a recipe calls for it. Pair sausages with fresh vegetables, fruit or whole grain crackers for a more balanced snack. If you have any leftover after opening, move them to a covered container in the refrigerator and eat them within a few days. Read nutrition labels if you are watching sodium or fat.
Packing them for trips
Vienna sausages are popular on fishing and hunting trips because they need no cooling before opening. Pack a few cans with crackers, a sleeve of cheese snacks and fruit cups for an easy no-cook lunch.
