Two types of nitrogen-doped graphene sheets (NGS) synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method are used to immobilize sulfur via an in situ sulfur deposition route. The structure and composition of the prepared nitrogen doped graphene/sulfur (NGS/S) composites are confirmed with X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images shows the porous sulfur particles are well wrapped by NGS. Compared with graphene/sulfur (GS/S) composite, the NGS-1/S composite with high loading (80 wt%) of sulfur presents a remarkably higher reversible capacity (1356.8 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C) and long cycle stability (578.5 mAh g−1 remaining at 1 C up to 500 cycles). Pyridinic-N rich NGS-1/S exhibits a better electrochemical performance than pyrrolic-N enriched NGS-2/S. The improvement of electrochemical properties could be attributed to the chemical interaction between the nitrogen functionalities on the surface of NGS and polysulfide as well as the enhanced electronic conductivity of the carbon matrix. Nitrogen doped graphene/sulfur composites, synthesized by two steps, trap polysulfide via surface interaction and show potential for Li–S batteries. Display omitted •Nitrogen-doped graphene sheets as a matrix to load sulfur for Li–S battery cathode.•NGS/S cathode shows enhanced electrochemical properties compared with GS/S cathode.•Pyridinic configuration contributes more to improved electrochemical performance.