Breakfast Sausage
Savory and slightly sweet pork patties, perfectly spiced with sage, thyme, and a hint of maple. A classic American breakfast staple that's easy to make at home and far better than store-bought.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Combine Sausage Ingredients
- b.In a large bowl, place the ground pork. Sprinkle the maple syrup, dried sage, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, and optional ground nutmeg over the meat.
- c.Using your hands, gently mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Avoid overworking the mixture, as this can result in tough sausage patties.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Form the Patties
- b.For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sausage mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to meld.
- c.Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces each).
- d.Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten it into a patty approximately 3 inches in diameter and 1/2-inch thick.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Sausage
- b.Heat the vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat.
- c.Once the pan is hot, carefully place the patties in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- d.Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the patties are golden brown, caramelized, and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) on a meat thermometer.
- e.Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula as they cook to keep them juicy.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
- c.Let the sausages rest for a minute before serving. Serve hot with eggs, pancakes, or your favorite breakfast sides.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, let the mixed sausage meat rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before forming patties. This allows the spices to fully meld with the pork.
- 2Do not press down on the patties with a spatula while cooking. This squeezes out the flavorful juices and can result in dry sausages.
- 3These patties are perfect for meal prep. Cook a full batch, let them cool completely, and freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- 4Use ground pork with a fat content of at least 20% (often labeled 80/20). The fat is essential for keeping the sausages juicy and flavorful.
- 5For perfectly uniform patties, use a kitchen scale to weigh out 2-ounce portions of the meat mixture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Different Meat
Substitute the ground pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You may need to add a little extra oil to the pan as these meats have less fat.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Italian InspiredItalian-Inspired
Add 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds and a pinch of dried oregano for a flavor profile reminiscent of Italian sausage.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika into the spice blend for a delicious, smoky undertone.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Pork is a high-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. A single serving provides a significant portion of your daily protein needs.
Control Over Ingredients
Making sausage at home allows you to control the quality of the meat and the amount of salt and fat. You can also avoid the nitrates, nitrites, and other preservatives often found in commercial products.
Rich in B Vitamins
Pork is a good source of several B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), niacin (B3), and B6. These vitamins are crucial for energy metabolism, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of two homemade breakfast sausage patties contains approximately 280-320 calories, depending on the fat content of the ground pork used.