Mary KellyBefore diving into the mouth-watering world of homemade breakfast sausage, let’s talk about what you can enjoy with it. Imagine serving these juicy patties alongside fluffy scrambled eggs or atop a warm biscuit, smothered in rich gravy. Perhaps you prefer to add a bit of crunch? Try bacon and crispy hash browns. And let’s not forget a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet contrast that will take your taste buds on an exciting journey. Breakfast sausage isn’t just a dish; it’s a beautifully simple canvas for flavors and textures that delight the senses.
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I remember the first time I made homemade breakfast sausage. It was a chilly morning, the kind that compels you to retreat indoors. The smell of spices swirling around my kitchen filled the air with nostalgia, reminiscent of my childhood breakfasts. My family’s tradition was simple: gather around the table, share stories, and savor each bite.
This recipe goes beyond that tradition. With an emphasis on freshness and flavor, I crafted it to help you recreate those cozy breakfast experiences at home. Nothing beats the satisfaction of making your own sausage. The flavors are richer, the ingredients are healthier, and the experience is infinitely more rewarding.
What is Homemade Breakfast Sausage?
Homemade breakfast sausage is essentially a blend of selected meats, seasonings, and spices formed into patties or links. What sets it apart from store-bought options is the ability to control every element. From the type of meat to the spices, you can tailor it to your liking. Plus, you avoid preservatives and additives, making it a healthier choice.
Why This Recipe Works
This homemade breakfast sausage recipe is a winner for several reasons. Firstly, we use a combination of fresh herbs and spices that work beautifully together. The blend of pork shoulder gives richness without being overly greasy. The balance of sweet, spicy, and savory results in a flavor profile that is simultaneously comforting and extraordinary.
The use of simple ingredients that you can readily find at your local grocery store streamlines the cooking process. In addition, making sausage at home guarantees freshness, enabling you to experiment and adjust the flavors as per your preference.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Here’s a quick rundown of the essentials you’ll need to whip up this breakfast delight:
- 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or pre-ground pork
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage leaves
- 1 ½ teaspoons crushed red chili flakes
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons packed light brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, finely grated
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or canola oil
How to Make Homemade Breakfast Sausage
Now that we have the ingredients lined up, let’s get into the fun part. Making homemade breakfast sausage is straightforward, and it’s a perfect project for a weekend morning.
Step 1: Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
Start by pulling together your ingredients. If you’re using a whole pork shoulder, cut it into smaller chunks to make grinding easier. If you’re purchasing pre-ground pork, no need to worry! Either way, dice your herbs finely and have your spices at the ready.
Step 2: Mix the Spices
In a large bowl, mix together the fresh thyme, sage, crushed red chili flakes, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. This blend forms the backbone of flavor for your sausage.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Take the pork and add it to the spice mixture. Using your hands, mix everything together until well combined. It’s important not to over-mix, as you want to keep some texture in the meat.
Step 4: Form Patties
With the mixture ready, it’s time to form your sausage patties. Scoop out a handful of the mixture and shape it into patties. You can make them as thick or as thin as you like, but typically, ¼ inch thick works best for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Sausage
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, place the sausage patties in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Enjoy
As soon as you take these off the heat, you’ll want to enjoy them immediately. Serve them with your favorite breakfast sides or on their own. The aroma in your kitchen will make this step irresistible.
Tips for Success
Here are five valuable tips to ensure your homemade breakfast sausage turns out perfectly:
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but nothing beats the taste of freshly chopped thyme and sage.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the pork and spices, strive for a gentle touch. Over-mixing can lead to a dense sausage.
- Experiment with Spices: The spices listed are a great starting point. Feel free to add or substitute others based on your preferences—try adding fennel seeds for an Italian twist.
- Adjust for Spice Levels: If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you prefer milder flavors, use less.
- Proper Cooking Temperature: Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, you can store them easily. Place the cooked sausage patties in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just pop them in the microwave or on the stovetop to reheat.
Nutrition Information
While the exact nutrition facts can vary based on the specific ingredients used, here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on 1 patty):
How Would I Recommend Serving Homemade Breakfast Sausage?
1. Classic Breakfast Plate
Pair the sausage with scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, and a slice of toast. This combination is a breakfast classic and sure to satisfy!
2. Breakfast Sandwich
Layer the sausage on a biscuit or an English muffin. Add a fried egg and cheese for a filling breakfast sandwich that’s perfect for busy mornings.
3. Breakfast Burrito
Shred the sausage and toss it in a tortilla with scrambled eggs, avocado, salsa, and cheese. Roll it up, and you’ve got a grab-and-go meal.
4. Sautéed Veggies and Sausage
Mix sliced sausage into a skillet with spinach, bell peppers, and onions. Sauté until the veggies are tender. It’s a great addition to brunch!
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
If you find yourself missing an ingredient, here are some clever alternatives:
1. Pork Alternatives
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The spices will still deliver great flavor!
2. Herbs
If fresh thyme or sage isn’t available, dried versions can be used, though their flavor will be less potent. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for each tablespoon required.
3. Sweetener
For those avoiding brown sugar, honey or maple syrup can work as a sweetener, though they may alter the texture slightly.
4. Cooking Oil
If vegetable or canola oil isn’t at hand, olive oil is a fabulous choice and adds flavor.
Homemade Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by pulling together your ingredients. If you’re using a whole pork shoulder, cut it into smaller chunks to make grinding easier. If you’re purchasing pre-ground pork, no need to worry! Either way, dice your herbs finely and have your spices at the ready.
- In a large bowl, mix together the fresh thyme, sage, crushed red chili flakes, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. This blend forms the backbone of flavor for your sausage.
- Take the pork and add it to the spice mixture. Using your hands, mix everything together until well combined. It’s important not to over-mix, as you want to keep some texture in the meat.
- With the mixture ready, it’s time to form your sausage patties. Scoop out a handful of the mixture and shape it into patties. You can make them as thick or as thin as you like, but typically, ¼ inch thick works best for even cooking.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once hot, place the sausage patties in the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- As soon as you take these off the heat, you’ll want to enjoy them immediately. Serve them with your favorite breakfast sides or on their own. The aroma in your kitchen will make this step irresistible.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch, but nothing beats the taste of freshly chopped thyme and sage.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: When mixing the pork and spices, strive for a gentle touch. Over-mixing can lead to a dense sausage.
- Experiment with Spices: The spices listed are a great starting point. Feel free to add or substitute others based on your preferences—try adding fennel seeds for an Italian twist.
- Adjust for Spice Levels: If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you prefer milder flavors, use less.
- Proper Cooking Temperature: Ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety. A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the uncooked sausage patties?
Absolutely! You can shape them and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.
How can I make this sausage recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you steer clear of any additives. Just ensure all spices and meats are labeled gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover sausage?
Reheat your sausages in a skillet on medium-low heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for about 30 seconds, checking halfway.
How do I know when the sausages are done cooking?
Using a meat thermometer is best. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for safe eating.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to form and cook the patties.
Can I use a meat grinder to make my sausage?
Certainly! If you’re using pork shoulder, grinding it yourself lets you control the texture even more. Make sure the meat is cold for easier grinding.
Conclusion
Making homemade breakfast sausage is a rewarding experience that allows you to connect with your culinary roots while enjoying delicious food. This recipe is versatile and open for your unique touch. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice, this is a dish that can elevate your breakfast game. So, gather your ingredients, craft your breakfast sausage, and savor each bite. You’ll find that the delightful taste and aroma bring everyone to the table, creating memories over heartwarming meals. Happy cooking!
