Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Ground pork: The base of the sausage, providing a rich and savory flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the sausage.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

Dried sage: A key herb that gives the sausage its distinctive taste.

Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor.

Crushed red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle kick of heat.

Maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.

When mixing the ground pork with the spices, ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat. This can be achieved by using your hands to gently knead the mixture. Overmixing can result in a tough texture, so aim for a thorough but gentle blend.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and absorbs flavors well, making it a suitable substitute for ground pork in breakfast sausage.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste of the sausage.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor profile but can still provide the necessary heat and spice.

• dried sage - Substitute with poultry seasoning: Poultry seasoning often contains sage along with other herbs, making it a good alternative for a similar flavor.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a robust flavor that can complement the other spices in the sausage.

• crushed red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can provide a similar level of heat and spice to the sausage.

• maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a similar sweetness and moisture to the sausage, though it will have a slightly different flavor profile.

• Allow the breakfast sausage patties to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy patties.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent freezer burn.
• For added protection, you can place the wrapped patties in a freezer bag. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag.
• Label the container or bag with the date so you can keep track of how long they've been stored. Properly stored, the patties can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• When ready to use, thaw frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures they defrost evenly and safely.
• Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat until they are warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quick option, but be sure to cover them with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel to retain moisture.
• If you prefer, you can also reheat the patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the patties on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until fully warmed.
• For a quick breakfast option, consider pre-cooking the patties and then freezing them. This way, you can simply reheat them directly from the freezer, saving you time on busy mornings.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover breakfast sausage patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Place the sausage patties in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through.

• Microwave Method: Place the sausage patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sausage patties in a single layer in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Steaming Method: Fill a steamer basket with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the sausage patties in the basket, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the patties juicy.

• Large bowl: Used to combine and mix all the ingredients thoroughly.

• Skillet: Essential for cooking the sausage patties over medium heat.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties to ensure even cooking on both sides.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the salt, black pepper, dried sage, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes.

• Tablespoon: Used to measure the maple syrup.

• Mixing spoon: Useful for mixing the ground pork and seasonings together.

• Plate: To place the formed patties before cooking.

• Tongs: Helpful for handling the hot patties in the skillet.

• Paper towels: Used to drain excess oil from the cooked patties.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix all spices the night before to save time in the morning.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the ground pork and spices using a food processor for even distribution.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch of sausage patties and freeze them. Reheat as needed for a quick breakfast.

Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before cooking to reduce overall cooking time.

Uniform shape: Use a cookie cutter or measuring cup to form evenly-sized patties for consistent cooking.