Breakfast Sausage Recipe

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

Salt: Enhances the overall taste and helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the sausage.

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

Dried thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty taste that complements the other spices.

Paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and a hint of color to the sausage.

Maple syrup: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory spices.

When mixing the ground pork with the spices, ensure that you distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the meat. This can be achieved by using your hands to knead the mixture thoroughly. For a more uniform texture, consider chilling the mixture for about 30 minutes before forming the patties. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the patties easier to shape.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and still provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

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

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

• dried sage - Substitute with poultry seasoning: Poultry seasoning often contains sage along with other complementary herbs, making it a good substitute.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a robust flavor that can mimic the earthiness of thyme.

• paprika - Substitute with chili powder: Chili powder adds a similar color and a bit of heat, though it is slightly spicier.

• maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a similar sweetness and viscosity, making it a good alternative to maple syrup.

• Allow the breakfast sausage patties to cool completely after cooking. This prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.
• Place the cooled patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. This step is crucial for preventing the patties from sticking together.
• Freeze the baking sheet with the patties for about 1-2 hours, or until the patties are firm. This initial freezing step, known as flash freezing, helps maintain the shape and texture of the patties.
• Once the patties are firm, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• For optimal quality, consume the frozen patties within 2-3 months. While they can be stored longer, the flavor and texture may begin to degrade.
• To reheat, place the frozen patties in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Alternatively, you can reheat the patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the patties on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until fully heated.
• For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• When reheating refrigerated patties, use a skillet over medium heat or a microwave. If using a microwave, heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
• To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid reheating the patties multiple times. Reheat only the amount you plan to consume immediately.

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

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the sausage patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

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

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

• Steaming: Place the sausage patties in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the patties juicy.

• Sous Vide: Seal the sausage patties in a vacuum-sealed bag. Heat a water bath to 140°F (60°C) and submerge the bag. Let it heat for 30-45 minutes. This method ensures even heating without drying out the patties.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine all the ingredients together.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the sausage patties over medium heat.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the patties while cooking to ensure they are evenly cooked on both sides.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt, black pepper, dried sage, dried thyme, and paprika accurately.

• Tablespoon: Used to measure the maple syrup.

• Plate: Used to place the formed patties before cooking.

• Stove: The heat source for cooking the patties in the skillet.

• Paper towels: Used to drain any 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 cookie scoop: This helps form uniform patties quickly and ensures even cooking.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating the skillet while forming the patties to reduce waiting time.

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

Non-stick skillet: Use a non-stick skillet to minimize cleanup time.