Breakfast Sausage Patties
Juicy, savory, and perfectly spiced homemade sausage patties that beat the store-bought kind any day. They're quick to mix up and pan-fry to a beautiful golden brown, making them the star of any breakfast spread.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Combine the Sausage Mixture
- b.In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, salt, black pepper, dried sage, dried thyme, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- c.Using clean hands, gently mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough patties, so mix only until the spices are evenly distributed.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Form the Patties
- b.Divide the pork mixture into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces or 55g each). A kitchen scale can help ensure they are uniform.
- c.Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a patty about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2-inch thick.
- d.Gently press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty with your thumb. This prevents them from puffing up in the middle and helps them cook more evenly.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Pan-Fry the Patties
- b.Heat the vegetable oil in a large cast-iron or non-stick skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
- c.Once the skillet 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 on the first side, until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Flip the patties and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side, or until cooked through.
- e.The sausage is done when it's no longer pink in the center and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 160°F (71°C).
- 4
Step 4
- a.Drain and Serve
- b.Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
- c.Let them rest for a minute before serving. Serve hot with your favorite breakfast accompaniments like eggs, toast, or pancakes.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the juiciest patties, use ground pork with a higher fat content (around 20-25%). Lean pork can result in dry sausages.
- 2Don't overmix the meat! Mix just until the spices are evenly distributed to keep the patties tender.
- 3For the best flavor, cover the sausage mixture and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) before forming the patties. This allows the spices to meld with the meat.
- 4To test the seasoning before cooking the whole batch, fry a small piece of the mixture, taste it, and adjust the spices if needed.
- 5These patties are freezer-friendly. Form the patties, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- 6Make sure your skillet is properly heated before adding the patties to get a nice, brown crust.
Adapt it for your goals.
Maple Sausage
For a classic sweet and savory flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup to the pork mixture along with the other spices.
Apple Sage SausageApple Sage Sausage
Add 1/4 cup of finely grated Granny Smith apple to the mixture. The apple adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the sage.
Herb Forward SausageHerb-Forward Sausage
Increase the sage and thyme slightly and add 1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary for a more aromatic, herbaceous flavor.
Turkey or Chicken SausageTurkey or Chicken Sausage
Substitute ground pork with ground turkey or chicken. Since these are leaner, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or melted butter to the mixture to keep the patties moist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
Pork is a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function, making these patties a satisfying start to your day.
Rich in B Vitamins
These sausage patties are a good source of B vitamins like B12 and niacin, which are crucial for converting food into energy and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Control Over Ingredients
Making sausage at home allows you to control the amount of salt, fat, and spices. You can avoid the preservatives and fillers often found in commercial products, leading to a fresher, more wholesome meal.
Frequently asked questions
A serving of two homemade breakfast sausage patties contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the fat content of the ground pork used.