Turkey Sausages
Juicy, savory homemade turkey sausage patties seasoned with classic herbs like sage and thyme. A healthier, leaner alternative to pork sausage, perfect for a hearty breakfast and ready in under 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
Mix the sausage ingredients
- In a medium bowl, add the ground turkey.
- Sprinkle the dried sage, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes over the turkey.
- Gently mix with your hands until the seasonings are just combined with the meat. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sausages tough.
Form the patties
- Divide the turkey mixture into 8 equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten into a patty about 1/2-inch thick and 3 inches wide.
Cook the sausage patties
- Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, until nicely browned.
- Flip the patties and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Serve
- Remove the cooked sausages from the skillet and place them on a plate.
- Serve immediately with your favorite breakfast dishes.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the juiciest sausages, avoid overmixing the ground turkey mixture.
- 2To prevent the patties from puffing up in the middle, press a small dimple in the center of each patty before cooking.
- 3You can cook a tiny piece of the sausage mixture first to taste and adjust seasonings before forming all the patties.
- 4These patties can be made ahead. Store uncooked patties between layers of parchment paper in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- 5If cooking from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before pan-frying as directed.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
For a spicier sausage, increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon or add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor that's perfect for kids.
healthyHealthy
Use 99% lean ground turkey for a lower-fat option, though the patties may be slightly drier. Ensure you use a good non-stick pan to minimize added oil.
quickQuick
Double the batch and freeze the extra patties. They are perfect for a quick protein-packed breakfast on busy mornings.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Ground turkey is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Lower in Saturated Fat
Compared to traditional pork sausage, turkey sausage is significantly lower in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthier choice.
Rich in B Vitamins
Turkey is a good source of B vitamins, particularly niacin (B3) and B6, which help convert food into energy and support brain function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, turkey sausage is generally considered a healthy option. It's a great source of lean protein and is typically lower in calories and saturated fat than pork sausage.