Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Ground pork: The base of the sausage, providing the main protein and fat content.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the sausage.

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

Dried sage: Contributes a slightly peppery and earthy flavor.

Dried thyme: Adds a subtle, minty flavor that complements the other herbs.

Dried rosemary: Provides a pine-like, aromatic flavor.

Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of heat and spice to the sausage.

Maple syrup: Introduces a hint of sweetness that balances the savory spices.

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 fold and press the mixture together. Overmixing can result in a dense texture, so aim for a light and even incorporation. Additionally, letting the mixture rest for about 30 minutes before forming into patties allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of your breakfast sausage.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and has a similar texture, making it a good alternative for those looking to reduce fat content.

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

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor profile but is slightly milder, making it a good alternative.

• dried sage - Substitute with poultry seasoning: Poultry seasoning often contains sage along with other complementary herbs, providing a similar flavor profile.

• dried thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a slightly different but still complementary flavor, making it a suitable substitute.

• dried rosemary - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the other herbs in the recipe.

• crushed red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level and can be used in smaller quantities to achieve the desired spiciness.

• maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey has a similar sweetness and viscosity, making it a good alternative for adding a touch of sweetness to the sausage.

• Allow the breakfast sausage patties to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess and spoilage.
• Place the cooled patties in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they stay fresh and prevents them from sticking together.
• Store the wrapped patties in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
• To freeze, lay the wrapped patties on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer. Once they are fully frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents the patties from sticking together and allows you to take out only what you need.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of their freshness. Frozen breakfast sausage patties can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to use, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker option, use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat the thawed patties in a skillet over medium heat until they are warmed through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
• For added flavor, consider reheating the patties with a splash of maple syrup or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like sage or thyme. This will enhance the original taste and make them even more delicious.

• Stovetop Method: Place a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan. Once heated, add the leftover breakfast sausage patties. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and have a slight crisp on the outside.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the patties with a piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are thoroughly heated. For an extra touch, you can brush them with a bit of maple syrup before reheating.

• Microwave Method: Place the sausage patties on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are heating evenly. Be cautious not to overcook, as this can make them tough.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the sausage patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are hot and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Steaming Method: Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a steamer basket over the pot, ensuring the water does not touch the basket. Arrange the sausage patties in the basket, cover, and steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the patties tender.

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

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the sausage patties evenly.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the patties in the skillet to ensure they cook on both sides.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt, pepper, sage, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes accurately.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the maple syrup accurately.

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

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

• Fork: Used to mix the ingredients together in the mixing bowl.

• Knife: Used to chop any herbs if you prefer fresh over dried.

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

Use a cookie scoop: This helps to quickly portion out equal-sized patties.

Preheat the skillet: Start heating your skillet while forming the patties to save cooking time.

Batch cook: Make a larger batch and freeze the extra patties for future quick breakfasts.

Use parchment paper: Place patties on parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.