Here’s a delicious, homemade version of Classic American Breakfast Sausages — savory, slightly sweet, and seasoned with herbs and spices that give them their signature flavor. Great for breakfast platters, brunch, or breakfast sandwiches!
🍳 Classic American Breakfast Sausages
🍽️ Yield: ~12 small patties
⏱️ Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 10–15 min
🧂 Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork (or a mix of pork + turkey for leaner sausage)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1½ tsp dried sage
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
- ½ tsp smoked or sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar or maple syrup (adds subtle sweetness)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, traditional flavor)
👩🍳 Instructions:
- Mix the Seasonings
- In a large bowl, combine all spices and sugar/syrup.
- Add the Meat
- Add the ground pork and mix thoroughly with your hands until evenly seasoned, but don’t overwork it.
- Shape into Patties
- Form into 2–3 inch round patties, about ½ inch thick. You can also shape into mini sausages (links) if you prefer.
- Cook
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil if your meat is lean.
- Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked through (internal temp: 160°F / 71°C).
- Serve
- Serve hot with eggs, pancakes, toast, or in a breakfast sandwich.
🔄 Variations:
- Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Maple Sausage: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup and reduce salt slightly.
- Herbed: Add fresh chopped parsley or rosemary.
🧊 Make-Ahead Tips:
- Refrigerate: Store raw patties up to 2 days.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked or cooked patties for up to 2 months. Place parchment between layers.
- Meal prep: Make a double batch and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Want a vegetarian version or chicken-based option?