Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Looking to add some sizzle and flavor to your mornings? Look no further than breakfast sausage. But, cooking breakfast sausage to perfection can be a challenge. “The Best Homemade Breakfast Sausage Recipes to Make”
Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast or a culinary novice, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about cooking this savory delight. From selecting the perfect sausage to exploring different cooking methods, let’s grab your frying pan and get to cooking some sausage!
Selecting the Perfect Breakfast Sausage
One of the keys to cooking the perfect breakfast sausage is selecting the right kind of sausage for your taste buds. Understanding the different types of breakfast sausage available will help you make an informed decision and ensure that your mornings start off with a delicious meal.
Understanding Different Types of Sausages
When it comes to breakfast sausage, there is no shortage of options to choose from. Each one offers its own unique flavors and characteristics, making it important to understand the different types available. By familiarizing yourself with the various varieties, you can make a decision on the perfect type of sausage for your recipe.
Traditional Breakfast Sausage or store-bought breakfast sausage:
This is the classic version that most people are familiar with. Made from a mixture of ground pork and seasonings, traditional breakfast sausage typically has a savory and slightly salty taste. It’s often used in dishes like sausage patties or crumbled and added to omelets or breakfast casseroles. Examples are Jimmy Dean sausage or Potter’s sausage.
Maple Sage Breakfast Sausage:
For those with a sweet tooth, maple breakfast sausage is a popular choice. This type of sausage is flavored with maple syrup or maple flavoring, giving it a hint of sweetness that pairs well with pancakes or waffles. The combination of the savory pork and the hint of maple creates a delightful balance of flavors.
Spicy Breakfast Sausage:
If you crave a little heat to kickstart your day, look no further than spicy breakfast sausage. This variety is seasoned with a blend of spices, such as red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper, to give it a fiery kick. Spicy breakfast sausage can be a great addition to breakfast sandwiches or as a topping for breakfast tacos.
Chicken Sausage or Turkey Sausage:
For those looking for a healthier option, chicken or turkey breakfast sausage is a fantastic choice. Made from lean poultry meat, these sausages are lower in fat and calories compared to traditional pork sausages. They still offer a delicious taste but with a lighter and more delicate flavor profile.
Vegan Breakfast Sausage (made from a leaner meat):
With the rise of plant-based diets, vegan breakfast sausage has become more widely available. These sausages are typically made from ingredients like tempeh, tofu, or seitan, and are seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to mimic the taste of traditional sausage. Vegan breakfast sausage is not only a great option for those following a plant-based lifestyle, but also for anyone looking to reduce their meat consumption.
Italian Sausage
Your local grocery store has a selection of all kinds of raw sausages.
You can also make your own sausage from a homemade breakfast sausage recipe using one of the following meats, basically any different ground meat: spicy sausage, pork sausage, ground turkey, ground beef, ground chicken, ground lamb or a pound of ground pork. Can be formed into a patty form or into sausage links. The following ingredients are a simple spice blend recipe of
- 2 Tbsp. brown sugar, packed (adds a sweet flavor)
- 5 tsp. dried sage or fresh sage
- 5 tsp. kosher salt
- 2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. dried thyme or fresh thyme
- 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/8 tsp. ground cloves
A secret ingredient that makes another great recipe is adding: sweet maple syrup or a smokehouse maple seasoning to give the homemade breakfast sausage patties a sweet flavor.
Different Cooking Methods
Now, it’s time to decide on the cooking method that suits your preference. Whether you prefer the sizzling heat of the stove top, the smokiness of the grill, or the convenience of the oven, the next section will guide you through mastering different cooking methods.
Each cooking method has its own unique benefits and flavors that it imparts to the sausages. If you’re looking for a quick and easy option, cooking sausages on the stove top is the way to go. Simply heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Place the sausages in the hot pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re browned and cooked through. Cooking time can vary. Once the sausage is cooked place a single layer on paper towels to absorb any extra grease.
On the other hand, if you want that distinct smoky flavor, grilling your sausages is the perfect choice. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re nicely charred and cooked through. This is the best way of cooking sausage for an easier clean-up.
If you prefer the convenience of the oven, you can also make oven-cooked sausages. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a sheet of parchment paper or aluminum foil on a baking sheet pan or shallow baking pan. Then, place the sausages in a single layer on the baking sheet. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through. The cook time can vary.
Remember, regardless of the cooking method you choose, it’s important to ensure that the sausages are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to guarantee they’re safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the sausage, especially the thicker sausages.
How do I store leftover homemade sausage patties?
Simply, place cooked leftover sausage in an airtight container, large bowl with plastic wrap or a freezer bag. Then store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Recipes and Serving Ideas
1. Sausage and Veggie Skewers: Thread cooked sausages, along with colorful bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and chunks of red onion, onto skewers. Grill them for a few minutes until the sausages are nicely charred and the veggies are tender. Serve these delicious skewers as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main course.
2. Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos: Take your morning routine up a notch by adding breakfast sausages to your favorite breakfast burrito recipe. Whisk some eggs, sauté them with cooked sausage slices, and wrap the mixture in a warm tortilla with shredded cheese, chopped veggies, and a dollop of salsa. It’s the perfect on-the-go breakfast.
3. Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers: Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Fill each pepper half with a mixture of cooked sausage, cooked rice, sautéed onions, and melted cheese. Bake them in the oven until the peppers are tender and the stuffing is golden and bubbling. This savory and satisfying dish makes for an impressive dinner option.
4. Sausage Pizza Sliders: Take your next game day gathering to new heights with these mouthwatering sausage pizza sliders. Split dinner rolls in half and top them with cooked breakfast sausage, marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Place the sliders on a baking sheet and broil them until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve these mini sandwiches for a crowd-pleasing party snack.
5. Sausage and Apple Hash: Dice cooked breakfast sausages and sauté them with cubes of potatoes, sliced apples, and a touch of butter. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet and savory hash that’s perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
7. Breakfast Sausage and Caramelized Onion Pizza
10. A quick breakfast of English muffins and sausage patty sandwiches
Remember, breakfast is not just the most important meal of the day, it’s the most enjoyable, too.
