Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the savory and comforting flavors of the South with our Homemade Southern Breakfast Sausage recipe. Bursting with a harmonious blend of spices and seasonings, this sausage is the perfect accompaniment to your morning meal. Whether served alongside fluffy scrambled eggs, golden pancakes, or crispy hash browns, this homemade sausage will elevate your breakfast to new heights. Join us as we explore the ingredients, techniques, and variations that make this Southern staple a beloved favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground pork
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried rubbed sage
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel seed
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, kosher salt, black pepper, dried rubbed sage, maple syrup, ground fennel seed, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Mix Thoroughly: Using clean hands or a spoon, mix the ingredients together until well combined and evenly distributed throughout the ground pork.
- Shape into Patties: Divide the sausage mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties of your desired size and thickness. You can use your hands or a burger press to shape the patties.
- Cook: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the sausage patties, cooking them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, transfer the sausage patties to a serving platter and serve hot alongside your favorite breakfast dishes.
Cook Notes:
- Be sure to use ground pork with a higher fat content (around 20-30%) to ensure juicy and flavorful sausage patties.
- If you prefer a milder sausage, you can omit the red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste preference for sweetness.
Variations:
- Spicy Southern Sausage: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or marjoram for a unique flavor profile.
- Apple Maple Sausage: Mix in finely diced apples and extra maple syrup for a sweet and fruity variation.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the maple syrup with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Omit the onion powder and garlic powder to reduce the carbohydrate content.
- Low-Carb Option: Use leaner ground pork or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat option. Adjust the seasonings to your taste preference and omit the maple syrup entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I freeze the uncooked sausage patties? A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked sausage patties for up to 3 months. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Q: Can I use this sausage in other recipes? A: Absolutely! This homemade Southern breakfast sausage is versatile and can be used in various dishes such as breakfast casseroles, stuffed peppers, or pasta dishes.
Q: Can I make smaller sausage links instead of patties? A: Yes, you can shape the sausage mixture into smaller links instead of patties if desired. Simply form the mixture into sausage-shaped logs and cook them as you would the patties.
Embrace the flavors of the South with our Homemade Southern Breakfast Sausage recipe, a delightful addition to any morning spread. With its perfect balance of savory and sweet notes, this sausage is sure to become a breakfast favorite. Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into your favorite breakfast dishes, this homemade sausage will transport you to the heart of the South with every bite.
So, fire up the skillet and treat yourself to the comforting taste of homemade Southern breakfast sausage. With just a few simple ingredients and a touch of Southern charm, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the South right in your own kitchen!
