Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and few breakfast staples are as beloved as the savory, flavorful breakfast sausage popularized by Jimmy Dean. While the store-bought version is convenient, making your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage at home has several benefits. Not only is it healthier and cost-effective, but it also allows you to customize the flavor to your preference. In this guide, we’ll share a step-by-step recipe to create a homemade version in just 20 minutes.
Table of Contents
Why Make Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage at Home?
1. Cost-Effective and Healthier Option
Store-bought breakfast sausages can be pricey, especially if you’re buying in bulk. Making them at home allows you to use fresh ingredients at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, you have complete control over what goes into the recipe, avoiding preservatives and excess sodium often found in pre-packaged options.
2. Customizable Flavor
One of the best things about homemade sausage is that you can tweak the recipe to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it spicy, sweet, or herbaceous, the seasoning can be adjusted to meet your preferences.
3. Freshness and Quality
By making sausage at home, you ensure that only high-quality, fresh ingredients are used. This results in a better-tasting, more nutritious breakfast option compared to many processed alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Homemade Breakfast Sausage
1. Ground Pork or Substitutes
The base of the sausage is ground pork, which provides the rich flavor and texture iconic to Jimmy Dean sausages. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, though the flavor and fat content will differ slightly.
2. Key Seasonings for Authentic Flavor
To replicate the signature Jimmy Dean flavor, you’ll need the following seasonings:
- Sage: The star ingredient for that classic breakfast sausage taste.
- Thyme: Adds a subtle herbaceous note.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- Onion Powder: Provides a mild sweetness and depth.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors.
- Paprika: Adds a slight smokiness and color.
3. Optional Add-Ins for Customization
- Brown Sugar: For a touch of sweetness.
- Cayenne Pepper: For a bit of heat.
- Fennel Seeds: For a slightly anise-like flavor.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: To make it spicier.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage at Home
1. Mixing the Ingredients
To begin, gather your ingredients and a large mixing bowl. Here’s how to combine them:
- Place 1 pound of ground pork into the bowl.
- Add 1 teaspoon of sage, 1/2 teaspoon of thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- If you’re adding optional seasonings, include them now. For example, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar for sweetness or 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Use clean hands to mix the ground pork and seasonings thoroughly, ensuring even distribution.
2. Shaping the Sausage Patties
Once the mixture is evenly combined:
- Divide it into 8 equal portions for standard-sized patties or adjust for smaller or larger patties.
- Shape each portion into a round patty about 1/2-inch thick. Flatten them slightly to ensure even cooking.
3. Cooking Instructions
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. You don’t need oil if using ground pork, as it will release its own fat during cooking.
- Place the patties in the skillet, ensuring they don’t overcrowd.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer.
4. Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage
- Avoid Overcooking: Overcooking can dry out the sausage. Monitor closely and remove from heat once done.
- Test the Flavor: Fry a small piece of the mixture before shaping all the patties to taste-test the seasoning.
- Maintain Moisture: If using leaner meat like turkey or chicken, consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture for moisture.
Serving Ideas and Storage Tips
1. Best Ways to Serve
- Classic Breakfast Platter: Pair with scrambled eggs, toast, and hash browns for a hearty breakfast.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Place a sausage patty on an English muffin with egg and cheese.
- Breakfast Burrito: Crumble the cooked sausage and wrap it in a tortilla with scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa.
2. Meal Prep Tips
Homemade sausage is excellent for meal prep:
- Shape and cook the patties ahead of time.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.
3. Freezing and Reheating Instructions
- Freezing: Place uncooked or cooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: Reheat cooked patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Breakfast Sausage
1. What Makes This Recipe Similar to Jimmy Dean Sausage?
The combination of sage, thyme, garlic powder, and other seasonings closely mimics the flavor profile of Jimmy Dean sausage. Fresh ground pork and the right seasoning balance are key.
2. Can I Use a Different Meat Instead of Pork?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. However, the flavor and texture will be slightly different due to the lower fat content.
3. How Long Can I Store Homemade Sausage?
Cooked sausage patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Uncooked patties should also be frozen if not used within 2 days.
4. What Are the Best Spices for Sausage Patties?
Sage, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper are essential. Additional spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and fennel seeds can enhance the flavor further.
Conclusion
Making Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage at home is a rewarding experience. Not only is it quick and easy, but it also allows you to enjoy a healthier, fresher version of this beloved breakfast classic. With customizable flavors and simple preparation, this homemade sausage recipe is perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches. Try it out today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
