Why You’ll Love This Homemade Turkey Sausage Recipe
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional sausage, you’re going to love this homemade turkey sausage recipe.
It’s leaner but still packed with flavor, making it a fantastic option for breakfast or any meal. I enjoy customizing the spices to suit my taste, and you can easily make it your own.
Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. I often prepare a batch and freeze some for later, ensuring I always have a healthy option on hand.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back!
Ingredients of Homemade Turkey Sausage
When it comes to whipping up a delicious breakfast or a hearty brunch, this homemade turkey sausage recipe is a game changer. Not only is it healthier than traditional sausage, but it also offers a burst of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
You might be wondering, “What do I need to make this delightful treat?” Well, let me break it down for you in a simple list of ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients for Homemade Turkey Sausage
- 1 teaspoon whole fennel seed
- 1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 lb 93% lean ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided use
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients for a moment. You may be thinking, “Do I really need whole fennel seed?” Trust me, yes. It brings a sweet, aromatic touch that really elevates the flavor profile, and who doesn’t love that?
If you don’t have all the spices on hand, no worries. You can play around with what you do have. Maybe you prefer a little more garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Just remember, the more you customize, the more you’ll make it your own.
And if you find yourself wondering if you can skip the olive oil, I wouldn’t recommend it. It helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior that makes these patties so irresistible.
Now, are you ready to get cooking?
How to Make Homemade Turkey Sausage
Alright, let’s plunge into the fun part—making your very own homemade turkey sausage. First things first, grab a mixing bowl and gather your ingredients. You’ll need 1 teaspoon of whole fennel seeds, 1 teaspoon of dried rubbed sage, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, 3/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and just a pinch (1/8 teaspoon) of ground allspice.
It might seem like a lot, but trust me, this blend packs a punch that will have your taste buds singing.
In a small bowl, whisk together all those delightful spices. Once they’re all mixed, head over to a medium bowl where you’ll place 1 pound of 93% lean ground turkey. Sprinkle that beautiful seasoning blend right over the turkey.
Now, here’s where the magic happens—using your clean hands (or two forks, if you prefer), gently work the seasoning into the meat. Don’t overdo it; you want the flavors to mingle but not turn into a mushy mess.
Once that’s done, form the turkey mixture into 8 patties, each about 3 inches wide. At this stage, if you want to let those flavors meld a bit longer, pop the patties in the fridge, or if you’re feeling adventurous, freeze them for future breakfasts.
Now, let’s get cooking! Heat half of 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers like it’s been hitting the gym.
Carefully add half of your turkey patties to the skillet, cooking them for about 3 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen—pure bliss.
Once they’re done, transfer them to a plate and repeat the process with the remaining oil and patties.
And there you have it, homemade turkey sausage, ready to elevate your breakfast game. Who knew being a breakfast hero could be this easy?
Homemade Turkey Sausage Substitutions & Variations
While preparing homemade turkey sausage, I love to explore different substitutions and variations to keep things interesting.
For instance, I sometimes swap out ground turkey for chicken or even lean pork to change the flavor profile. If I’m short on spices, I’ll use Italian seasoning instead of the specific herbs. Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of mustard can give it a nice tang.
I also enjoy incorporating finely chopped vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, for added texture and moisture. Each variation keeps my turkey sausage exciting and delicious!
What to Serve with Homemade Turkey Sausage
Though homemade turkey sausage is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal to another level.
I love serving mine with a side of sautéed spinach and garlic for a fresh, vibrant touch. Roasted sweet potatoes also complement the savory flavors perfectly.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a nice contrast.
For breakfast, consider some fluffy scrambled eggs or whole grain toast.
These sides not only enhance the dish but also create a balanced, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your homemade turkey sausage turns out perfectly, I recommend adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
You might want to experiment with adding crushed red pepper for a kick or substituting herbs like rosemary or oregano. If you prefer less salt, feel free to reduce it.
Remember that the flavors meld together as they cook, so let the patties rest before cooking.
For meal prep, these sausages freeze well; just layer parchment paper between patties.
Finally, always check for doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F guarantees they’re safe to eat.
Enjoy your delicious creations!