Beef Breakfast Sausage
Start your day right with this rich and flavorful Beef Breakfast Sausage recipe. Easy to make, protein-packed, and perfect for any hearty morning meal.
Ingredients
Ground Beef (1 pound)
- Preferably around 80–85% lean for moisture. Grass fed options bring out a deeper richer flavor.
Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Essential for enhancing the savory taste of the meat.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
- Adds a subtle peppery bite. Increase if you like extra spice.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
- Layers in a mellow garlic note. You can replace or supplement with onion powder.
Onion Powder (½ teaspoon, optional)
- Boosts overall aroma without actual onion bits in your sausage.
Dried Sage (1 teaspoon)
- Key to that classic breakfast sausage taste. Dried thyme can be used in tandem or swapped in for variety.
Dried Thyme (½ teaspoon)
- Complements sage and adds a subtle herb profile.
Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional)
- For those who enjoy a slight heat these flakes deliver a mild kick. Increase or omit depending on preference.
Brown Sugar (1 teaspoon, optional)
- Helps balance out the savory flavors. If you like a hint of sweetness in your sausage try it.
Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon, if pan-frying)
- Helps prevent sticking in a nonstick or cast iron skillet. You can also use a nonstick spray if your pan is truly nonstick.
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Seasonings
- In a large mixing bowl, place ground beef.
- Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (if using), dried sage, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. If you want a sweet-savory taste, stir in 1 teaspoon of brown sugar.
Step 2: Mix Thoroughly
- Use clean hands to gently mix the meat and spices. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can result in tougher texture.
- Ensure spices are evenly distributed throughout the beef.
Step 3: Shape the Patties
- Pinch off a small piece of the sausage mixture and cook it quickly in a small skillet or microwave to check flavor. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Form the seasoned meat into patties—about 2–3 inches wide and ½-inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly without drying out.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. If needed, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the pan is hot, place the patties in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef, ensuring safety and doneness.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
- Move the cooked patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat.
- Enjoy immediately, or keep them warm in an oven set to low heat while you finish a bigger batch.