Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe
When it comes to breakfast, nothing beats the delicious and savory taste of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage. From its flavorful blend of spices to its juicy and tender texture, this breakfast staple is sure to satisfy your taste buds. But did you know that you can make your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage right at home? With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy the same great taste in the comfort of your own kitchen. Read on to learn how to make your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe.
Overview
The Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe is a classic blend of ground pork, herbs, and spices that creates a flavorful and versatile sausage. Whether you’re making breakfast sandwiches, adding it to omelets, or just enjoying it on its own, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
To make the perfect batch of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork (you can also use ground turkey for a healthier alternative)
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Note: You can adjust the spices according to your taste preference. You can also add a splash of maple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients together. Using your hands, mix the spices and ground pork until well combined.
- Divide the sausage mixture into 8 equal portions and form them into patties. You can also make smaller or larger patties depending on your preference.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage patties. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the sausage patties from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage!
Pro Tips
Here are some pro tips to take your Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage to the next level:
- For the best results, use freshly ground pork and let it rest in the refrigerator for a few hours before making the sausage patties.
- You can also make a large batch and freeze the patties for later use. Just separate each patty with wax paper and place them in a ziplock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Experiment with different spices to find your perfect blend. You can also add some chopped onion and garlic for added flavor.
Safety Precautions
When handling raw pork, it’s important to practice food safety measures to prevent any foodborne illnesses. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind when making Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat.
- Clean all utensils and surfaces that come in contact with raw meat.
- Cook the sausage patties until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Refrigerate any leftovers and consume within 3-4 days.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
In case you need a visual guide, here is a step-by-step preparation guide for making your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground pork, 1 tablespoon of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried sage, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon of dried marjoram, ¼ teaspoon of dried thyme, ¼ teaspoon of dried rosemary, and ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg.
- Mix all the ingredients together using your hands until well combined.
- Divide the sausage mixture into 8 equal portions and form them into patties.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage patties.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the sausage patties from the skillet and let them rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy your homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage!
Expert Tips for Premium Results
To elevate your Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage to the next level, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- For a healthier alternative, use ground turkey instead of ground pork.
- You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a tangy and savory flavor.
- For a more rustic texture, mix in some diced bacon into the sausage mixture.
- Add in some diced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- If you prefer a spicier sausage, you can add more red pepper flakes or some cayenne pepper to the mixture.
FAQs
1. Can I make the sausage patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sausage patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
2. Can I use ground beef instead of ground pork?
While the original Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe calls for ground pork, you can substitute it with ground beef or ground turkey for a different flavor and texture.
3. Can I make this recipe without the sugar?
Yes, you can omit the sugar or use a sugar substitute if preferred. However, the sugar adds a hint of sweetness and helps caramelize the patties for a crispy exterior.
4. How do I store the leftovers?
Store any leftover sausage patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
5. Can I use this recipe for making sausage links?
This recipe is specifically for making sausage patties, but you can also stuff the mixture into sausage casings to make links.