Sausage Patties

If you’re craving a hearty breakfast these sausage patties are a quick and easy way to get a little extra protein. Plus, they taste delicious as a side to everything from fried eggs and savory home fries to sweeter breakfast spreads like as golden pancakes or French toast. In short, they are versatile, easy to make and loaded with juicy flavors. These are made with brown sugar for just a hint of sweetness; if you prefer a more savory sausage patty, feel free to leave this out. Otherwise, throw this recipe together in just about 20 minutes for an easy, flavorful way to get some extra protein in.

Ingredients for Sausage Patties

• Ground pork: The ground pork is the main ingredient to these patties. Use fresh or previously frozen ground pork.
• Ground sage: This savory herb adds a slightly sweet, earthy aroma and warmth to the ground pork.
• Salt: This all-important mineral helps to tenderize and enhance the flavors and retain moisture in the meat.
• Pepper: Freshly ground pepper will add a teeny boost in heat.
• Cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper definitely adds spice but is balanced by the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• Brown sugar: Brown sugar adds depth to these sausage patties. If you’d prefer a more savory patty, opt out of the sugar.

Directions

Step 1: Combine ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients; mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into eight 4-inch patties.

Step 2: Cookie patties

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook patties until a thermometer reads 160°F, about three to four minutes per side. Remove the cooked patties to a paper towel to drain.

Recipe Variations

• Sub the meat: If you don’t like the flavor of ground pork, mix it with ground chicken, turkey or even beef.
• Make it maple: Instead of using brown sugar, consider using pure maple syrup for a decidedly rich and sweet flavor that’s perfect when served with fluffy, golden pancakes.
• Get a little green: Finely dice spinach and add it to the pork mixture in the bowl. You won’t necessarily taste this addition but it  adds a boost in nutrients (this is a great option when serving to picky eaters who need more greens!).
• Add eggs and veggies: Adding a few raw eggs, onions, garlic,and green peppers to the bowl will not only boost the protein and nutritional value but will take these sweet and simple sausage patties and turn them into a heartier protein-packed meal that’s ideal for food prepping.

How to Store Sausage Patties

Store any leftovers in an airtight food storage container or wrapped tightly in aluminum foil. Store in the fridge for up to four days.

Can you freeze sausage patties?

Yes, you can freeze sausage patties. Either make them ahead and freeze in an airtight freezer-safe bag once cooled or make individual patties and freeze them before cooking them.

Sausage Patties Tips

How do I know if I’ve cooked sausage patties enough?

It can be tricky to tell if you’ve cooked pork long enough. If you cook it too long, it’ll dry out. Aside from checking the internal temp, you can cut a patty down the middle. If the meat is firm, it’s done. If it’s pink and runny it needs just a bit more time. Another trick? Press the patty gently. If the juices run clear the sausage is most likely done cooking.

How do I keep sausage patties from falling apart?

Fun fact: sausage patties can fall apart if the raw mixture becomes too warm prior to cooking because fat and water separates. To keep this from happening, refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes before cooking. This will help firm the formed sausage patties and keep everything together while cooking.

What should I serve with these sausage patties?

As we said above, these are an excellent option for serving with traditional breakfast foods. But they also work wonderfully alongside dinner meals such as a hearty soup, oven-roasted carrots, and a nutrient-packed bowl of kale salad.