Wholesome, homemade Breakfast Sausage Seasoning makes the most delicious sausage patties from scratch. Sweet notes of brown sugar and a simple blend of sage and other savory spices make this breakfast sausage spice blend over-the-top delicious.
The seasoning only takes three minutes to throw together, and sausage is on the table in 15 minutes or less. This breakfast protein adds a special touch to any morning with quickness and ease!
Serve with fried eggs and breakfast potatoes or a delicious breakfast sandwich layered between cheesy scrambled eggs and homemade biscuits.
Table of contents
Why This Recipe Works
This super easy breakfast recipe all comes down to your spice measurements and heat control. Because of the savory-sweet nature of this breakfast sausage seasoning, you don't want to cook over too high of heat. Stick to medium/medium-high heat for this recipe. The brown sugar in the spice blend will caramelize and burn if the pan is too hot.
You can choose between using dried or fresh spices for this recipe. We use dried spices for a quick and easy mix. But, going the extra mile with freshly chopped sage and thyme most definitely enhances the flavor! We've got instructions for both below, and neither disappoints. You can easily double or even triple the recipe and get cooking!
Be sure to check out our chicken seasoning for all your poultry dishes, too!
Breakfast Sausage Seasoning Ingredients
Ground Pork | Ground pork is the preferred protein in breakfast sausage because it pairs so well with sage. They're a dynamic duo at any breakfast.
Brown Sugar | Brown sugar balances out the savory flavors of the breakfast sausage seasoning to add a touch of sweetness. You can sub in 2 tablespoons of maple syrup if you'd prefer that flavor.
Spices | Sage is probably the most common and most important spice when it comes to making homemade breakfast sausage seasoning. It is what gives breakfast sausage that distinct flavor and unique taste. You can use either dried or fresh sage.
Other spices that enhance the flavor of homemade breakfast sausage are Kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried or fresh thyme. Check out our prime rib seasoning for an elevated base for your spice blend or meatloaf seasoning and pork chop seasoning to make and have on hand.
Oil | We use avocado oil or canola oil for this recipe because of their high-smoke point.
How to Cook Breakfast Sausage
Mix Seasoning | In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sage, and thyme. Set aside.
Add Ground Pork to Seasoning | Add the ground pork to a large bowl, followed by the spice mixture, sugar, and fresh herbs. Mix with your hands until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed.
Make the Patties | Divide the mixture into eight patties and form them into a disc. Use your thumb to create a divot in the center of each patty. Set aside.
Ready Your Pan | Place a large skillet over medium heat and allow to come to temperature. Add the oil and place the patties on the pan, leaving space in between each patty and cooking in batches as necessary.
Cook the Patties | Cook the patties on each side for about 5 minutes until browned and crispy. The patties are done once the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Allow to cool slightly, serve, and enjoy!
What to Serve with Breakfast Sausage
For a hearty Southern breakfast, serve with biscuits, cheese grits, and eggs.
Baked cinnamon apples are a great accompaniment to sausage, especially in the fall and winter months.
For a sweet and savory combo, serve alongside homemade pancakes or waffles.
How to Store Breakfast Sausage
Seasoning Storage | Breakfast sausage seasoning made with dried spices can be stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Seasoning made with fresh herbs should be stored in the refrigerator and should keep for up to 5 days.
Cooked Breakfast Sausage | Store in an airtight container in fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer Instructions | Allow cooked sausage to cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe airtight container or freezer zip bag for up to 3 months. Allow the sausage to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
5 More Breakfast Sausage Recipes to Try
Breakfast Sausage Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespooon minced fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon minced fresh sage)
- 2 pounds ground pork
- 1-2 tablespoons avocado or canola oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sage, and thyme. Set aside.
- Add the ground pork to a large bowl, followed by the spice mixture, sugar, and fresh herbs. Mix with your hands until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed.
- Divide the mixture into eight patties, and form them into a disc. Use your thumb to create a divot in the center of each patty. Set aside.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and allow to come to temperature. Add the oil and place the patties on the pan, leaving space in between each patty and cooking in batches as necessary.
- Cook the patties on each side for about 5 minutes until browned and crispy. The patties are done once the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Allow to cool slightly, serve, and enjoy!
Vicki says
I always like to add a touch of pepper and fennel with my sage for my breakfast sausage.
Lauren says
We loved this recipe!! We make almost weekly
Beth says
Can you use ground chicken, beef or turkey? We do not eat pork but would love to try this recipe.
Kelly Anthony says
Hi Beth!
Yes, you can absolutely use ground chicken, beef, or turkey for this recipe! Just keep in mind that chicken and turkey are milder in flavor than pork or beef, so I’d suggest starting with a lighter hand on the seasoning and adjusting to taste.
A quick way to test the seasoning: mix up your meat and spices, then pinch off a small piece and cook it in a skillet until fully done. Taste that mini patty and adjust the seasoning as needed before shaping the rest. That way, you can fine-tune the flavor without guessing!