5 Easy Steps to Make the Best Beef Breakfast Sausage at Home

When you wake up to the smell of freshly cooked beef breakfast sausage, it’s more than just a meal — it’s an experience. The savory scent of sizzling sausage combined with the crispy edges and juicy interior makes for the perfect start to your day.

But what if you could make this delectable breakfast treat from scratch? With a few simple ingredients and just five easy steps, you can create the best beef breakfast sausage right at home, without any preservatives or mystery additives.

If you’re tired of the store-bought sausage that often feels more like cardboard than a flavorful morning staple, it’s time to take matters into your own hands.

Not only will homemade beef breakfast sausage save you money, but it will also allow you to customize the flavors to your exact taste. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of pride knowing that you crafted something so delicious yourself.

Let’s dive into how you can make the best beef breakfast sausage ever.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

Before you begin, it’s important to ensure you have everything you need to create the perfect beef breakfast sausage. This is the first step toward building flavor, so let’s make sure you’re equipped for success. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients

For this recipe, we’re going for simplicity. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to make your own beef breakfast sausage:

Ground Beef: The star of the show. You’ll want to use 80/20 ground beef, as the fat content plays a crucial role in ensuring the sausage stays juicy and flavorful. You can opt for leaner beef if you prefer, but a little fat goes a long way in flavor.

Spices and Herbs: The seasoning blend here is simple but packs a punch. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, while sage and garlic powder give that classic sausage taste. The optional brown sugar can provide a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Mixing bowl: To combine all your ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate seasoning.
• Food processor (optional): If you prefer a finer texture, a food processor can help.
• Frying pan or skillet: For cooking the sausages to perfection.
• Meat thermometer: To check that the sausages are cooked through.

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, you’re all set to begin.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings with Ground Beef

Now, it’s time to add flavor to the beef! The key to great sausage is in the seasoning, and this is where the magic happens. Here’s how you can mix the perfect blend:

1. Place the Ground Beef in a Bowl: Get a large mixing bowl, and add your 1 lb of ground beef. It’s important to use fresh, high-quality beef, as this will significantly affect the flavor of your sausage.
2. Season the Beef: Evenly sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and sage over the beef. If you want a sweeter touch, now is the time to add the brown sugar. If you’re a fan of a little heat, add the red pepper flakes.
3. Mix Thoroughly: Using your hands (or a spoon), mix the ingredients together. Make sure to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the meat. Don’t overwork the beef — just enough to ensure everything is well combined. Over-mixing can make the sausage tough.
4. Texture Check: If you prefer a finer texture, you can pulse the meat in a food processor for a few seconds. However, it’s not necessary if you prefer a more rustic texture.

Once everything is well mixed, you’ll be ready to form your sausages.

Step 3: Shape the Sausage Patties or Links

Next, you’ll shape the seasoned beef into patties or links. The beauty of making your own sausage is the flexibility to choose the shape and size. Here’s how to do it:

Making Patties:

1. Divide the Mixture: Split the beef mixture into equal portions. Each portion should be about ¼ cup of the mixture, but you can adjust depending on how large you want your sausages to be.
2. Form Patties: Roll each portion into a ball and then gently flatten it into a patty shape. Aim for patties that are about 3 inches in diameter.
3. Chill the Patties: For the best flavor and texture, place the formed patties on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to cook.

Making Links:

1. Shape into Cylinders: If you prefer sausage links, take each portion and roll it into a small cylinder. Make sure the links are even in size.
2. Tie with Twine (optional): If you want to make traditional links, you can tie them off with butcher’s twine. However, this step isn’t necessary if you’re cooking the sausages right away.

After shaping your sausages, it’s time to cook them up!

Step 4: Cook the Sausage to Perfection

Cooking your homemade beef breakfast sausage is where the magic truly happens. Whether you prefer pan-fried sausages with crispy edges or oven-baked sausages that are tender all the way through, the goal is the same: cook them until they reach a safe and delicious temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Pan-Frying Method (Recommended):

1. Heat Your Pan: Place a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil or butter to prevent sticking, but remember, the beef will release its own fat as it cooks.
2. Cook the Patties: Place the sausage patties in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through.
3. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This step is essential to ensure that your sausages are cooked safely and fully.
4. Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices and keeps them tender.

Oven-Baking Method:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the Sausages: Place the sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake the Sausages: Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Again, check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 160°F (71°C).
4. Rest Before Serving: Allow the sausages to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.

Step 5: Serve and Store Your Homemade Beef Sausage

After your beef breakfast sausages are cooked to perfection, it’s time to enjoy them! There are countless ways to serve homemade sausage, depending on your preferences.

Serving Ideas:

• Pair your sausages with scrambled eggs and toast for a classic breakfast.
• Serve them with pancakes or waffles for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Use them in breakfast burritos or sandwiches for a delicious on-the-go option.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover sausages in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: If you have extra sausages, wrap them in wax paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, simply warm the sausages in a skillet over low heat or microwave for 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it possible to use a different type of meat instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can swap beef with turkey, chicken, or pork in this recipe. Each type of meat offers a unique flavor, so don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment.

2. How do I make my beef breakfast sausage spicy?

To add some heat to your sausages, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper. You can customize it to match your desired spice level.

3. Can I cook these sausages in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

4. Why is my Beef Breakfast Sausage dry?

Dry Beef Breakfast Sausage is often a result of using lean meat like 90/10 ground beef. For juicier Beef Breakfast Sausage, always opt for 80/20 ground beef.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Fruits of Your Labor

Making homemade beef breakfast sausage is not only rewarding, but it also ensures that you’re enjoying a flavorful, preservative-free breakfast every time. With just five simple steps, you can create the best beef breakfast sausage right in your own kitchen. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, in patties or links, homemade sausage is a delicious way to start your day. Try this recipe today, and experience the satisfaction of creating something truly delicious from scratch.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make the best beef breakfast sausage you’ve ever tasted — your taste buds will thank you!