The Ultimate Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe: A Flavorful Homemade Delight

Breakfast just got better with our homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe. If you love this iconic sausage’s rich, savory flavors, you’ll be thrilled that making it from scratch is easier than you think. With simple ingredients and a perfect balance of seasonings, this recipe will bring the best flavors to your breakfast table.

What is Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage?

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage is a classic American favorite, known for its juicy texture and bold seasoning. It was created by country singer Jimmy Dean in 1969 and quickly became a household staple. This flavour-packed pork sausage is commonly used in breakfast dishes like biscuits, gravy, burritos, and casseroles.

Our homemade version captures all the deliciousness of store-bought Jimmy Dean sausage but with the bonus of using fresh ingredients and no preservatives.

Ingredients for Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork (use high-quality pork for the best taste)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1 tsp sage (gives the sausage its signature flavor)
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (adds a hint of sweetness)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (enhances the depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp water (to keep the sausage moist)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

Combine salt, black pepper, cayenne, sage, thyme, red pepper flakes, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Stir well to ensure an even mix.

Step 2: Mix the Pork and Seasoning

Add the ground pork to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the pork and use your hands to mix thoroughly. Add one tablespoon of water to help distribute the seasoning evenly and keep the sausage moist.

Step 3: Shape the Sausage Patties

Divide the sausage mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties. Each patty should be about ½ inch thick to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Place the sausage patties in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Transfer the cooked sausage patties to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve immediately with eggs, toast, or pancakes for a delicious homemade breakfast.

Cooking Tips for the Best Homemade Jimmy Dean Sausage

• Use fresh ground pork: The quality of the meat will directly impact the flavor of the sausage.
• Adjust the seasoning: If you prefer a milder sausage, reduce the red pepper flakes or cayenne.
• Let the sausage sit: For deeper flavor, let the seasoned pork mixture sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.
• Make ahead and freeze: These sausage patties freeze well! Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information for Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

Per serving (1 sausage patty):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Sugar: 1g

Serving Suggestions

This homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage pairs wonderfully with:

• Scrambled eggs and toast
• Biscuits and gravy
• Breakfast sandwiches
• Pancakes and maple syrup
• Breakfast burritos with eggs and cheese

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of pork? Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that still absorbs the seasonings well.

Q2: How do I store homemade breakfast sausage? Uncooked sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q3: Can I make this sausage without sugar? Yes, you can omit the brown sugar if you prefer a more savory flavor.

Q4: How can I make a spicier version? Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Why This Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe Stands Out

Our homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe is a game-changer for breakfast lovers. Unlike store-bought versions, this recipe:

• Uses fresh, high-quality ingredients
• Contains no preservatives or additives
• Allows customization of spice levels
• Freezes well for meal prep convenience

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Keep leftover sausage patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or 30-45 seconds in the microwave.

Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen by adding 2-3 extra minutes to the cooking time.

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