Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe – Easy & Tasty
Every Sunday morning, the sizzle of breakfast sausage fills my kitchen. It brings back memories of family gatherings and lazy weekend breakfasts. Making your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe is more than cooking. It’s about recreating those warm, nostalgic moments that connect us to home.
In just 20 minutes, you can turn simple ingredients into a delicious Jimmy Dean breakfast with sausage recipe. This homemade sausage will make your morning meal extraordinary. It’s perfect for busy home cooks or breakfast enthusiasts.
Making your own breakfast sausage lets you control the flavor, ingredients, and quality. No more wondering what’s inside those pre-packaged links. Now, you can craft a breakfast sausage that’s perfectly seasoned and made with love.
Key Takeaways
- Create a homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage in just 20 minutes
- Control ingredients and customize flavor profiles
- Perfect for weekend breakfasts and meal prep
- Save money compared to store-bought sausages
- Impress family and friends with your culinary skills
Understanding Jimmy Dean’s Iconic Breakfast Sausage

Since 1969, Jimmy Dean sausages have changed breakfasts in America. They are loved for their tasty flavor and how well they work in many dishes. They’re perfect for making sausage bread or trying out Italian sausage bread.
The Origins of a Breakfast Legend
Jimmy Dean Foods started in Virginia as a small family business. It quickly became known for its top-notch pork products and creative breakfast ideas. People enjoyed the sausages’ consistent taste and how easy they were to use.
What Sets Jimmy Dean Sausages Apart
- Premium pork selection
- Carefully crafted seasoning blends
- Consistent quality and flavor
- Versatile cooking options
Exploring Sausage Varieties
Jimmy Dean has a wide range of breakfast sausages for everyone:
- Original Recipe – Classic flavor profile
- Spicy Sausage – For heat lovers
- Maple Breakfast Sausage – Sweet and savory
- Turkey Sausage – Leaner alternative
With 43 people looking for their recipe lately, Jimmy Dean still inspires cooks to make tasty breakfasts.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Jimmy Dean Sausage
Starting your sausage and bread recipe with quality ingredients is key. Your homemade venison breakfast sausage needs the right mix to taste like Jimmy Dean’s.
Great breakfast sausage begins with top-notch ground meat. Aim for a meat ratio that’s just right for taste and texture:
- Ground pork (65-70% lean)
- Fat content (30-35%)
- Optional: Ground venison for a leaner alternative
Spices are what turn regular meat into amazing breakfast sausage:
- Kosher salt
- Fresh ground black pepper
- Dried sage
- Red pepper flakes
- Garlic powder
When making your sausage and bread, don’t forget these extra ingredients. They boost flavor and texture:
- Optional MSG (¼ teaspoon)
- Brown sugar for subtle sweetness
- Ground thyme
- Dried marjoram


Pro tip: For venison sausage, tweak spice levels to match the meat’s strong taste. The goal is to make a breakfast that’s unforgettable.
Equipment Needed for Making Breakfast Sausage
Making homemade sausage needs the right kitchen tools and equipment. Whether you’re making traditional breakfast sausage or deer sausage, the right gear is key. It makes your cooking journey better.
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp kitchen knife
- Meat grinder or food processor
- Cutting board
- Kitchen scale
- Measuring cups and spoons
Kitchen Tools and Appliances
Your basic toolkit for sausage making should be versatile. A strong meat grinder is essential for processing meat. This is true for making sausage bread or using lean meats like deer sausage. Digital kitchen scales help with exact ingredient measurements, which is important for consistent flavor.
Optional Equipment for Large Batch Production
If you want to make more sausage, consider these:
- Commercial-grade meat grinder
- Sausage stuffer attachment
- Vacuum sealer
- Industrial mixing stand
Proper Storage Containers
Choosing the right storage keeps your homemade sausage fresh. Airtight containers and vacuum-sealed bags stop freezer burn and keep quality up. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers with tight lids are best for the fridge.
Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Making your own jimmy dean breakfast sausage at home is simple. Just a few ingredients and basic cooking skills are needed. You can make tasty homemade sausage patties that are just as good as store-bought ones.
Get ready to make your breakfast better with this authentic recipe. It brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen. The secret is using the right spices and fresh ground pork.
Key Ingredients
- Ground pork (just under 1 lb / 400g)
- Salt (1 tablespoon)
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
- Dried sage (1 tablespoon)
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon)
- Ground coriander (1/2 teaspoon)
Nutritional Breakdown
Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 204 |
Total Fat | 16.1g |
Protein | 14.2g |
Cholesterol | 53mg |
Want to try a chinese sausage recipe? Add five-spice powder or change some spices for an Asian twist. This recipe is great for experimenting with different flavors.
Preparation Tips
- Mix ground pork with all spices thoroughly
- Form into 6-8 medium-sized patties
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 160°F
- Drain excess fat using 2-3 paper towels
Pro tip: Mix spices gently into the meat to avoid making the sausage tough.
Seasoning Variations and Flavor Profiles
Making the perfect sausage is all about mixing flavors and spices. Whether you’re making a classic breakfast or trying out chinese sausage fried rice, knowing about seasoning variations can make a big difference.
Different flavors can turn your sausage into something amazing. The trick is to try out different spice mixes that match your cooking style and taste.
Original Flavor Blend
The classic original blend is the base of great breakfast sausage. Here’s a spice mix for every pound of meat:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Hot and Spicy Version
If you like a little heat, the hot and spicy version is for you. It adds excitement to cooking chinese sausage and traditional breakfasts:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Sage Variety Mix
A mix heavy on sage adds a deep, aromatic flavor. It’s perfect for those who love herbal notes:
- 1½ teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Each mix gives your cooking a unique taste. Remember, the right fat content is 20-25% for moisture and flavor.
Seasoning Type | Key Characteristics | Best Used With |
---|---|---|
Original Blend | Balanced, classic flavor | Traditional breakfast dishes |
Hot and Spicy | Intense, bold heat | Chinese sausage fried rice, spicy meals |
Sage Variety | Herbal, aromatic profile | Thanksgiving-style dishes |
Pro tip: Always adjust spices to your personal taste and experiment with different combinations!
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Making your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage is simpler than you think. The secret to a tasty breakfast is in the preparation and mixing of ingredients.
Begin with top-notch ground pork. Use 1 pound of fresh ground pork with a moderate fat content. This ensures your sausage patties are juicy and full of flavor.
- Ingredient Combination: Mix your ground pork with these seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sage
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Mixing Technique: Mix the seasonings well into the meat with your hands. Don’t overmix to avoid tough sausage.
- Patty Formation: Shape the meat into 2-3 ounce patties. Make the center thinner than the edges to prevent shrinkage when cooking.
- Cooking Process: Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Pro tip: Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick in your Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe. These homemade sausage patties can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.
Cooking Techniques and Tips
Learning to cook homemade sausage is all about precision and knowing your cooking methods. Whether you’re making sausage bread or patties, the right technique makes all the difference.
Pan-Frying Instructions
Pan-frying is the top choice for cooking sausage patties. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan to medium heat
- Make sure the pan is lightly oiled to prevent sticking
- Cook sausage patties for 10-12 minutes on the first side
- Flip and cook an additional 5-6 minutes until golden brown
- Internal temperature should reach 160°F for food safety
Temperature Guidelines
Keeping the right temperature is key for both safety and flavor, whether you’re making italian sausage bread or sausages:
Cooking Method | Temperature Range | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Skillet | Medium (325-350°F) | 10-12 minutes total |
Oven | 375°F | 15-18 minutes |
Grill | Medium-High (400°F) | 7-10 minutes |
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get that ideal sausage texture – crispy outside and juicy inside – follow these tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ground meat
- Don’t overwork the meat mixture
- Let patties rest at room temperature before cooking
- Avoid pressing down on sausages while cooking
- Let sausages rest 3-5 minutes after cooking
By using these techniques, you’ll make delicious sausage patties. They’re perfect for breakfast, sausage bread, or Italian sausage bread.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Keeping your homemade breakfast sausage fresh is key. Whether you’re making a classic sausage and bread dish or trying a venison breakfast sausage, storing it right is crucial. It keeps the flavor strong and ensures it’s safe to eat.
When you store cooked sausages in the fridge, use an airtight container. An open sausage package can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Use sealed bags or containers to keep air out and keep it fresh.
- Refrigerator storage: Up to 4 days
- Freezer storage: Up to 3 months
- Recommended storage container: Freezer-safe plastic bag or sealed container
Freezing sausages needs some special steps:
- Wrap sausages tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil
- Place wrapped sausages in a freezer-safe bag
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn
- Label the package with the date of freezing
Pro tip: Avoid frequent thawing and refreezing, as this can negatively impact the sausage’s texture and flavor. When you’re ready to use frozen sausages, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best results.
For your sausage and bread recipe or venison breakfast sausage recipe, always ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) before serving to guarantee food safety.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your homemade breakfast sausage even better with creative serving ideas. Whether you’ve made deer sausage or want to try new flavors, these tips will help. They’ll make your cooking more exciting.
Classic Breakfast Combinations
Your homemade sausage is perfect for traditional breakfasts. Try these classic pairings:
- Scrambled eggs with sausage patties
- Fluffy pancakes topped with crispy sausage
- Breakfast sandwiches using sausage as the protein
- Hash browns accompanied by sausage links
Creative Culinary Adventures
For those who love to try new things, add your sausage to unexpected dishes. Chinese sausage fried rice is a great choice. It mixes your sausage with Asian flavors, making breakfast exciting.
Versatile Meal Options
Your sausage isn’t just for breakfast. Here are some new ways to serve it:
- Crumble sausage into frittatas
- Use as a pizza topping
- Add to pasta dishes for extra flavor
- Create sausage-stuffed peppers
Pro tip: If you like meal prep, freeze sausage patties. Reheat them in the microwave for 1.5 minutes at 50% power. You’ll have a tasty protein in no time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Making homemade breakfast sausage can be tricky. Whether you’re making venison or Chinese sausage, knowing common problems helps. This way, you can make perfect sausage every time.
Moisture and Texture Problems
Dry sausage often comes from overcooking or using lean meat. To avoid this:
- Use meat with a 70/30 lean-to-fat ratio
- Avoid overcooking by monitoring internal temperature
- Keep meat cold during preparation
Flavor Development Challenges
If your sausage lacks flavor, try these tips:
- Toast spices before mixing to enhance aromatics
- Use fresh herbs and high-quality seasonings
- Allow seasoned meat to rest overnight for deeper flavor penetration
Binding and Forming Issues
Having trouble forming patties? Try these solutions:
- Chilling meat mixture before shaping
- Using slightly wet hands when forming patties
- Adding breadcrumbs or egg as a natural binder
By using these troubleshooting tips, you’ll become a pro at making delicious homemade sausages. You’ll get consistent quality and flavor every time.
Health and Nutritional Information
When you make a jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe, knowing its nutrition is key. It has a good mix of protein and calories. This makes it fit into many diets.
Let’s look at the nutrition for your homemade sausage bread and breakfast sausage:
Nutritional Component | Amount per Patty |
---|---|
Calories | 126 |
Total Fat | 9.8g |
Protein | 8g |
Cholesterol | 32.7mg |
Sodium | 150.8mg |
Carbohydrates | 1.3g |
If you’re watching your diet, here are some tips:
- Use leaner ground pork to reduce fat content
- Substitute some meat with ground turkey for lower calories
- Reduce sodium by using low-sodium spices
- Control portion sizes
Your homemade jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe lets you control what goes in. Moderation is key to make it part of a healthy diet.
Conclusion
Making your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe lets you explore new flavors. You can choose what goes into your homemade sausage patties. This means you can make them just the way you like them.
This recipe is super flexible. You can try out different spice mixes, like sage or spicy ones. Using ground turkey makes your sausage leaner but still tasty. Plus, you can freeze the patties for up to three months for a quick breakfast.
Homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage is more than just food. It’s a way to make your mornings better. It helps you avoid processed foods, cut down on sodium, and enjoy a fresh, tasty breakfast. Cooking is all about trying new things and improving your recipes.
FAQ
How long can I store homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage?
Can I use ground turkey instead of pork for the sausage recipe?
What are the key spices used in Jimmy Dean-style breakfast sausage?
How do I prevent my homemade sausage from becoming dry?
Can I make a spicy version of the Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage?
Is homemade sausage healthier than store-bought?
How can I tell if my sausage is cooked properly?
Can I freeze the sausage patties before cooking?
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