Easy Jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe those five words bring back memories of lazy Sunday mornings, the comforting crackle of a skillet, and the unmistakable smell of seasoned sausage filling the kitchen. I remember the first time I tried to recreate that nostalgic flavor at home. It wasn’t about being fancy—it was about chasing that familiar, hearty taste that made breakfast feel like a small celebration. Armed with a handful of spices and some ground pork, I mixed, shaped, and fried my first batch. It wasn’t perfect, but it was close—close enough to make me smile.

That’s the magic of making your own Jimmy Dean-style sausage at home. You get to control the ingredients, tailor the seasoning to your taste, and skip the preservatives without sacrificing the flavor you love. Whether you’re a breakfast traditionalist or someone who loves a little kick, this recipe is endlessly customizable and surprisingly simple.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to recreate that classic Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage flavor—from the ideal spice blend to cooking tips that ensure a perfect sizzle every time. Let’s turn your next breakfast into a homemade masterpiece.

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Jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe

Jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe


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  • Author: Rita Ana

Ingredients

Scale
      • 1 lb ground beef

      • 1 tsp salt

      • ½ tsp black pepper

      • 1 tsp ground sage

      • ½ tsp dried thyme

      • ¼ tsp garlic powder

      • ¼ tsp onion powder

      • 1 tbsp brown sugar

      • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

      • 2 tbsp water

    Optional Additions (choose any or all)

      • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for extra heat)

      • ½ tsp smoked paprika (for smoky depth)

      • 1 tbsp maple syrup (for a sweet-savory twist)


Instructions

  • Prepare the spice mix:
    In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, ground sage, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), and any optional spices you like (cayenne pepper, smoked paprika). Mix well.

  • Mix the meat:
    Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle the spice mix evenly over the meat. Add the 2 tablespoons of water to help bind the mixture and keep it moist.

  • Combine thoroughly:
    Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix everything until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Be careful not to overwork it to keep the patties tender.

  • Shape the patties:
    Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into patties about 3 inches in diameter and about ½ inch thick.

  • Cook the patties:
    Heat a large skillet over medium heat. You can lightly oil the pan or cook them in a non-stick skillet. Place the patties in the skillet, leaving a little space between each.

  • Brown and cook through:
    Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they are nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C). Flip carefully to avoid breaking.

 

  • Serve warm:
    Serve the sausage patties hot with your favorite breakfast sides like eggs, toast, or pancakes. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later.

Notes

Tips:

 

  • If you prefer a slightly sweeter sausage, add the maple syrup to the meat mixture before shaping.

  • For extra smoky flavor, add smoked paprika.

  • You can also add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh twist.

  • To store, refrigerate cooked patties for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Category: Meat
  • Method: Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Why Make Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage at Home?

Jimmy Dean sausages are a breakfast staple for many, but there are several compelling reasons to make your own at home:

  1. Ingredient Control: When you make sausages at home, you have complete control over the quality and type of ingredients used. You can choose organic, grass-fed, or locally sourced meats and spices.
  2. Flavor Customization: Homemade sausages allow you to adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste. Whether you prefer a spicier kick or a more herbaceous flavor, the choice is yours.
  3. Cost-Effectiveness: Making sausages at home can be more economical in the long run, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk or make large batches to freeze.
  4. Healthier Options: You can tailor the recipe to be healthier by using leaner cuts of meat, reducing sodium, or incorporating additional herbs and spices for flavor without extra calories.
  5. Satisfaction of Homemade: There’s a unique satisfaction that comes from making something from scratch, especially when it turns out delicious!

To explore other breakfast meat options, check out our article on chicken breakfast recipes.

Ingredients for Homemade Jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe

To replicate the iconic flavor of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausages, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp ground sage
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp water

Optional Additions (choose any or all)

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (for extra heat)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (for smoky depth)
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup (for a sweet-savory twist)

Tools You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You likely already have most of the necessary tools in your kitchen:

  • Mixing bowl: For combining the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons: For precise seasoning.
  • Skillet or frying pan: To cook the patties to perfection.
  • Spatula: For flipping the sausages.
  • Meat thermometer: To ensure the sausages reach a safe internal temperature.

For advanced variations, consider exploring equipment like sausage stuffers, as discussed in our guide to ground sausage dinner recipes.

Jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe

Step-by-Step Recipe

Prepare the spice mix:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, ground sage, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), and any optional spices you like (cayenne pepper, smoked paprika). Mix well.

Mix the meat:
Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle the spice mix evenly over the meat. Add the 2 tablespoons of water to help bind the mixture and keep it moist.

Combine thoroughly:
Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix everything until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Be careful not to overwork it to keep the patties tender.

Shape the patties:
Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten into patties about 3 inches in diameter and about ½ inch thick.

Cook the patties:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. You can lightly oil the pan or cook them in a non-stick skillet. Place the patties in the skillet, leaving a little space between each.

Brown and cook through:
Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they are nicely browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C). Flip carefully to avoid breaking.

Serve warm:
Serve the sausage patties hot with your favorite breakfast sides like eggs, toast, or pancakes. They also freeze well if you want to save some for later.

Store

  1. Store for Later: If you’re not serving the sausages right away, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to four days.
  2. Freeze for Long-Term Storage: To freeze, place the cooked or uncooked patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Sausage

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture. You can also experiment with other spicy ingredients like chili powder or hot sauce.

2. Maple-Infused Sausage

For a sweet and savory twist, mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup into the sausage mixture. This variation pairs beautifully with pancakes or waffles.

3. Vegan Breakfast Sausage

If you’re looking for a plant-based alternative, substitute the ground pork with a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor, and consider adding a bit of liquid smoke for a smoky depth.

For more creative ideas, explore our recipes for vegan breakfast options.

Tips for Enhancing the Recipe

  • Tips for Enhancing the Recipe
  • Use Fresh Pork: Freshly ground pork shoulder delivers the best flavor and texture. If you’re grinding your own meat, aim for a mix of 70% lean meat and 30% fat for optimal juiciness.
  • Balance Flavors: Don’t skip the sage—it’s the key to replicating the authentic Jimmy Dean flavor. However, feel free to adjust the other seasonings to suit your taste.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the meat can lead to tough sausages. Mix just until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  • Experiment with Herbs: While sage and thyme are classic choices, you can experiment with other herbs like rosemary, marjoram, or even a touch of fennel for a different flavor profile.
  • Cook to the Right Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the sausages reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This ensures they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.

If you’re interested in pairing options, consider reading about our sweet breakfast recipes.

Storage and Shelf Life

  1. Refrigeration: Store cooked sausages in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
  2. Freezing: Both raw and cooked sausages can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze raw patties, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked sausages, let them cool completely before freezing.
  3. Thawing: Thaw frozen sausages overnight in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.

FAQs

1. What Makes Jimmy Dean Sausages Unique?

The signature sage seasoning and the perfect blend of spices set Jimmy Dean sausages apart. The balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors creates a distinctive taste that’s hard to replicate.

2. Can I Use Other Meats?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require additional fat or moisture to prevent the sausages from drying out.

3. What’s the Best Way to Avoid Dry Sausages?

Don’t overcook the sausages, and make sure to include a bit of water or fat in the mixture. Cooking over medium heat and monitoring the internal temperature will help ensure juicy, flavorful sausages.

4. Can I Make the Sausage Healthier?

Absolutely! Use lean ground meat, reduce the salt content, and incorporate additional herbs and spices for flavor without extra calories. You can also experiment with plant-based alternatives for a healthier option.

Final Thoughts

Homemade jimmy dean breakfast sausage recipe is a game-changer. They’re simple to make, easy to customize, and taste just as good—if not better—than the store-bought version. Whether you’re a fan of spicy sausages or prefer a sweeter variation, this recipe is a versatile base for endless breakfast creations.

For more inspiring recipes and tips, visit Recipes Briny.

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