Lovely Jimmy dean breakfast sausage seasoning recipe

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning recipe—just saying it takes me back to weekend mornings when the house smelled like comfort and sizzle. My dad had a ritual: cast iron on the stove, sausage patties crisping up while the coffee brewed. We never questioned what made them taste so good, but I later realized the magic was all in the seasoning.

Recreating that iconic blend at home became a mission of love—one that led me to experiment with spices, salt levels, and a few secret tweaks until I got it just right. And let me tell you, there’s something incredibly satisfying about crafting your own Jimmy Dean-inspired sausage from scratch. The aroma, the flavor, the nostalgia—it all comes rushing back with each bite.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the exact seasoning mix that captures that unmistakable flavor, plus tips on how to prep, store, and even tweak it to your own taste. Whether you like your sausage mild, peppery, or with a hint of sweetness, you’ll have the power to make it your own. So let’s dive in and build the ultimate breakfast from the spice jar up.

For more breakfast inspiration, check out our related recipes, such as Chicken Breakfast Recipes and Vegan Breakfast Recipes.

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The History of Jimmy Dean Sausage

Jimmy Dean sausage has been a breakfast favorite since the 1960s, founded by country singer and entrepreneur Jimmy Dean. Known for its high-quality, flavorful taste, the brand’s success lies in its unique seasoning blend—a mix of savory herbs, warm spices, and a subtle kick of heat. While the original recipe remains a well-kept secret, this copycat version brings you remarkably close to the iconic flavor. Perfect for those who love to cook at home, this recipe allows you to recreate the beloved taste of Jimmy Dean sausage while customizing it to your preferences. Whether you’re making patties or crumbles, this homemade version is sure to become a breakfast staple in your household.

Why Make Your Own Sausage Seasoning?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why making your own sausage seasoning is worth the effort:

1. Control Over Ingredients: Store-bought sausages often contain preservatives, additives, and high levels of sodium. By making your own seasoning, you can ensure that your sausage is made with wholesome, natural ingredients.
2. Customizable Flavor: Everyone’s taste preferences are different. Homemade seasoning allows you to adjust the spice level, saltiness, and herb profile to suit your palate.
3. Cost-Effective: Making your own seasoning blend is often more economical than buying pre-packaged sausages, especially if you already have the spices on hand.
4. Freshness: There’s nothing quite like the flavor of freshly ground spices and herbs. Homemade seasoning ensures a vibrant, aromatic experience.
5. Versatility: Once you master the base recipe, you can experiment with different meats (pork, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives) and create unique variations.

Why Make Jimmy dean breakfast sausage seasoning recipe?

There are several reasons to try your hand at homemade Jimmy Dean sausage:

• Control Over Ingredients: Homemade sausage eliminates preservatives and fillers commonly found in store-bought options.
• Cost Savings: Making sausage seasoning from scratch is economical, especially when buying spices in bulk.
• Customization: Adjust the flavor profile to match your preference for heat, sweetness, or herbal notes.

For example, recipes like our Ground Sausage Dinner Recipes and Easy Sweet Breakfast Recipes show just how versatile homemade sausage can be.

Essential Ingredients in Jimmy Dean Sausage

The secret to replicating the classic Jimmy Dean taste lies in its seasoning blend. Each spice plays a key role in delivering that savory, well-rounded flavor:

• Ground beef: The base ingredient, typically with 20% fat content for the right texture.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors.
• Sage: A hallmark of breakfast sausage, providing earthy and herbal notes.
• Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Bring a hint of savory sweetness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for a spicy kick.
• Parsley: Introduces fresh herbal undertones.
• Sugar: Optional for balancing flavors with a slight touch of sweetness.

By combining these ingredients, you can recreate a seasoning mix that rivals store-bought options.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

Ingredients

• To recreate the iconic Jimmy Dean flavor, you’ll need:
• 1 lb ground pork or ground beef (for a leaner twist)
• 1½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or finely chopped fresh)
• ½ tsp ground sage
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• ⅛ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• ½ tsp sugar (optional, adds balance and a mild sweetness)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Your Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, mix together all your dry seasonings:
salt, parsley, sage, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and sugar (if using).

Tip: Smell the mixture—it should have that signature breakfast sausage aroma!

Step 2: Season the Meat

Place your ground pork or beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the meat.

Using clean hands or a spatula, mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can make the sausage tough.

Step 3: Let It Rest (Optional but Recommended)

For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the mixture for 1–4 hours or overnight. This allows the spices to fully infuse the meat.

Step 4: Shape into Patties or Crumbles

When you’re ready to cook, form the meat into small patties (about 2–3 inches wide), or simply crumble it into a skillet for scrambled-style sausage.

Step 5: Cook It Up

Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add the sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes per side for patties, or stir frequently if making crumbles, until browned and cooked through (internal temp should be 160°F).

Tips for Perfect Sausage Every Time

1. Choose the Right Meat: For the most authentic flavor, use ground pork with a fat content of around 20-30%. The fat adds moisture and richness to the sausage.
2. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder sausage, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For extra heat, increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
3. Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh sage and thyme can elevate the flavor. Use double the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
4. Let It Rest: Allowing the seasoned meat to rest before cooking gives the flavors time to penetrate the meat.
5. Experiment with Variations: Add a touch of maple syrup for sweetness, or incorporate smoked paprika for a smoky twist.

Looking for more ideas? Try using this sausage in recipes like our hearty Ground Sausage Recipes for Dinner.

Customizing Your Sausage

One of the joys of making your own sausage is the freedom to tailor the recipe to your taste. Here are a few variations:

• Mild Version: Omit red pepper flakes for a kid-friendly option.
• Spicy Hot Sausage: Add extra cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
• Herb-Infused Sausage: Incorporate rosemary or thyme for a gourmet twist.
• Lean Option: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

These options pair wonderfully with our Quick Dinner Ideas for Two.

Creative Serving Ideas

Your homemade Jimmy Dean sausage is perfect for more than just breakfast patties:

• Breakfast Burritos: Mix crumbled sausage with scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa in a tortilla.
• Sausage Gravy: Use loose sausage to create a creamy gravy for biscuits.
• Stuffed Biscuits: Bake sausage-stuffed biscuits for an easy grab-and-go meal.
• Casseroles: Add sausage to breakfast bakes or hashbrown casseroles.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade breakfast sausage is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Here are some serving ideas:

1. Classic Breakfast: Serve sausage patties alongside scrambled eggs, toast, and hash browns for a traditional breakfast.
2. Sausage Gravy: Use crumbled sausage to make a rich, creamy gravy for biscuits.
3. Breakfast Sandwiches: Layer sausage patties on English muffins with cheese and a fried egg for a hearty sandwich.
4. Casseroles: Add crumbled sausage to breakfast casseroles or stratas for added flavor.
5. Pizza Topping: Use sausage crumbles as a topping for homemade breakfast pizza.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Mix cooked sausage with rice and stuff it into bell peppers for a savory meal.

Storing and Freezing

• Seasoning Blend: Store the dry seasoning mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
• Seasoned Meat: If you’ve mixed the seasoning with ground meat, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Shape the meat into patties or crumbles before freezing for easy use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh garlic and onion instead of powder?
Yes, fresh garlic and onion can be used, but keep in mind they may change the texture and moisture content of the sausage. Additionally, fresh ingredients can shorten the shelf life, so use the sausage promptly or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use this seasoning for other meats?
Absolutely! This versatile seasoning blend works wonderfully with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives. It adds a rich, savory flavor to any protein.

How do I make the sausage less salty?
To reduce the saltiness, decrease the salt to 1 teaspoon or adjust according to your taste preferences. You can also balance the flavor by adding a bit more of the other spices.

Can I make a large batch of seasoning?
Yes, you can easily scale up the recipe. Multiply the ingredients by the desired amount and mix thoroughly. Store the seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for future use.

What’s the best way to mix the seasoning into the meat?
For even distribution, use your hands to gently mix the seasoning into the meat. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sausage dense and tough.

Conclusion

Making your own Copycat Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Seasoning is a rewarding endeavor that allows you to enjoy a classic breakfast favorite with a personal touch. With this simple recipe, you can recreate the iconic flavor of Jimmy Dean sausage in your own kitchen, using wholesome ingredients and customizable adjustments. Whether you’re serving it as part of a hearty breakfast or incorporating it into other dishes, this homemade seasoning blend is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your spices, and get ready to savor the delicious taste of homemade breakfast sausage!

For more homemade recipes, check out Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe or explore our collection of comforting meals like Blackstone Recipes.