Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This homemade breakfast turkey sausage recipe is your answer. It's bursting with savory spices, lean protein, and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy week mornings or a relaxed weekend brunch. Say goodbye to processed breakfast meats and hello to a delicious and guilt-free start to your day! This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire and a great quick dinner idea if you're short on time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (quick-cooking)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
Step 1: Combine the ingredients. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground turkey, rolled oats, onion, garlic, sage, thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and egg. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage tough.
Step 2: Shape the sausage. Using your hands, gently form the mixture into small patties or links, about 1-2 inches thick.
Step 3: Cook the sausage. You have several options here:
- Pan-frying: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausages for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and browned.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the sausages on it. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and enjoy! Serve your delicious homemade breakfast turkey sausage immediately. They’re fantastic on their own, alongside eggs, in breakfast burritos, or crumbled over salads.
Tips for the Best Breakfast Turkey Sausage:
- Don't overmix the meat: Overmixing can result in tough sausage. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more or less of any spice to suit your taste preferences. Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or marjoram for unique flavor profiles.
- Add some veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the mixture.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the sausage mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your sausages and the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving (approximately 4 sausages) will provide:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This breakfast turkey sausage recipe is a fantastic example of healthy, homemade cooking. It's a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. Enjoy!