Are you craving a delicious and healthy sausage option without the guilt? Look no further! This smoked turkey sausage recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend cooking project. It's surprisingly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and a much healthier alternative to store-bought sausages. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade delicious dish! This recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, onion, green bell pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, sage, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. This is the perfect time to get your kids involved in homemade cooking.
Forming the Sausages:
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Gently stir in the breadcrumbs and beaten egg. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the sausage tough.
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Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a sausage, approximately 4-5 inches long. You can use your hands or a sausage stuffer if you have one.
Smoking the Sausages:
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Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). You can use wood chips like hickory or applewood for a smoky flavor.
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Place the sausages on the smoker grates, ensuring they aren't overcrowded.
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Smoke the sausages for 1-1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You'll know they're done when they're firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.
Serving Suggestions:
- Remove the sausages from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them on their own, in a bun with your favorite toppings, or as part of a larger meal. This quick dinner idea is perfect for a weeknight.
Tips for the Best Smoked Turkey Sausage:
- Don't overmix the sausage meat: Overmixing can lead to tough sausages. Mix until just combined.
- Use high-quality ground turkey: The flavor of your sausage will be directly impacted by the quality of the ground turkey you use.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
- Consider adding other vegetables: Experiment with different vegetables like carrots or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Herby Sausage: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an aromatic twist.
- Cheese Sausage: Incorporate shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese into the sausage mixture for a cheesy delight.
Nutritional Information (per sausage, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 2-4g
This smoked turkey sausage recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. It's a simple yet impressive recipe that's perfect for any skill level. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and variations to create your own signature smoked turkey sausage! This is one of the best recipes for a healthy and delicious meal.