There’s something heartwarming about the aroma of homemade sausage sizzling in a skillet on a quiet morning. These Country Breakfast Sausage Patties deliver that same cozy, down-home flavor—without using pork. Crafted from lean, flavorful ground chicken or turkey, they’re seasoned with herbs like sage and thyme and spiced with a gentle kick of red pepper. The result is a wholesome, juicy patty that pairs beautifully with biscuits, eggs, or even pancakes. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch or meal prepping for the week, these patties bring comfort and satisfaction to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You only need ground chicken or turkey and everyday pantry spices.
- Healthier Alternative: A lighter take on traditional sausage that’s just as tasty.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the herbs and spice level to match your preferences.
- Versatile Use: Great for breakfast, sandwiches, or as a protein addition to grain bowls.
- Perfect for Freezing: Cook in bulk and freeze for quick, ready-to-eat meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey (preferably with some fat for moisture)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added juiciness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Seasonings
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken or turkey, salt, black pepper, sage, thyme, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, and olive oil. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix just until everything is evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the patties dense.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each one into a round patty about ½ inch thick. Lightly moisten your hands with cold water if the mixture feels sticky—this makes shaping easier and smoother.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. If using a leaner meat, add a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Arrange the patties in the hot skillet, leaving space between each one. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip gently to keep them intact, and avoid pressing down with a spatula to retain their juices.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately while warm, or store for later use.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Country Breakfast: Serve with scrambled eggs, roasted potatoes, and a side of homemade biscuits.
- Breakfast Sandwich: Layer a patty with a fried egg, cheese, and a slice of tomato on an English muffin or toast.
- Sweet & Savory Combo: Pair with pancakes or waffles and drizzle with a touch of maple syrup for that classic diner-style flavor.
- Protein-Packed Lunch: Add to a grain bowl or salad for a healthy midday meal.
- Brunch Board: Serve alongside fresh fruit, jam, and muffins for a complete brunch spread.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To Make Ahead
Mix and shape the patties the night before, then refrigerate them overnight. This allows the flavors to develop, making the sausage even more flavorful when cooked.
To Store Cooked Patties
Once the patties have cooled, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
To Freeze
You can freeze the patties raw or cooked for longer storage:
- Uncooked Patties: Lay them flat on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
- Cooked Patties: Cool completely, wrap each patty individually, and freeze.
When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet or oven.
Flavor Variations
- Herb Lovers’ Patties: Add rosemary, parsley, or chives for a fresh herbal flavor.
- Sweet Maple Sausage: Stir in 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.
- Spicy Southwest Style: Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for extra heat.
- Apple Sage Patties: Fold in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped apple for a sweet-savory combination.
- Garlic & Onion Boost: Add ½ teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon onion powder for deeper flavor.
Tips for Perfect Country-Style Patties
- Choose the Right Meat: Use ground chicken or turkey with a bit of fat (around 10–15%) for the best texture and juiciness.
- Chill Before Cooking: If the mixture feels too soft, refrigerate the shaped patties for 15–20 minutes before frying.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix only until the ingredients come together; overmixing can make the patties tough.
- Cook Evenly: Make sure all patties are the same size and thickness for consistent cooking.
- Test Before Cooking All: Fry a small portion of the mixture to taste-test the seasoning, then adjust as needed.
Nutrition (Per Patty)
Approximate values (may vary depending on ingredients):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken or turkey?
Yes, you can use lean ground beef or even a plant-based alternative. The texture will differ slightly, but the flavor remains rich and savory with the same seasoning blend.
How can I make these sausage patties extra juicy?
Adding a small amount of olive oil or grated zucchini to the mixture can help maintain moisture, especially when using lean meats like chicken.
Can I cook these patties in the oven?
Definitely. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and bake the patties for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Are these patties suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These patties freeze beautifully and reheat well. Prepare a batch on the weekend and enjoy quick, protein-packed breakfasts all week long.
Can I make them vegetarian?
You can! Substitute the ground meat with mashed chickpeas or a plant-based ground alternative, and keep the same seasonings for that savory “sausage” flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Country Breakfast Sausage Patties are a wholesome, flavorful alternative to traditional pork sausage—without sacrificing taste or texture. The blend of sage, thyme, and gentle spice makes them irresistibly savory, while the lean meat keeps them light yet satisfying.
Perfect for breakfast sandwiches, brunch platters, or quick grab-and-go meals, these patties bring homemade comfort to your kitchen any day of the week. With their rich flavor, easy prep, and adaptability, they’re proof that healthy eating can still taste indulgent and comforting.