Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Making your own breakfast sausage lets you control the flavors and quality of ingredients, resulting in juicy, perfectly seasoned patties. These are quick to prepare, cook up beautifully in a skillet, and freeze well for future breakfasts. Plus, you can customize the spice mix to your liking.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds ground beef
⅓ cup finely chopped cooked chicken breast
2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
1 tablespoon canola oil
For the Spice Mixture
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped cooked chicken breast, maple syrup (if using), and the spice mixture. Mix gently to combine, avoiding overmixing.
- Scoop ¼ cup (about 2 ounces) of the mixture and flatten into patties about 2½ to 3 inches wide. You should get approximately 16 patties.
- Heat canola oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
Servings and timing
- Serves: 16 patties
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground lamb or turkey for different flavors.
- Add chopped fresh rosemary or sage for extra herbal flavor.
- Include a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Use maple syrup for a subtle sweetness or omit for a savory sausage.
- Shape into links instead of patties if preferred.
Storage/Reheating
- Freeze uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
- Cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes per side.
- Refrigerate cooked patties for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use ground lamb instead of beef?
Yes, lamb offers a rich and flavorful alternative.
How do I crush fennel seeds?
Use a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, no gluten-containing ingredients are included.
How do I prevent patties from falling apart?
Avoid overmixing and gently press the patties firmly before cooking.
Can I cook these in the oven?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Are these sausages spicy?
Mild by default; add more red pepper flakes to increase heat.
Can I add cheese to the patties?
Yes, fold small cubes of cheese into the mixture before shaping.
How long do they keep in the freezer?
Up to 3 months when properly stored.
Can I prepare the spice mix ahead?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
What’s the best oil for cooking?
Canola or vegetable oil works well; avoid strong-flavored oils.
Conclusion
Homemade Breakfast Sausage patties are flavorful, juicy, and incredibly satisfying. Easy to make and freezer-friendly, they’re perfect for elevating your breakfast routine with fresh, wholesome ingredients and a delicious spice blend. Whether for a weekend brunch or quick weekday meal, these patties deliver comfort and taste in every bite.

Homemade Breakfast Sausage
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 patties
- Category: Breakfast, Main Dish
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy, flavorful homemade breakfast sausage patties made with ground beef, cooked chicken, and a fresh spice blend. Easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and perfect for any breakfast.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds ground beef
⅓ cup finely chopped cooked chicken breast
2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage leaves
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
½ teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped cooked chicken breast, maple syrup (if using), and the spice mixture. Mix gently to combine without overmixing.
- Scoop ¼ cup (about 2 ounces) of mixture and flatten into 2½ to 3-inch patties; make about 16 patties.
- Heat canola oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
Notes
Swap ground beef for lamb or turkey for different flavors.
Add fresh rosemary or sage for extra herbal notes.
Include smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
Use maple syrup for subtle sweetness or omit for savory flavor.
Shape into links instead of patties if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg