Busy mornings call for a hearty breakfast that fuels the entire family, and what better way to start the day than with homemade breakfast sausage patties? Crafting your own sausage patties can be a delightful kitchen adventure, allowing you to control the flavors and, most importantly, the salt content to suit your family's taste.

Why Homemade Sausage Patties?

Store-bought sausage patties can often be too salty or filled with preservatives. By making them at home, you ensure healthier ingredients and a taste that can be customized. Plus, it's an excellent way to involve kids in cooking, teaching them valuable kitchen skills and the importance of a nutritious breakfast.

Essential Ingredients

To make your own breakfast sausage patties, you'll need:

• 1 pound ground pork
• 2 teaspoons dried sage
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

These ingredients can be adjusted to suit your family's preferences. For a less spicy version, omit the red pepper flakes, or add more brown sugar for a slightly sweeter patty.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Meat

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork with all the seasonings. It's best to use your hands to mix everything thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

2. Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into equal portions, about 8 patties. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten them into patties. For consistency, use a kitchen scale to weigh each portion, aiming for around 2 ounces per patty.

3. Cook the Patties

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This ensures the pork is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Patties

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices can make a big difference in flavor. Consider growing a small herb garden for easy access to fresh ingredients.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Try adding garlic powder or onion powder for an extra kick.
• Freeze for Later: Double the recipe and freeze half of the uncooked patties. Place parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. They can be cooked directly from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

These sausage patties are versatile and can be served in various ways:

1. Classic with eggs and toast for a traditional breakfast.
2. As a breakfast sandwich with cheese and a fried egg on an English muffin.
3. Chopped up in a breakfast burrito with scrambled eggs and salsa.