Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe (Homemade Copycat)
Table of Contents
If you’ve ever enjoyed the savory, perfectly seasoned flavor of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage, you know it’s a breakfast staple like no other. Whether you’re making biscuits and gravy, a breakfast sandwich, or just enjoying it with scrambled eggs, Jimmy Dean’s sausage has earned its spot in countless kitchens.
But what if you could make your own Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe at home—with fresh ingredients and your own twist? In this post, we’ll show you how to create a delicious homemade version that rivals the original and can be customized to your taste.
Why Make Your Own Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage?
There are plenty of reasons to go the DIY route with breakfast sausage:
- Fresh ingredients with no preservatives or additives
- Customize flavors (mild, spicy, maple, or sage)
- Control over salt and fat content
- Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later use
Plus, this homemade Jimmy Dean-style sausage is super easy to make—no special equipment required!
Ingredients for Homemade Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage
To mimic the classic flavor, you’ll need ground pork and a specific blend of spices. Here’s the base recipe:
Basic Jimmy Dean-Style Sausage Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork (80/20 for best results)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp ground sage
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/4 tsp coriander (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 tsp MSG (optional for authentic umami flavor)
- 1 tsp brown sugar (or maple syrup for sweetness)
Looking for a side dish to serve with this sausage? Check out our Easy Skillet Breakfast Potatoes recipe!
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Spices
In a small bowl, combine all spices thoroughly. This ensures even seasoning throughout the meat.
Step 2: Combine with Ground Pork
In a large bowl, add the spice mixture to the ground pork. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix. Don’t overwork the meat—it should just be combined.
Step 3: Rest (Optional but Recommended)
Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Cook and Serve
Form into patties or break apart and cook in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked (internal temp of 160°F). Each side takes about 3–4 minutes.
Storage Tip: You can freeze raw sausage patties between wax paper for up to 2 months.
Variations of Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage
One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
Spicy Version:
- Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Increase red pepper flakes to 1 tsp
Maple Sausage:
- Swap brown sugar for 1 tbsp real maple syrup
- Add a dash of cinnamon for extra depth
Sage Lover’s Blend:
- Double the ground sage
- Add 1/4 tsp marjoram for extra herby flavor
Want to add this to a breakfast sandwich? Try our Fluffy Biscuit Recipe as the perfect base.
Serving Ideas
Your homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage goes well with:
- Scrambled or fried eggs
- Breakfast burritos or tacos
- Sausage gravy (yes, we have a recipe!)
- Breakfast casseroles
- Sausage, egg, and cheese sandwiches
- Waffles or pancakes for a sweet and savory combo
You can even add it to our Savory Pie Recipes for an extra kick!
Healthier Modifications
Looking for a lighter version?
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork
- Reduce salt and skip the sugar
- Use olive oil spray when cooking to cut down on fat
These changes still keep the flavor but lighten the calorie count, making it great for a clean eating plan.
Nutritional Information (Per 1 Sausage Patty)
Based on 1 lb of pork divided into 6 patties:
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
Nutritional values vary slightly depending on meat choice and spice levels.
Tips for Making the Best Homemade Sausage
- Don’t skip the rest time. It really enhances the flavor.
- Make a test patty before forming all your sausage. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Use a kitchen scale to keep patties uniform for even cooking.
- Cook to 160°F using a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
Need tools for cooking? We recommend Lodge Cast Iron Skillets for even heat and authentic flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this sausage ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate raw patties for up to 3 days or freeze them for 2–3 months.
Is this the exact Jimmy Dean recipe?
No, the official recipe is a secret. This is a copycat version designed to closely match the flavor and texture using simple home ingredients.
Can I use this sausage in other recipes?
Absolutely! Use it in stuffing, lasagna, breakfast pizzas, or as a pizza topping.
Looking for new ways to use sausage? Browse our Creative Brunch Recipes for ideas!
Final Thoughts
This Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe is the perfect make-at-home alternative to store-bought sausage. With simple spices and customizable flavors, it’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking a hearty weekend brunch, this savory, juicy sausage will elevate any breakfast plate.
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- Easy Skillet Breakfast Potatoes
- Fluffy Biscuit Recipe
- Savory Breakfast Pies
- Healthy Meal Ideas
- Creative Brunch Recipes
