Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe: A Savory Start to Your Day

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage has become a staple in many households across the United States. Known for its bold flavors and savory taste, it has a special place in the world of breakfast meats. Whether you are preparing a hearty breakfast, an easy brunch, or even a quick dinner, Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage adds the perfect touch. This article will walk you through an easy, homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage recipe, share some variations, and provide helpful tips for getting the most out of this flavorful sausage.

Why Choose Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage?

Jimmy Dean is a trusted name when it comes to breakfast sausage. With its history dating back to 1969, the brand has built a reputation for producing high-quality, delicious sausage that adds a touch of comfort to your morning meals.

Benefits of Using Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

1. Versatile: Can be used in various dishes like scrambled eggs, breakfast casseroles, or sausage gravy.
2. Rich Flavor: Infused with a blend of spices that brings out the savory richness.
3. Convenient: Available in a variety of forms such as links, patties, and crumbles for your convenience.
4. Easy to Cook: Requires minimal preparation and cooks up quickly.

Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe: The Classic Version

Making your own version of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage at home is incredibly simple. Here’s a recipe that will give you that same delicious flavor using easy-to-find ingredients.

Ingredients for Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Instructions

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, sage, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything together thoroughly.
2. Add Water: Add the tablespoon of water and mix again. This will help bind the ingredients together, ensuring that your sausage stays juicy while cooking.
3. Shape the Sausage: If you’re making patties, shape the sausage mixture into 6-8 patties, depending on your desired size. If you prefer to make sausage crumbles, simply leave it loose.
4. Cook the Sausage: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the sausage for about 4-5 minutes per side or until it’s fully cooked and browned. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 160°F (71°C).
5. Serve: Serve the sausage on its own, or add it to a classic breakfast spread with eggs, toast, or pancakes.

Variations of Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

There are several ways to customize your sausage recipe based on personal preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

1. Spicy Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

To add some heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also experiment with spicy sausage seasoning blends for extra flavor.

2. Maple Breakfast Sausage

For a slightly sweet and savory flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the mix. This will give your sausage a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with scrambled eggs.

3. Herb-infused Jimmy Dean Sausage

If you prefer a more herbal flavor, try adding more fresh herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil. Fresh thyme or sage would also work wonderfully in this variation.

4. Turkey Breakfast Sausage

For a leaner alternative, substitute ground pork with ground turkey. Turkey breakfast sausage will be slightly lighter but still delicious and flavorful.

Tips for Making Perfect Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

To make sure your homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage is as flavorful and tender as possible, here are a few tips:

• Use Cold Meat: Keep the pork cold until it’s time to cook. Cold meat holds its shape better during the mixing process and prevents the fat from breaking down too early.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the sausage mixture can make it tough. Mix just until all the ingredients are combined.
• Experiment with Spice: Adjust the amount of sage, thyme, and pepper to suit your taste. If you like a more peppery sausage, add a bit more black pepper.
• Cook on Medium Heat: Cooking on too high a heat can cause the sausage to burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. Medium heat ensures the sausage cooks evenly.

Recipe Ideas Using Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage

Now that you’ve mastered making Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage, why not try incorporating it into some other tasty dishes?

1. Sausage Breakfast Casserole

A hearty and filling dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. Layer sausage, eggs, cheese, and your choice of veggies in a casserole dish and bake until golden and bubbly.

2. Sausage and Egg Muffins

Mix crumbled Jimmy Dean sausage with scrambled eggs and cheese, then spoon the mixture into muffin tins. Bake until set for an easy grab-and-go breakfast.

3. Sausage Gravy and Biscuits

A classic Southern dish made by creating a rich and creamy gravy from the sausage drippings and pairing it with warm, flaky biscuits.

4. Sausage Breakfast Tacos

Cook the sausage and fill warm tortillas with eggs, cheese, and your favorite salsa for a delicious and portable breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What Makes Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage So Special?

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage stands out because of its high-quality ingredients and unique blend of spices. It’s a flavorful, savory addition to any breakfast, and the different options (links, patties, and crumbles) make it easy to incorporate into various dishes.

2. Can I Make a Healthier Version of Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage?

Yes, you can make a leaner version by substituting ground turkey or chicken for the pork. This reduces the fat content while still providing the savory flavor that breakfast sausage is known for.

3. Can I Freeze Homemade Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage?

Yes! Once you’ve made the sausage, you can freeze it in individual patties or crumbles. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

4. How Can I Store Leftover Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage?

Store leftover cooked sausage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to store it for a longer period, freezing is a better option.

5. Can I Use Jimmy Dean Sausage for Other Meals Besides Breakfast?

Definitely! While it’s a breakfast staple, Jimmy Dean sausage can also be used in lunch or dinner recipes, such as in pasta sauces, casseroles, or stuffed peppers.

Conclusion

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that adds a savory touch to any meal. With its rich spices and juicy pork, it has earned its place in kitchens across the country. By making this recipe at home, you can enjoy the bold flavors of Jimmy Dean sausage while also experimenting with different variations to suit your taste. Whether you make patties, crumbles, or links, this homemade version will bring the same satisfying breakfast experience to your table. Plus, with the tips and recipe ideas provided, you’ll be able to enjoy sausage in a variety of creative ways.

Enjoy cooking your homemade Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage, and don’t forget to share these delicious recipes with your family and friends!