Homemade Pork and Apple Breakfast Sausage Patties: A Wholesome and Flavorful Start to Your Day

Tired of bland, store-bought breakfast sausages filled with questionable ingredients? Imagine starting your day with juicy, flavorful homemade sausage patties that are not only incredibly easy to make but also packed with wholesome goodness. These homemade pork and apple breakfast sausage patties are a game-changer. Crafted with lean ground pork, the sweet-tart essence of Granny Smith apples, and a perfect blend of aromatic spices like sage, they offer a burst of flavor that will elevate any breakfast. Forget complicated recipes; this is about simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious and satisfying.

Delicious for Everyone: Not Just A Whole30 Recipe

While these sausage patties proudly fit within the strict guidelines of a Whole30 meal plan, don’t let that label fool you into thinking they’re just for dieters. These aren’t just “Whole30 sausage patties”; they are simply phenomenal breakfast sausages that anyone will adore. If you’re seeking a tasty pork and apple sausage recipe that bypasses all the artificial additives, preservatives, and mystery ingredients often found in supermarket versions, then you’ve found your perfect match. Their natural flavors and hearty texture make them a superior choice for any breakfast spread, whether you’re consciously avoiding certain foods or simply craving a healthier, more flavorful option.

The inspiration for this delightful recipe originally came from Melissa Hartwig Urban’s cookbook, Whole30 Fast & Easy. Her pork and apple meatballs served over spaghetti squash sparked the idea, and after savoring their unique flavor profile, I realized they would translate beautifully into a breakfast sausage format. A few adjustments and tweaks later, these breakfast sausage patties were born, delivering an absolutely delicious and truly versatile dish.

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage Patties

There are countless reasons to fall in love with making your own breakfast sausage at home:

Effortlessly Simple to Make: I often emphasize simplicity in my recipes, and this one truly lives up to that promise. My philosophy is that delicious food shouldn’t be complicated. The process for these sausage patties is remarkably straightforward, mirroring the ease of preparing meatloaf, meatballs, or even burgers – you’re simply shaping the mixture differently. You can even cook them in your air fryer for minimal cleanup, making them perfect for busy mornings when time is of the essence.

Explosively Packed with Flavor: Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable experience. The harmonious blend of savory ground pork, finely grated tart apple, and aromatic yellow onion infused with earthy sage creates a rich and complex flavor profile. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of savory and a subtle hint of natural sweetness. These patties are expertly seasoned, resulting in a taste that far surpasses anything you’ll find in the grocery store aisle. The fresh ingredients truly make a difference!

Conveniently Freezer-Friendly: One of the greatest advantages of making these homemade breakfast sausages is their incredible meal prep potential. Whip up a large batch, freeze the patties individually, and you’ll have quick, easy, and healthy breakfasts ready to go throughout the week. This is an absolute lifesaver for hectic mornings when you need a nutritious meal without any fuss. Simply grab, reheat, and enjoy!

Whole30 Compliant, Without the Premium Price Tag: If you’re familiar with the Whole30 program, you know that finding compliant sausage can be a challenge – and often comes with a hefty price tag. This recipe offers an ingenious solution. Not only are these patties simple to prepare, but you also have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring they meet your dietary needs without breaking the bank. It’s a cost-effective and delicious way to enjoy Whole30-approved breakfast sausage.

Essential Ingredient Notes for Perfect Patties

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture:

• Ground Pork: The foundation of these patties, ground pork, contributes significantly to their rich flavor, tender texture, and satisfying moisture. For a leaner option, we’ve also successfully tested this recipe with ground turkey and ground chicken, both yielding excellent results, though pork remains our top choice for its unparalleled juiciness. When selecting pork, consider a mix that offers a good fat-to-meat ratio for optimal flavor and tenderness.
• Yellow Onion: Yellow onions are prized for their versatility and ability to store well. In this recipe, their fine grain and pungent yet sweet flavor are ideal. Shredding the onion on a box grater or mincing it very finely is key; this ensures that the onion bits are evenly distributed throughout the patty, integrating seamlessly without creating large, crunchy pieces. This method also helps release the flavorful juices, which are vital for moisture and taste.
• Granny Smith Apple: You’ll need one medium-sized Granny Smith apple for this recipe. Their distinct tartness provides a fantastic contrast to the savory pork and sage, adding a refreshing note and natural sweetness without being overpowering. Shredding the apple using a box grater is recommended. While the peel can be left on if you prefer, as it becomes nearly undetectable after cooking, you might choose to peel it if the apple is heavily waxed. Remember to preserve any juices released during shredding, as they are a hidden flavor enhancer.
• Seasonings: The classic flavor profile of breakfast sausage is built on a precise combination of seasonings. We use kosher salt for balanced salinity, dried rubbed sage for its earthy and slightly peppery aroma, and coarse ground black pepper for a subtle kick. One of the benefits of homemade sausage is the ability to control the salt content, using far less than most commercially produced varieties, resulting in a healthier, more palatable patty.
• Oil or Ghee: A small amount of oil or ghee is generally necessary for frying the sausage patties to achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust and prevent sticking. While a high-quality nonstick skillet might reduce the need for oil, a little fat helps in developing that irresistible exterior char and contributes to the overall richness. Opt for an oil with a high smoke point, like avocado oil, or use ghee for a buttery, nutty flavor that complements the pork and apple beautifully.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Homemade Breakfast Sausage Patties

Making these delicious patties is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these easy steps for perfect results every time:

1. Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, the shredded onion and apple (along with all their valuable juices), kosher salt, dried rubbed sage, and coarse ground black pepper. Using clean hands is the most effective method for this step. Gently mix the ingredients just until they are thoroughly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher patties. The goal is to ensure all the seasonings are evenly distributed without compacting the meat.

2. Form the Patties: Divide the meat mixture evenly into 6 portions. Using your hands, gently pat and shape each portion into small, round patties, approximately 4 inches in diameter and about half an inch thick. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Forming them on a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper can make cleanup significantly easier and prevent sticking.

3. Cook the Sausage: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-low to medium heat. Once hot, add the oil or ghee. Carefully place the sausage patties into the hot skillet. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the patties in batches. Crowding the pan can lower the temperature and cause the patties to steam rather than properly brown, preventing that desirable crispy exterior. Cook the patties for approximately 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until they are beautifully browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you notice them browning too quickly, simply reduce the heat slightly to ensure they cook through without burning.

4. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, transfer the breakfast sausage patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease, if desired. Serve them hot and enjoy the incredible flavors of your homemade creation!

Easy Recipe Variations to Customize Your Sausage

These breakfast sausage patties are wonderfully versatile. Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste and convenience:

• Cook Them in the Air Fryer: For an even easier cleanup and perfectly crispy patties, try cooking them in your air fryer! Simply preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the prepared patties for about 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Depending on the size of your air fryer basket, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure even browning and crispness. This method results in beautifully browned sausages without any stovetop mess.
• Experiment with Different Meats: While ground pork is our preferred choice for its rich flavor and moist texture, this recipe is incredibly adaptable to other ground meats. We’ve successfully tested it with both ground chicken and ground turkey, confirming that they also work well. Keep in mind that ground chicken tends to be a bit juicier and softer, making it slightly more delicate to handle during patty formation. Ground turkey, being very lean, might result in a slightly drier texture, but thanks to the apple, onion, and seasonings, all versions remain deliciously flavorful.
• Prepare Ahead for Easy Meals: To make your busy mornings even smoother, consider making a double or triple batch of these breakfast sausage patties. They freeze exceptionally well, offering a convenient solution for quick and healthy breakfasts throughout the week. Having a stash of these ready-to-go patties in your freezer is a true time-saver!
• Tailor the Seasonings: The beauty of homemade food is the ability to adjust flavors to your preference. For an added layer of complexity, a hint of smoked paprika would be a delightful addition to the spice blend. Alternatively, you could swap out the sage for other complementary herbs like fresh or dried rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic profile. Feel free to get creative with your spice cabinet!
• Spice Things Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat to kickstart your day, it’s easy to make these patties spicy. Simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture. Start with a small amount and taste a tiny cooked portion to adjust the heat level to your liking.

What’s For Breakfast? Perfect Pairing Suggestions

These homemade breakfast sausage patties are a versatile addition to almost any breakfast or brunch menu. Here are some delicious ideas to complete your meal:

• Eggs, Any Style: A classic and unbeatable combination! Eggs and sausage are a match made in breakfast heaven. Serve them alongside scrambled, fried, or poached eggs. For a more sophisticated touch, try this egg white frittata with green chiles or fluffy cottage cheese eggs for a protein-packed meal.
• Hearty Breakfast Sandwiches: These patties are perfectly sized for building amazing breakfast sandwiches. Cook up some sheet pan eggs, cut them into squares, add a sausage patty and a slice of your favorite cheese, then serve on toasted English muffins, bagels, or even between slices of avocado for a low-carb option.
• Crispy Breakfast Potatoes: No breakfast is complete without a side of potatoes! Our air fryer hash browns are blissfully crispy and make an ideal accompaniment to the savory sausage and eggs. You could also serve them with roasted breakfast potatoes or home fries.
• Sweet and Savory Combinations: The savory flavor of these sausage patties provides a wonderful counterbalance to sweeter breakfast choices. Serve them alongside homemade French toast, fluffy sweet cream pancakes, or golden waffles for a complete and satisfying meal that hits all the right notes.
• Other Wholesome Breakfast Foods: If you’re looking for something different, consider pairing your sausage patties with this comforting baked oatmeal for a nutritious and filling meal. A side of fresh fruit or a green smoothie would also complement the richness of the sausage beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Making a batch of these homemade sausage patties means you’ll have delicious options ready for future meals. Proper storage and reheating will ensure they remain fresh and flavorful:

Refrigerate: Cooked breakfast sausage patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure they cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freeze: These patties are excellent for freezing, either raw or cooked, making them ideal for meal prep. To freeze, separate individual patties with squares of wax or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. Then, place them in a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. If freezing raw patties, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before cooking according to the original instructions. Cooked frozen patties can be reheated directly from frozen.

Reheat: To reheat frozen (and previously cooked) sausage patties, you can microwave them for 1 to 2 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through. Alternatively, for a crisper result, cook them in a skillet set over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until hot. If reheating patties from the refrigerator, use the same methods but adjust the cooking time down, as they will require slightly less time to heat through.

Recipe

Homemade Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage Patties

Rated 4.86 out of 5 stars from 7 votes

By

Rachel Gurk

Prep Time:

15 mins

Cook Time:

10 mins

Total Time:

25 mins

Servings:
6

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These homemade breakfast sausage patties are flavorful and easy to make. You’ll be so happy to know exactly what’s going into your breakfast sausage!

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Ingredients

• 16 oz. ground pork (see note)
• ½ cup shredded Granny Smith apple (about 1 medium apple)
• ¼ cup shredded or finely minced onion (about 1 small yellow onion)
• ¾ teaspoon dried rubbed sage
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons oil or ghee, for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, lightly mix ground pork, apple, onion, sage, salt, and pepper just until combined.
   16 oz. ground pork, ½ cup shredded Granny Smith apple, ¼ cup shredded or finely minced onion, ¾ teaspoon dried rubbed sage, ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
2. Form into 6 thin patties, about 4 inches in diameter.
3. Preheat a large nonstick skillet over medium to medium-low heat. Add oil (or ghee) and sausage patties. Cook the sausages in batches if necessary. Fry sausage patties for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through cook time. Sausages should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If they’re browning too quickly on the outside, turn heat down to medium low.
   2 teaspoons oil or ghee, for frying
4. If desired, place on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up excess grease before serving.

Notes

• Meat choices: We tested the sausages with ground pork, ground chicken, and ground turkey. They all work well so use whatever you like! The pork sausages are the most moist and flavorful, and we prefer them, but they are all tasty thanks to the apple, onion, and seasonings.
• Cooking note: All sausages should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. We found that the chicken and turkey sausages take a bit longer to cook than the pork sausages.
• Air fryer method: Prepare patties as directed. Cook in an air fryer at 400ºF (200°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time. You’ll probably have to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Apple note: We like the flavor and texture of Granny Smith apples in the sausages but feel free to experiment with different varieties. When you shred the apple using a box grater, most of the peel stays outside the grater. Any peel that makes it into the sausage is not noticeable but if you prefer to peel the apple first, you may do so.
• Recipe retested and revised 1/2025.

Video

A video demonstration of this recipe is available!

Nutrition

Serving: 1sausage patty
,

Calories: 219kcal
,

Carbohydrates: 2g
,

Protein: 13g
,

Fat: 17g
,

Saturated Fat: 6g
,

Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
,

Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
,

Trans Fat: 0.01g
,

Cholesterol: 54mg
,

Sodium: 333mg
,

Potassium: 239mg
,

Fiber: 0.4g
,

Sugar: 1g
,

Vitamin A: 12IU
,

Vitamin C: 2mg
,

Calcium: 13mg
,

Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

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