Why Make Homemade Breakfast Sausages?

There’s something special about creating a meal from scratch, especially when it comes to breakfast sausages. These Paleo Maple Apple Chicken Breakfast Sausages are simply delightful! Every bite is a flavor explosion that far surpasses anything you might find in a restaurant.

What’s even better? They’re crafted with only six wholesome ingredients, plus a custom seasoning blend that’ll make your taste buds sing!

When you opt for store-bought sausages, you often have no idea what kind of ingredients you’re getting, especially when it comes to their quality. Many mass-produced options rely on non-organic meats and unhealthy vegetable oils, which can be detrimental to your health.

The Joy of Making Breakfast Sausages at Home

One of the biggest advantages of preparing breakfast sausages at home is the control you have over the ingredients. You get to choose high-quality meat – look for organic or pastured options, and if possible, support local farmers!

Additionally, you can select healthier fats for cooking. For these irresistible sausage patties, I suggest using a combination of grass-fed ghee or butter with a splash of avocado oil. However, sticking with just one type of healthy fat works just as beautifully!

The flavor of these sausages is exceptional! Infused with the sweetness of apples and a blend of delightful seasonings, they make for a perfect addition to your breakfast, lunch, or even dinner. Pair them with eggs, roasted veggies, pancakes, muffins, or even enjoy them on their own!

Whether you plan to enjoy them on a special weekend morning or prepare batches in advance for easy weeknight meals, these protein-rich breakfast sausages can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken (about 1 pound)
• 1 tablespoon homemade breakfast sausage seasoning
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 medium apple, diced (such as Granny Smith)
• Healthy fats for cooking (like ghee, butter, or avocado oil)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, garlic, homemade breakfast sausage seasoning, and maple syrup. Mix well using clean hands or a fork. Gently fold in the diced apples to the mixture.

2. Prepare the Cooking Surface

   Preheat a large skillet or pan over medium heat, adding your choice of healthy fat (or a combination of ghee/butter and avocado oil) for 1-2 minutes. If your skillet is smaller, you may need to work in batches.

3. Shape and Cook the Patties

   Form the chicken mixture into small patties. If your pan doesn’t fit all the sausages at once, keep the un-cooked ones on a plate. Place the patties in the pan and let them cook until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked, approximately 12-15 minutes depending on thickness. To keep them from burning, add a splash of broth or water halfway through cooking, just before flipping.

   Note: Be careful not to crowd the patties – giving them space ensures even cooking.

Notes

Tip: You’ll need a cutting board, a knife, and a large mixing bowl. A Microplane grater is also helpful for the garlic, but it’s optional.

Whole30® or No Sugar Version: Just skip the maple syrup for a compliant recipe.

Storage Instructions: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze the cooked sausages in freezer-safe containers for up to one month.

Reheating Instructions: To enjoy your sausages again, preheat the oven to 325°F. Place them on a warming tray or baking pan for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

This recipe is easily double-able!

FAQ

1. How do I store the sausages?

You can store cooked sausages in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for up to a month.

2. Can I make this recipe without apples?

Absolutely! You can omit the apples or replace them with another fruit or vegetable such as shredded zucchini or carrots for a different twist.

3. What can I serve with the breakfast sausages?

These sausages pair wonderfully with scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, or even pancakes and waffles for a balanced breakfast.

4. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! While the recipe calls for ground chicken, you can use ground turkey or lean pork for a different flavor profile.

5. How do I know when the sausages are fully cooked?

The sausages are done when they are golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.