If you’re looking for a way to elevate your weekend mornings—or really, any day you want breakfast to be a little special—this Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage is about to make you a true breakfast hero. These homemade patties are juicy, herby, just a bit sweet with crisp apple, and bursting with savory sage. Everything comes together quickly in one bowl, giving you a fresh and wholesome take on classic breakfast sausage that puts anything store-bought to shame. Trust me, one bite and you’ll never look at breakfast sausage the same way again!

Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays a starring role in the symphony of flavors and aromas that define this Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage. Sourcing good-quality ground pork and fresh sage makes all the difference, while the apple adds natural sweetness and juiciness that sets these patties apart.

Ground pork (1 lb): The juicy, flavorful base for your homemade patties—look for pork with a little fat for the most luscious results.
Apple, peeled and finely grated (1 small, such as Fuji or Gala): Adds lovely moisture and a gentle sweetness to every bite.
Fresh sage, finely chopped (1 tbsp) or dried sage (1 tsp): Sage is what gives the sausage its signature aromatic, woodsy punch.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for seasoning and drawing out all the natural flavors.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Brings a gentle warmth and balances the sweetness of the apple.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): For those who like a light kick; adjust or omit to taste.
Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): Enhances umami depth without overpowering the other flavors.
Onion powder (1/4 tsp): Gives extra savory backbone and rounds everything out.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Adds subtle warmth and a whiff of nostalgia to the mix.
Maple syrup or brown sugar (1 tsp, optional): For a touch more sweetness, especially delicious with tart apples!
Olive oil or butter (1 tbsp): For browning the patties, which adds rich, irresistible flavor.

How to Make Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage

Step 1: Mix the Sausage Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, grated apple, sage, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, and the maple syrup or brown sugar if you’re in the mood for a touch of sweetness. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to gently blend everything together just until evenly combined—overmixing can make the patties a bit tough, so go easy. You want that apple and sage to be harmoniously distributed throughout the sausage mixture.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Divide your sausage mixture into 8 equal portions. Take each portion and shape it into a patty about half an inch thick. These cook up quickly and evenly, and the smaller size makes them perfect for stacking into breakfast sandwiches or serving on their own.

Step 3: Cook Until Gorgeous and Golden

Heat your favorite skillet—cast iron works wonders here—over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter. Once it’s shimmering, gently lay in the sausage patties. Give them about 3–4 minutes per side, flipping once, until they’re browned on the outside and cooked through to a safe 160°F internally. The scent of sage and apple sizzling away is pure morning magic!

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Let your Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage patties rest for a minute or two right after cooking. This quick rest keeps them extra juicy and makes their flavors even more pronounced. Now you’re ready to plate and serve, or tuck them into your favorite breakfast creations.

How to Serve Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage

Garnishes

Take your Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage to the next level by finishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped sage or parsley over the top. A light drizzle of warm maple syrup can turn your plate into a diner-worthy treat, and don’t underestimate a squiggle of Dijon mustard for an unexpected zing.

Side Dishes

These sausage patties are perfect alongside classic scrambled eggs, buttery toast, and crispy hash browns. They’re also wonderful nestled into a breakfast sandwich with English muffins and a slice of aged cheddar, or paired with roasted sweet potatoes to fuel your morning the wholesome way.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cooked patties into halves or quarters and tossing them into a breakfast burrito, or lay them atop a stack of pancakes for a sweet-savory twist. For brunch impressiveness, serve them on mini biscuits with apple butter or make an open-faced tartine topped with sausage, soft-cooked eggs, and microgreens.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage stores beautifully—simply let any extras cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They’ll happily keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, ready to rescue any busy morning.

Freezing

If you’d like to have these sausages on hand any time, place cooled patties in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen sausage patties keep their full flavor for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the patties gently in a skillet over low heat, or microwave at half-power in 30-second bursts until heated through. If reheating from frozen, a few extra minutes in the covered skillet will do the trick—just add a splash of water to keep them moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work well and offer a leaner alternative to pork; just be sure you don’t overcook, as lean meats dry out more quickly.

What kind of apple works best?

Sweet apples like Fuji or Gala lend gentle fruitiness, but if you prefer a tangier bite, Granny Smith apples also make a fantastic, slightly tart option.

How can I make this recipe Paleo or Whole30 friendly?

Just skip the maple syrup or brown sugar and ensure your sausage is 100 percent compliant with your dietary needs. The Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage is still naturally gluten and dairy free!

Do I have to use fresh sage?

Fresh sage gives the brightest flavor, but dried sage works in a pinch—use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more potent by weight.

Is it possible to prep these sausage patties the night before?

Yes, you can mix and shape the patties, then cover and refrigerate overnight. In fact, letting the sausage rest lets those flavors mingle even more fully!

Final Thoughts

Breakfast should never be boring, and this Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage delivers all the flavor and comfort your taste buds crave, right from your own kitchen. Give this recipe a go—you’ll be amazed by just how easy (and impressive) homemade sausage can be!

Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage Recipe

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4.7 from 19 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 8 patties 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast sausage with these Apple Sage Breakfast Sausage patties. Made with ground pork, fresh apple, and aromatic sage, these homemade sausages are perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 lb ground pork
1 small apple (such as Fuji or Gala), peeled and finely grated
1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon maple syrup or brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for cooking)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, grated apple, sage, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, and maple syrup or brown sugar if using.
Mix gently until all ingredients are fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and form into patties.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter.
Cook the sausage patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F).
Remove from pan and let rest for a minute before serving.