If you’re looking for a healthier way to incorporate protein into your breakfast without relying on processed meats, these homemade turkey breakfast sausage patties are for you! They’re made with just a handful of spices, packed with flavor, and contain no added sugar.
Turkey Breakfast Sausage: Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavor
The secret to a great breakfast sausage—whether it’s pork, turkey, or chicken—isn't a long list of processed ingredients; it's the right balance of savory and earthy spices. Plus, making turkey breakfast sausage at home couldn’t be easier! You not only get to control the quality of the meat and the intensity of the seasoning, but you also get to see them come together from start to finish in less than 25 minutes.
This homemade version is made without any added sugar, but of course, if you prefer a bit of sweetness, you can always add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the mixture! We often rotate between this recipe and my chicken breakfast sausage on Sundays for meal prep; it makes enough to last through the week and maintains great flavor.
Ingredients & Notes
- Ground Turkey: For the best results, I recommend using 93% lean ground turkey. This ratio provides just enough fat to keep the patties moist and juicy without being overly greasy.
- Oil: A splash of olive oil will help sear these patties.
- Spices: This recipe uses a carefully balanced blend of dried thyme, ground fennel, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. The fennel and thyme are the keys to that classic breakfast sausage flavor, while the red pepper flakes provide a hint of warmth, and the nutmeg adds a touch of subtle sweetness.
Find the printable recipe card with full instructions and measurements below.
How to Make Turkey Breakfast Sausage
Step 1: Combine the ingredients. In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey with the spice blend until well combined and the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Step 2: Shape & Chill: Divide the mixture into 12 round balls, then gently press down to flatten into patties. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 10 minutes; this helps them hold their shape perfectly during cooking.
Step 3: Sear to Perfection. Heat your oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, add the patties to the pan. Sear for 2–3 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 1–2 minutes until golden-brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4: Serve: Transfer the cooked turkey sausage to a plate and serve.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator: Store the cooked sausages in an airtight container for 4–5 days.
Freezer: Once fully cooled, place the turkey patties in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. I recommend placing a small piece of parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For a fast, convenient breakfast, simply microwave the patties for 15 to 30 seconds or until warmed through.
More Gluten-Free Breakfast Ideas
- Gluten-Free Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
- Gluten-Free Pancakes
- Gluten-Free Biscuits and Gravy
- Gluten-Free Salmon Cakes (high protein)
- Chicken Breakfast Sausage (high protein)
I hope you love this turkey breakfast sausage recipe as much as I do! If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your review will help other readers in the community.
Recipe
Homemade Turkey Breakfast Sausage Patties
Ingredients
For Turkey Breakfast Sausage
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground fennel
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
For Frying
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Combine the turkey and spices. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground turkey, dried thyme, ground fennel, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and ground nutmeg. Use a spoon to stir the mixture until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.Pro-Tip: Try not to overwork the meat; mixing just until combined ensures the sausages stay tender rather than becoming dense.
- Shape and Chill. Use a food scale to divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (approximately 38 grams per patty). Roll each portion into a smooth ball between your palms, then gently press down to flatten it into a uniform disc. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes; this ensures they stay together and cook up beautifully!
- Cook the sausages. Heat half a tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear six patties for 2 to 3 minutes, then flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until golden-brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Repeat the process with the remaining patties, adding more oil if necessary.
- Serve. Once the turkey sausages are fully cooked, transfer them to a plate and serve.
Chris says
Delicious! Easy to make, healthy breakfast.