Turkey Sausage Patties Recipe

Let me tell you, mornings in our house can be a bit chaotic. Between getting the kids ready for school and trying to squeeze in a quick workout, breakfast often gets relegated to a grab-and-go affair. But, I’ve always believed that starting the day with a nutritious and satisfying meal sets a positive tone for everything that follows. That’s why I was on a mission to find a breakfast option that was both healthy and delicious, and wouldn’t add to the morning mayhem. Enter these incredible Turkey Sausage Patties. Honestly, from the first bite, my family was hooked. Even my pickiest eater, who usually shies away from anything remotely “healthy,” devoured them! The subtle sweetness of maple syrup, combined with the savory warmth of herbs and spices, transforms lean ground turkey into something truly special. What I love most is that they are incredibly easy to make, taking just minutes to prep and cook. Whether you’re following a Weight Watchers plan, trying to eat cleaner, or simply want a flavorful and protein-packed breakfast, these turkey sausage patties are a game-changer. They’ve become a weekly staple in our home, and I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy them too!

Ingredients for Delicious Homemade Turkey Sausage Patties

Creating flavorful and healthy turkey sausage patties at home is easier than you might think! This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver a breakfast that’s both satisfying and guilt-free. We’ve carefully selected each ingredient not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits, ensuring you’re starting your day right. Lean ground turkey provides a fantastic source of protein, while the blend of spices and a touch of maple syrup elevates the flavor profile to rival any store-bought sausage – without the added preservatives and unwanted fats. Below, you’ll find the ingredient list, conveniently scaled for 1x, 2x, and 3x batches, so you can easily make enough for a single breakfast or meal prep for the week ahead.

Ingredients

Ingredient	1x (Servings: 6)	2x (Servings: 12)	3x (Servings: 18)
▢ Ground Turkey (99% lean, raw)	1 lb	2 lbs	3 lbs
▢ Maple Syrup	1/2 Tbsp	1 Tbsp	1.5 Tbsp
▢ Salt	1/2 tsp	1 tsp	1.5 tsp
▢ Pepper	1 tsp	2 tsp	3 tsp
▢ Garlic, diced	1 clove	2 cloves	3 cloves
▢ Thyme	1 tsp	2 tsp	3 tsp
▢ Sage	1 tsp	2 tsp	3 tsp
▢ Fennel Seeds	1.5 tsp	3 tsp	4.5 tsp
▢ Onion Salt	1/2 tsp	1 tsp	1.5 tsp
▢ Garlic Powder	1/4 tsp	1/2 tsp	3/4 tsp
▢ Dried Oregano	1/2 tsp	1 tsp	1.5 tsp

Let’s delve deeper into each ingredient and why it plays a crucial role in these delicious turkey sausage patties:

• Ground Turkey (99% Lean): The star of the show! Opting for 99% lean ground turkey is key for keeping these patties healthy and low in fat. It’s a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and satiety. Don’t worry about it being bland – the spices will infuse it with incredible flavor. If you can’t find 99% lean, you can use 93% lean, but be mindful that the Weight Watchers points and nutritional information may slightly vary.
• Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener adds a touch of subtle sweetness that beautifully balances the savory spices. Just a half tablespoon per pound of turkey is enough to enhance the flavor without making the patties overly sweet. Pure maple syrup is preferred for its rich flavor and natural source. You can use sugar-free maple syrup alternatives if you are strictly minimizing sugar intake, but be aware that the flavor profile might be slightly different.
• Salt: Salt is a flavor enhancer and is crucial for bringing out the best in all the other ingredients. It helps to season the turkey and balance the sweetness of the maple syrup. We recommend using regular table salt, but you can also use sea salt or kosher salt. If using kosher salt, you might need to use slightly more as it is less dense than table salt.
• Pepper: Black pepper adds a gentle warmth and spice to the patties. Freshly ground black pepper is always best for the most vibrant flavor, but pre-ground pepper works perfectly well too. You can adjust the amount of pepper to your preference – if you like a bit more heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes as well.
• Garlic, Diced: Fresh garlic is a powerhouse of flavor! It adds a pungent and savory note that is essential for a classic sausage taste. Make sure to dice the garlic finely so it distributes evenly throughout the turkey mixture. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor.
• Thyme: Thyme is an aromatic herb with a slightly earthy and minty flavor. It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the sausage patties and complements the other herbs beautifully. Dried thyme is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe.
• Sage: Sage is a classic sausage herb, known for its slightly peppery and earthy taste. It provides a quintessential savory note that is characteristic of sausage. Dried sage is readily available and provides a concentrated flavor.
• Fennel Seeds: Fennel seeds are a secret weapon in sausage making! They have a mild licorice-like flavor that adds a unique and complex dimension to the patties. Slightly crushing the fennel seeds before adding them to the mixture can help release their aroma and flavor even more.
• Onion Salt: Onion salt combines the savory flavor of onion with the seasoning power of salt. It adds another layer of savory depth and enhances the overall flavor profile. If you don’t have onion salt, you can use a pinch of onion powder and adjust the regular salt accordingly.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a more subtle garlic flavor compared to fresh garlic, and it helps to round out the overall spice blend. It complements the fresh garlic and ensures a consistent garlic flavor throughout the patties.
• Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a slightly peppery and slightly bitter note, contributing to the overall savory and herbaceous flavor of the sausage. Dried oregano is perfect for this recipe and adds a Mediterranean touch to the spice blend.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Turkey Sausage Patties

Making these turkey sausage patties is incredibly straightforward, even for beginner cooks! The simple steps ensure you’ll have flavorful, healthy patties ready in minutes. For the best flavor, we highly recommend preparing the mixture the night before and letting it rest in the refrigerator. This allows the spices to fully infuse the turkey, resulting in a more robust and delicious sausage. However, if you’re short on time, you can absolutely cook them right away – they’ll still be fantastic! Follow these easy steps for perfectly cooked turkey sausage patties every time.

Instructions

1. Spice Infusion (Optional but Recommended): If you have time, prepare the turkey mixture the night before. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more flavorful sausage patty. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the 1 lb of 99% lean ground turkey, ½ Tbsp maple syrup, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp pepper, 1 diced clove of garlic, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp sage, 1.5 tsp fennel seeds, ½ tsp onion salt, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp dried oregano.
   • Tip for Mixing: Use your hands to gently mix all the ingredients together. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the turkey patties tough. Mix just until everything is evenly combined.
   • Overnight Flavor Boost: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 2 hours if you are short on time). This resting period is key for maximizing flavor, but it’s not essential if you’re in a rush.
2. Patty Formation: Divide the turkey mixture into 6 equal portions, approximately 3 oz each. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick. You can make them slightly thinner or thicker depending on your preference, but keep in mind that cooking time will vary.
   • Tip for Uniform Patties: For consistently sized patties, you can use a kitchen scale to weigh each portion. This ensures even cooking and consistent servings.
   • Refrigerator Storage (Optional): Place the formed patties in a sealed container, separating layers with parchment paper if stacking, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This is particularly helpful if you made the mixture ahead of time.
3. Pan-Frying: Heat a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents the patties from sticking and reduces the need for excessive oil.
   • Tip for Non-Stick Cooking: Ensure your pan is properly heated before adding the patties. A hot pan will help sear the outside and prevent sticking.
   • Cooking in Batches: Depending on the size of your pan, you may need to cook the patties in batches of 3 to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the pan temperature and lead to steaming instead of searing.
4. Cooking Time & Flipping: Carefully place 3 patties (or as many as fit comfortably without touching) into the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the patties are cooked through and nicely browned. Flip the patties gently with a spatula after 3-4 minutes and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
   • Doneness Check: Turkey sausage patties are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
   • Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your patties and the heat of your pan. Thinner patties will cook faster, while thicker patties may require a little longer. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through without burning.
5. Air Frying (Alternative Cooking Method): For a slightly different texture and potentially quicker cooking, you can air fry the patties. Line your air fryer basket with a liner (parchment paper or air fryer liners) for easy cleanup. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   • Air Fryer Placement: Place the patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
   • Air Frying Time: Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the patties are cooked through and golden brown. Air fryers vary, so check for doneness around 8 minutes and adjust time as needed.
6. Serving: Once cooked through, remove the turkey sausage patties from the pan or air fryer. Serve them warm immediately and enjoy!
   • Resting Time (Optional): While not essential for turkey sausage patties, you can let them rest for a minute or two after cooking before serving. This can help redistribute the juices and make them even more tender.
   • Serving Suggestions: These patties are incredibly versatile! Serve them as part of a hearty breakfast, in breakfast sandwiches, alongside eggs, or even as a lean protein option for lunch or dinner. See our “How to Serve” section below for more creative serving ideas!

Nutritional Information for Turkey Sausage Patties

These Turkey Sausage Patties are not only delicious but also a healthy choice! Made with lean ground turkey and a blend of flavorful spices, they are a great source of protein and low in fat. Perfect for those watching their calorie intake, following a Weight Watchers plan, or simply seeking a nutritious and satisfying meal. Below is the approximate nutritional information per patty, based on the recipe as written. Please note that nutritional values can vary slightly based on specific ingredient brands and cooking methods.

Nutrition Facts (Per Patty – Servings: 6)

• Calories: Approximately 110-130 calories
• Protein: 20-22 grams
• Fat: 1-2 grams (primarily from naturally occurring fat in lean turkey)
• Saturated Fat: Less than 0.5 gram
• Cholesterol: Approximately 70-80 mg
• Sodium: Approximately 250-300 mg (can vary based on salt level)
• Carbohydrates: 1-2 grams (primarily from maple syrup)
• Fiber: Less than 1 gram
• Sugar: 1-2 grams (from maple syrup)

Weight Watchers Points (Per Patty):

• 0 WW Points (Blue & Purple Plans): Due to the lean protein and minimal fat content, these patties are incredibly Weight Watchers friendly on Blue and Purple plans.
• 1 SP (Green Plan): On the Green plan, each patty is approximately 1 SmartPoint.
• 0-2 PP (PointsPlus): Depending on the specific calculator, these patties typically range from 0-2 PointsPlus values.

Health Benefits of Turkey Sausage Patties:

• Lean Protein Source: High in protein, which is essential for muscle building, satiety, and overall health. Protein helps you feel fuller for longer, aiding in weight management.
• Low in Fat: Made with 99% lean ground turkey, these patties are significantly lower in fat compared to traditional pork sausage, making them a heart-healthy option.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: Packed with herbs and spices, these patties are incredibly flavorful, making healthy eating enjoyable and sustainable.
• Weight Watchers Friendly: With 0 WW points on Blue and Purple plans and low SmartPoints on Green, they are perfect for those following a Weight Watchers program.
• Versatile: Can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, making them a versatile and convenient meal option.

Quick and Easy Prep & Cook Time

One of the best things about these Turkey Sausage Patties is how quickly they come together! Perfect for busy mornings or when you need a healthy meal in a hurry. From start to finish, you’ll have delicious, homemade sausage patties on your table in under 20 minutes!

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • This includes the time it takes to gather your ingredients, measure out the spices, dice the garlic, and mix everything together. If you are making the mixture ahead of time, this is all the prep you need to do on cooking day!
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
  • Pan-frying typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side, totaling around 6-8 minutes per batch of 3 patties. If air frying, the cook time is slightly longer, around 8-12 minutes total.
• Total Time: 19 minutes
  • From start to finish, including both prep and cook time, you can have these flavorful and healthy turkey sausage patties ready to enjoy in just about 19 minutes! This makes them an ideal choice for quick breakfasts, brunches, or even a fast weeknight dinner.

Serving Suggestions for Your Turkey Sausage Patties

These versatile Turkey Sausage Patties are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary dishes! Whether you’re looking for a classic breakfast spread, a hearty brunch option, or a lean protein addition to lunch or dinner, these patties fit the bill. Here are some creative and delicious ways to serve your homemade turkey sausage:

• Classic Breakfast Platter:
  • Serve alongside scrambled, fried, or poached eggs.
  • Add a side of whole-wheat toast, English muffins, or biscuits.
  • Include fresh fruit like berries, melon, or sliced oranges for a balanced meal.
  • Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped chives for extra flavor and freshness.
• Breakfast Sandwiches & Wraps:
  • Nestle a patty between toasted English muffins, bagels, or croissants with a fried egg, cheese, and your favorite toppings like avocado or tomato.
  • Create healthy breakfast wraps by combining a patty with scrambled eggs, spinach, and salsa in a whole-wheat tortilla.
  • Use them in breakfast sliders on mini buns for a fun and bite-sized meal.
• Brunch Extravaganza:
  • Incorporate them into a brunch buffet with other breakfast favorites like pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
  • Serve them with a side of creamy grits or polenta for a Southern-inspired brunch.
  • Pair them with a fresh and vibrant salad like a spinach salad with berries and goat cheese for a lighter brunch option.
• Lunch & Dinner Options:
  • Crumble cooked patties and add them to pasta sauces or chili for extra protein and flavor.
  • Use them as a topping for homemade pizzas or flatbreads.
  • Serve them as a lean protein alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or sweet potatoes for a healthy and balanced dinner.
  • Create a “breakfast for dinner” meal and serve them with breakfast potatoes or hash browns and a side salad.
• Sauces & Condiments:
  • Enhance the flavor with your favorite condiments! Ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt with herbs all pair wonderfully.
  • Consider making a simple maple-mustard dipping sauce by combining maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and a touch of apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy complement.
  • Serve with a side of fruit salsa or chutney for a refreshing and flavorful contrast.

Expert Tips for the Best Turkey Sausage Patties

Want to take your turkey sausage patties to the next level? Here are five expert tips to ensure you achieve maximum flavor, perfect texture, and cooking success every time:

1. Spice It Up (or Down): Customize Your Spice Blend: While the provided spice blend is delicious, feel free to adjust it to your personal preferences! Love heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Prefer a sweeter sausage? Increase the maple syrup slightly. Experiment with other herbs and spices like smoked paprika, coriander, or even a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist. Don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor the spice blend to your liking!
2. Binder Boost: Add a Touch of Breadcrumbs or Egg (Optional): If you find your patties are a little crumbly, especially when using very lean ground turkey, consider adding a tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs (panko or regular) or a lightly beaten egg to the mixture. These act as binders and help the patties hold their shape better during cooking. However, be mindful that adding breadcrumbs or egg will slightly alter the nutritional profile and Weight Watchers points.
3. Cooking Method Matters: Pan-Fry, Air Fry, or Even Bake! While pan-frying and air frying are highlighted in the recipe, you can also bake these patties! Baking is a hands-off approach and can be great for larger batches. To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Experiment with different cooking methods to find your preferred texture and convenience.
4. Make-Ahead Marvel: Meal Prep for the Week! These turkey sausage patties are fantastic for meal prepping! Prepare a large batch on the weekend and store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave, oven, or air fryer, making them a quick and healthy breakfast or protein source throughout the week.
5. Freezer-Friendly Fantastic: Stock Up for Future Meals! Turkey sausage patties freeze exceptionally well! Cook a double or triple batch, let them cool completely, and then freeze them individually on a baking sheet until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply cook them in a pan, air fryer, or oven until heated through. This is a great way to always have a healthy and convenient breakfast option on hand.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Sausage Ingredients

Curious about ingredient substitutions or have questions about specific components of this turkey sausage recipe? We’ve compiled answers to some frequently asked questions to help you confidently make these delicious patties!

Q1: Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for ground turkey in this recipe. Opt for lean ground chicken (93% lean or leaner) to maintain a similar nutritional profile. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. Keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the fat content and consistency of the ground chicken.

Q2: I don’t have maple syrup. Can I use another sweetener?

A: Yes, you can use other sweeteners as a substitute for maple syrup. Honey, agave nectar, or even a sugar-free maple syrup alternative will work. Honey and agave will provide a slightly different flavor profile, while sugar-free maple syrup will maintain a similar sweetness without the added sugar. You can also use a very small amount of brown sugar or coconut sugar, but these will add a more noticeable sweetness.

Q3: What if I don’t have fennel seeds? Are they essential?

A: While fennel seeds are not absolutely essential, they contribute a unique and characteristic flavor to sausage. If you don’t have fennel seeds, you can still make delicious turkey sausage patties! You can try substituting with a pinch of anise seeds (use sparingly as they are stronger in flavor) or simply omit them and slightly increase the other spices, particularly the sage and thyme, to compensate for the missing flavor dimension.

Q4: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

A: Yes, you can definitely use fresh herbs! Fresh herbs often have a brighter and more vibrant flavor than dried herbs. If using fresh herbs, use approximately 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. For this recipe, you would use about 1 tablespoon each of fresh thyme and fresh sage, finely chopped.

Q5: Is onion salt necessary? Can I use onion powder instead?

A: Onion salt adds a combination of onion flavor and salt seasoning in one ingredient. If you don’t have onion salt, you can easily substitute with onion powder. Use approximately ½ teaspoon of onion powder and then adjust the regular salt in the recipe accordingly. You might need to slightly reduce the amount of regular salt you add since you are adding salt separately with the onion powder. Taste the mixture before forming patties and adjust seasoning as needed.

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