Description
Learn how to achieve perfectly cooked breakfast sausage with this simple pan-frying method! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in minutes, this recipe guarantees a delicious start to your day. A classic and foolproof technique for cooking your favorite breakfast sausage.
Ingredients
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1 pound (454g) breakfast sausage links or patties (fresh or thawed)
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1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter
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1/4 cup water (optional, for steaming)
Instructions
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If using frozen sausage, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave.
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Pat the sausage dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear.
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Heat the oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the sausage to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd. Cook in batches if necessary.
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(Optional – For extra juicy sausage): Add 1/4 cup water to the skillet. Cover and let steam for about 5 minutes. Remove the lid and continue cooking.
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Cook the sausage, turning frequently, until browned on all sides and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). This usually takes 8-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sausage.
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Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
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Remove the sausage from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Variations: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet for a spicy kick. A sprig of fresh thyme or a clove of garlic can infuse the sausage with added flavor.
Tips: Starting with a cold skillet can help render the fat slowly for more even cooking. Don’t prick the sausage, as this will release the juices and result in a dry product.
Intolerances/Allergies: Most breakfast sausages contain gluten. Check the ingredient list to avoid if needed.
Taste Preferences: Adjust cooking time based on your desired level of crispness. For a milder flavor, choose breakfast sausage made with leaner meats, or chicken/turkey alternatives.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approx. 3-4 links or 2 patties)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: breakfast sausage, sausage, pan fried sausage, how to cook sausage, easy breakfast, breakfast recipe, meat, breakfast meat