Turkey Sausage Recipe

Preparing turkey sausage at home is a wonderful way to make your meals healthier without sacrificing any of the juicy, savory flavors you love in traditional pork sausages. Homemade turkey sausage blends ground turkey, fresh herbs, and spices into a tasty, lean protein that you can customize to suit your preferences. Plus, making it yourself ensures you’re in complete control of what goes into your food, including the level of salt, the type of herbs, and the quality of the meat.

From morning breakfast sandwiches to hearty dinner entrées, turkey sausage is endlessly versatile. You can sauté it in a pan, grill it on your outdoor barbecue, bake it in the oven for fuss-free cooking, or even crumble it up for use in pasta sauces and casseroles. With a delicious burst of seasoning in each bite, this turkey sausage stands in seamlessly wherever you’d usually use pork sausage.

There are countless turkey sausage recipes out there, but the one we’re about to dive into features a balance of spices that create a warm, savory flavor. By mixing notes of garlic, onion, paprika, sage, thyme, and a hint of spice, we’ll create a sausage that feels comforting and satisfying, yet lighter than your typical sausage. If you’re looking for a recipe that fits well into a healthier lifestyle, homemade turkey sausage is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.

Throughout this guide, we’ll not only provide step-by-step instructions on how to make turkey sausage, but also tips on how to store it, suggestions for serving it, and ideas on how to tweak the recipe to match your personal taste. You’ll find that these homemade turkey sausages rival the best store-bought options, and you’ll have the added benefit of knowing exactly what’s in them. So, let’s jump in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When considering what makes this turkey sausage recipe so special, a few key points stand out:

1. Healthier Alternative: Turkey is known for being a lean protein. By choosing ground turkey, you reduce the amount of saturated fat found in traditional pork sausages while still enjoying a flavorful, meaty taste. This makes it ideal for those wanting to watch their fat intake or maintain a balanced diet. 
2. Flavorful Spice Blend: The seasoning mix in this recipe is what really takes turkey sausage to the next level. With a combination of dried herbs like thyme and sage, plus a pinch of paprika and chili flakes, you’ll discover a lovely depth of flavor with a subtle kick. This blend is designed to be easily customizable—if you prefer something bolder, feel free to add extra herbs or a dash of cayenne pepper.
3. Easily Customizable: You have complete control over your turkey sausage. Want it spicier? Add extra chili flakes. Looking for an herby profile? Experiment with rosemary or basil. Prefer a breakfast vibe? Try maple syrup or a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the recipe to your dietary preferences or flavor preferences.
4. Versatile in the Kitchen: Once you have these sausages on hand, you can incorporate them into numerous dishes. They’re delicious in classic breakfast pairings with scrambled eggs and toast, or you can slice them to top a homemade pizza. You can even crumble the sausage into pasta sauces, stir-fries, or casseroles—wherever you want an extra boost of savory protein.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: By making a batch of turkey sausages over the weekend, you can freeze or refrigerate them to enjoy throughout the week. This saves time on busy mornings or nights when you need a quick, healthy meal. Having a homemade protein option ready to go can make all the difference when it comes to sticking with healthy eating habits.
6. Perfect for Various Diets: This recipe is naturally lower in fat than many sausage alternatives, making it suitable for those following Weight Watchers, low-carb, or high-protein meal plans. It’s also gluten-free if you pay attention to the ingredients in your spices. As always, if you have specific dietary restrictions, double-check your labels.

Once you’ve tried these turkey sausages, you’ll understand exactly why people love them. They’re just as satisfying as a traditional sausage but leave you feeling lighter and more energized after your meal. Now that you know why this dish is such a win, let’s move on to the ingredients that make it happen.

If you’re a fan of protein-packed recipes, try our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps, another satisfying and nutritious dish.

Ingredients

The key to a tasty turkey sausage is balancing lean ground turkey with the right combination of seasoning. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the core ingredients, along with some optional add-ins and variations you can consider:

1. Ground Turkey (1 pound / ~450g)
   • Look for ground turkey with around 93% lean/7% fat or 90% lean/10% fat. This balance offers enough fat to keep the sausage moist and flavorful without too much excess. If you go too lean (like 99% lean), you might end up with a drier sausage.
2. Salt (1 teaspoon)
   • Essential for bringing out the flavors in your turkey sausage. Adjust based on your sodium preferences.
3. Freshly Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
   • Adds a gentle bite that complements the herbs. Using freshly ground black pepper can give a more robust flavor than pre-ground.
4. Paprika (1 teaspoon)
   • Provides a hint of smoky warmth. You can use sweet paprika, smoked paprika, or even hot paprika, depending on your flavor preferences.
5. Onion Powder (1 teaspoon)
   • Concentrates the aromatic onion flavor without adding moisture. You can use dried minced onions if you’d like a more pronounced texture.
6. Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)
   • A staple in most sausage recipes, garlic powder adds depth. Fresh garlic can be used if you prefer, but be mindful of its moisture content.
7. Dried Sage (1 teaspoon)
   • Sage is the herb that gives many sausages their characteristic savory flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with dried basil or thyme.
8. Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon)
   • Lends a subtle, herby note that pairs perfectly with the sage.
9. Chili Flakes or Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon)(optional)
   • If you like a little heat, chili flakes or red pepper flakes add the perfect spicy kick. Adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.
10. Fennel Seeds (¼ teaspoon)(optional)
    • Fennel seeds are often used in Italian sausages. They add a sweet, licorice-like undertone that many find appealing.
11. Olive Oil or Avocado Oil (1 tablespoon)(for cooking)
    • Used to lightly coat your pan or skillet when cooking the sausages. This helps form a nice brown crust on the outside.

Additional Optional Ingredients

• Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup (1–2 teaspoons): For a breakfast sausage vibe, you can add a touch of sweetness.
• Cayenne Pepper (¼ teaspoon): For more intense heat, substitute or add to chili flakes.
• Fresh Herbs (chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil): Great for a fresher taste if you’re looking to elevate the flavor profile. Get tips on selecting and using fresh herbs and spices for cooking

Remember that you can always experiment with adding or removing ingredients based on your personal taste. The spice blend listed here creates a well-balanced flavor, but it’s completely adaptable to meet your individual cravings.

How to Make Turkey Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Ensure that your ground turkey is thawed if it was previously frozen. Room-temperature or slightly chilled ground turkey is ideal for mixing with spices because it allows the seasonings to blend in thoroughly.
• Measure out all your dry seasonings (salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sage, thyme, chili flakes, fennel seeds if using). Having everything ready will streamline the mixing process.

Step 2: Combine the Ground Turkey with Seasonings

1. In a Large Mixing Bowl: Place your ground turkey.
2. Add the Spices: Sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sage, thyme, and any optional herbs or spices (like chili flakes, fennel seeds) evenly across the ground turkey.
3. Mix Gently: Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, combine the spices with the meat. You’ll want to mix until everything is just incorporated; avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage texture tough. The goal is to distribute the spices thoroughly while retaining a tender bite.

Step 3: Shape the Sausages

At this point, you have a couple of choices for shaping your turkey sausage, depending on how you intend to use it:

1. Sausage Patties
   • Take about 2–3 tablespoons of the turkey mixture and form them into patties.
   • Flatten the patties slightly, making them about ½ inch thick. Thicker patties might need a longer cooking time to cook through.
   • This shape works best if you’re planning to serve the turkey sausage as a breakfast side or on a sandwich.
2. Sausage Links
   • For classic sausage links, you can purchase natural or synthetic casings. However, this can be a bit more involved.
   • If you don’t have casings, you can gently roll the turkey mixture into logs (like mini meatloaves). They won’t have the exact snap of a cased sausage but will still taste amazing.
3. Loose Sausage Crumbles
   • If you’d like to use turkey sausage as a crumble in recipes like pasta sauces, casseroles, or pizza toppings, you can simply keep it unshaped and break it up as you cook.

No matter which shape you choose, try to keep them uniformly sized so that they cook evenly. Refrigerate the shaped sausages for 10–15 minutes before cooking if you have time. This helps them firm up slightly and reduces the chances of them falling apart during the cooking process.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey Sausages

There are multiple ways to cook your turkey sausages:

1. Stovetop (Pan-Fry Method)
   • Heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
   • Once the oil is shimmering, place the turkey sausage patties or links into the pan. Make sure not to overcrowd them; cook in batches if needed.
   • Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side (for patties), or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust the cooking time if your patties or links are thicker.
   • This method yields a slightly crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
2. Baking Method (Oven)
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
   • Place the sausage patties or links on the sheet, making sure to leave a bit of space between them.
   • Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). You can flip them halfway through for a more even browning.
   • Baking is a hands-off approach that’s great if you’re cooking a large batch.
3. Grilling Method
   • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
   • Place the sausages on the grill and cook for roughly 5–6 minutes per side, or until you reach that safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
   • Keep an eye on them, as turkey sausage can dry out if overcooked. If you like those beautiful grill marks, resist the urge to move them around too frequently.
4. Air Fryer
   • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
   • Arrange the turkey sausage patties or links in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
   • Cook for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, or until the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
   • The air fryer method offers a crisp exterior with less oil.

Regardless of your chosen cooking method, always rely on a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures the turkey sausage is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Once your turkey sausages have finished cooking, let them rest for a minute or two before digging in. This brief rest allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is as juicy and flavorful as possible. If you slice into the sausages right away, you risk losing some of those tasty juices.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Plate: Serve your turkey sausage patties with scrambled or fried eggs, whole-grain toast, and fresh fruit for a balanced, energizing morning meal.
• Classic Brunch: Pair your sausage with crispy hash browns, a side of sautéed vegetables, and a glass of freshly squeezed juice.
• Lunch Sandwich: Top your favorite whole-wheat bun with a turkey sausage patty, lettuce, tomato, and a bit of avocado or mustard for a healthy lunch.
• Dinner Entrée: Try pairing turkey sausage links with roasted vegetables (such as potatoes, carrots, and onions), a side salad, or even a portion of whole-grain pasta.
• Pizza Topping: Crumble turkey sausage over homemade pizza for a protein-packed twist.
• Pasta or Casseroles: Use crumbled turkey sausage to enhance the flavor of sauces, baked pasta dishes, or layered casseroles.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigerating: If you have leftovers, allow the sausages to cool to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Learn the best practices for storing cooked and uncooked meats safely.
2. Freezing: Turkey sausage freezes extremely well. You can freeze them either cooked or uncooked.
   • Cooked: Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
   • Uncooked: Shape the sausages into patties or links, then arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They should keep for up to 2–3 months as well. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
3. Reheating: For cooked sausages, you can microwave them until heated through, or warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a teaspoon of oil. Be careful not to overcook, as turkey sausage can quickly become dry if overheated.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll get the most enjoyment out of your turkey sausages while reducing food waste. It also makes meal prep a breeze when you have already-cooked turkey sausages ready to go in your fridge or freezer.

Helpful Notes

• Prevent Dryness: Turkey is lean, so overcooking can lead to dryness. Use a thermometer to ensure you pull the sausages off the heat around 165°F (74°C). Any extra cooking time risks losing moisture.
• Fat Content: If you can only find very lean turkey (like 99% lean), you might want to add a tablespoon of a healthy oil (like olive oil) or even a bit of finely chopped bacon (if you’re okay adding a small amount of pork) to help with moisture.
• Mind the Salt: Different spice blends contain varying amounts of salt. Taste-test a small piece of the turkey mixture in a pan before shaping the rest to make sure it’s seasoned to your liking.
• Kosher vs. Table Salt: If you’re using kosher salt instead of table salt, you might need to increase the quantity slightly since kosher salt has a coarser grain.
• Bulk Preparation: If you love to meal prep, consider doubling or tripling the recipe. You can cook some right away and freeze the rest for quick meals later.
• Flavor Tweaks: Don’t be afraid to modify the flavor profile. For instance, add lemon zest, fresh parsley, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a twist. Get creative with your seasoning and make the recipe truly your own.
• Allergen Checks: If you have specific dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free, dairy-free), verify that your spices and any optional ingredients are safe. While the base recipe is generally allergen-friendly, spice blends occasionally contain fillers.
• Culinary Thermometer: Consider investing in a quality kitchen thermometer. It’s one of the best ways to get consistent, restaurant-quality results and avoid overcooking your turkey sausage.

These helpful notes allow you to sidestep the common pitfalls of cooking turkey and ensure you get a succulent, delicious sausage every time.

Looking for more recipes with detailed instructions and vibrant flavors? Check out our Churu Chicken Amarillo Recipe for inspiration.

Conclusion

Homemade turkey sausage is a fantastic way to get all the rich, savory goodness of traditional sausage without the high fat content. Whether you’re cooking for a family brunch or prepping quick and nutritious lunches for the week, this turkey sausage recipe is a game-changer. You have total control over the flavors, you know exactly what ingredients you’re consuming, and you can easily customize the spice blend to match your personal taste.

Once you make your own turkey sausage, you might never go back to store-bought alternatives. The flexibility to shape them into patties, links, or crumbles means you’ll have countless opportunities to incorporate them into a variety of dishes. With thoughtful storage, your batch can last well beyond the day you cook it, giving you a healthy protein option at the ready.

Remember to pay attention to cooking temperatures to prevent dryness, and don’t be afraid to spice things up with your favorite herbs and seasonings. Whether you’re a morning person who adores a hearty breakfast or a dinner enthusiast looking for a lighter protein source, these homemade sausages are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

If you enjoyed this turkey sausage recipe, don’t forget to try our Pumpkin Pancake Recipe—a delightful breakfast treat for any occasion.

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Turkey Sausage Recipe

Rebecca Blumer

Discover a healthy Turkey Sausage Recipe! Packed with flavor, low in fat, and easy to make, it's perfect for breakfast or any meal. Try it today!

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 160 kcal

Ingredients

  

Ground Turkey (1 pound / ~450g)

• Choose ground turkey with 93% lean and 7% fat or 90% lean and 10% fat for a perfect balance of moisture and flavor.

Salt (1 teaspoon)

• Essential for bringing out the flavors in your turkey sausage. Adjust based on your sodium preferences.

Freshly Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)

• Adds a gentle bite that complements the herbs. Using freshly ground black pepper can give a more robust flavor than pre-ground.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

• Provides a hint of smoky warmth. You can use sweet paprika smoked paprika, or even hot paprika, depending on your flavor preferences.

Onion Powder (1 teaspoon)

• Concentrates the aromatic onion flavor without adding moisture. You can use dried minced onions if you’d like a more pronounced texture.

Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon)

• A staple in most sausage recipes garlic powder adds depth. Fresh garlic can be used if you prefer, but be mindful of its moisture content.

Dried Sage (1 teaspoon)

• Sage is the herb that gives many sausages their characteristic savory flavor. If you’re not a fan you can substitute with dried basil or thyme.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon)

• Lends a subtle herby note that pairs perfectly with the sage.

Chili Flakes or Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon) (optional)

• If you like a little heat chili flakes or red pepper flakes add the perfect spicy kick. Adjust the amount depending on your spice tolerance.

Fennel Seeds (¼ teaspoon) (optional)

• Fennel seeds are often used in Italian sausages. They add a sweet licorice-like undertone that many find appealing.

Olive Oil or Avocado Oil (1 tablespoon) (for cooking)

• Used to lightly coat your pan or skillet when cooking the sausages. This helps form a nice brown crust on the outside.

Additional Optional Ingredients

• Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup 1–2 teaspoons: For a breakfast sausage vibe, you can add a touch of sweetness.
• Cayenne Pepper ¼ teaspoon: For more intense heat, substitute or add to chili flakes.
• Fresh Herbs chopped parsley, cilantro, or basil: Great for a fresher taste if you’re looking to elevate the flavor profile.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Ensure that your ground turkey is thawed if it was previously frozen. Room-temperature or slightly chilled ground turkey is ideal for mixing with spices because it allows the seasonings to blend in thoroughly.
• Measure out all your dry seasonings (salt, black pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sage, thyme, chili flakes, fennel seeds if using). Having everything ready will streamline the mixing process.

Step 2: Combine the Ground Turkey with Seasonings

• In a Large Mixing Bowl: Place your ground turkey.
• Add the Spices: Sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, sage, thyme, and any optional herbs or spices (like chili flakes, fennel seeds) evenly across the ground turkey.
• Mix Gently: Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, combine the spices with the meat. You’ll want to mix until everything is just incorporated; avoid overmixing, as this can make the sausage texture tough. The goal is to distribute the spices thoroughly while retaining a tender bite.

Step 3: Shape the Sausages

• Sausage Patties:

  – Take about 2–3 tablespoons of the turkey mixture and form them into patties.

  – Flatten the patties slightly, making them about ½ inch thick. Thicker patties might need a longer cooking time to cook through.

  – This shape works best if you’re planning to serve the turkey sausage as a breakfast side or on a sandwich.
• Sausage Links:

  – For classic sausage links, you can purchase natural or synthetic casings. However, this can be a bit more involved.

  – If you don’t have casings, you can gently roll the turkey mixture into logs (like mini meatloaves). They won’t have the exact snap of a cased sausage but will still taste amazing.
• Loose Sausage Crumbles:

  – If you’d like to use turkey sausage as a crumble in recipes like pasta sauces, casseroles, or pizza toppings, you can simply keep it unshaped and break it up as you cook.
• No matter which shape you choose, try to keep them uniformly sized so that they cook evenly. Refrigerate the shaped sausages for 10–15 minutes before cooking if you have time. This helps them firm up slightly and reduces the chances of them falling apart during the cooking process.

Step 4: Cook the Turkey Sausages

• Stovetop (Pan-Fry Method):

  – Heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

  – Once the oil is shimmering, place the turkey sausage patties or links into the pan. Make sure not to overcrowd them; cook in batches if needed.

  – Cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side (for patties), or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust the cooking time if your patties or links are thicker.

  – This method yields a slightly crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
• Baking Method (Oven):

  – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  – Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  – Place the sausage patties or links on the sheet, making sure to leave a bit of space between them.

  – Bake for about 15–20 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). You can flip them halfway through for a more even browning.

  – Baking is a hands-off approach that’s great if you’re cooking a large batch.
• Grilling Method:

  – Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

  – Place the sausages on the grill and cook for roughly 5–6 minutes per side, or until you reach that safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

  – Keep an eye on them, as turkey sausage can dry out if overcooked. If you like those beautiful grill marks, resist the urge to move them around too frequently.
• Air Fryer:

  – Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

  – Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

  – Arrange the turkey sausage patties or links in a single layer (work in batches if needed).

  – Cook for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, or until the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).

  – The air fryer method offers a crisp exterior with less oil.
• Regardless of your chosen cooking method, always rely on a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures the turkey sausage is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

• Once your turkey sausages have finished cooking, let them rest for a minute or two before digging in. This brief rest allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is as juicy and flavorful as possible. If you slice into the sausages right away, you risk losing some of those tasty juices.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~160 kcal
• Total Fat: 7 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 65 mg
• Sodium: 520 mg
• Fiber: <1 g
• Sugar: 1 g

 

Nutrition Note: These values can change depending on the specific brand of ground turkey and any optional add-ins (like sweeteners or extra herbs).

FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions you may have about making and enjoying homemade turkey sausage:

By now, you have everything you need to create your own mouthwatering turkey sausages at home. From a breakdown of each ingredient to step-by-step cooking methods, plus pro tips for storage and reheating, this recipe is ready to become a beloved part of your culinary routine. Enjoy the convenience, savor the flavor, and relish the peace of mind knowing you’ve crafted a healthier, delicious alternative to traditional sausage. Bon appétit!