Crispy Apple and Pork Breakfast Sausage Patties
These homemade sausage patties combine the natural sweetness of fresh apples with savory pork and aromatic herbs for a protein-packed breakfast that's both Whole30 and Paleo-friendly.
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork preferably 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
- 1 medium apple Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, peeled and finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil for cooking
Instructions
- Peel and core the apple, then dice it into very small pieces (approximately ¼-inch cubes). Blot the diced apple with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, diced apple, minced garlic, chopped sage, thyme, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes (if using). Use clean hands to gently mix the ingredients, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions (about ¼ cup each). Roll each portion into a ball, then gently flatten to form a patty approximately ½-inch thick. Create a slight dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb.
- Place the formed patties on a parchment-lined plate and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight if preparing ahead).
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a deep golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
Notes
Substitution Options:
- Ground chicken or turkey can replace pork for a leaner option (add 1 tablespoon olive oil to maintain juiciness)
- Pears can substitute for apples for a more subtle sweetness
- Dried herbs can replace fresh (use 1 teaspoon dried sage and ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- For AIP-friendly version, omit pepper and red pepper flakes
- Refrigeration: Cooked patties stay fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezing: Layer uncooked or fully cooled cooked patties between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months
- Reheating: For best texture, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes per side
Nutrition
Calories: 175kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 12gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4.5gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 330mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 2g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!