AIP Paleo Breakfast Sausage

This flavorful homemade pork sausage recipe transforms basic ground pork into crispy, savory breakfast patties without any additives or fillers. When following special diets like AIP, Paleo, Whole30, or Keto, finding satisfying breakfast options can be challenging, especially when eggs are off the menu. These mini sausage patties deliver the perfect solution with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

I created this recipe during my own AIP journey when I grew tired of the limited breakfast options. These sausages quickly became my morning staple, offering a protein-packed start that kept me satisfied until lunch.

Ingredients

• Ground pork: brings the perfect fat-to-meat ratio for juicy sausages that crisp beautifully
• Sea salt: enhances all the flavors and helps bind the meat
• Fresh sage: offers that classic breakfast sausage flavor you know and love
• Fresh thyme: adds an earthy complexity that dried herbs simply cannot match
• Garlic powder: provides convenient flavor without the prep of fresh garlic
• Onion powder: delivers sweet depth without the texture of onions
• Ground nutmeg: adds warm notes reminiscent of traditional sausage blends
• Ground cloves: introduce a subtle aromatic quality that makes these patties special
• Coconut oil: creates the perfect cooking surface for optimal browning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Ingredients:

Place ground pork in a medium bowl and add all seasonings including salt, fresh herbs, and dried spices. Use clean hands to thoroughly mix everything together, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Take care not to overmix as this can make the sausages tough.

Form The Patties:

Divide the seasoned meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty about 2.5 inches in diameter and ½ inch thick. Slightly indent the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking. For easier cooking, you can place the formed patties on a parchment-lined plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.

Prepare The Skillet:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the coconut oil and allow it to melt completely and coat the surface of the pan. The oil should shimmer but not smoke when ready.

Cook The Sausages:

Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet, ensuring they have space between them for even cooking. Leave them undisturbed for a full 5 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip only once and cook for another 5 minutes on the second side until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

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Fresh herbs truly make a difference in this recipe. While dried herbs can work in a pinch, the brightness of fresh sage and thyme transforms these simple patties into something special. I always keep a small herb garden going just for recipes like this one, where the freshness really shines through.

Storage and Meal Prep

These sausage patties store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. I often make a double batch specifically for freezing to have easy breakfast options on hand.

Herb Variations

While sage and thyme create that classic breakfast sausage flavor, you can experiment with different herb combinations depending on your preference. Rosemary creates a more robust, aromatic profile, while cilantro and lime zest offer a brightness that pairs beautifully with Mexican-inspired breakfasts. Fresh oregano and basil give an Italian twist that works wonderfully when serving these sausages with tomatoes and greens. The key is using enough herbs to really infuse the meat with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile sausage patties can anchor various breakfast plates. Pair them with avocado slices and fresh fruit for a complete AIP breakfast. They also work beautifully alongside sweet potato hash or roasted vegetables for a hearty morning meal. For non-AIP eaters, these patties make excellent protein additions to breakfast bowls with greens and roasted vegetables. Consider making slightly smaller patties to use in lettuce wraps with avocado and fresh herbs for a delicious lunch option.

Why Homemade Sausage Is Worth It

Commercial breakfast sausages often contain unwanted additives, preservatives, and sweeteners that can interfere with health goals and special diets. By making your own, you control exactly what goes into your food. The process takes just minutes but delivers significantly better flavor and nutritional value. Plus, the cost savings can be substantial, especially when purchasing ground pork in bulk. Once you experience the difference in taste and how your body feels after eating clean, homemade sausage, store-bought versions will pale in comparison.

Common Queries

→ Can I make these sausage patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to two days, or freeze them for longer storage. Simply cook when ready to serve.

→ Is ground pork the only option for this dish?

Ground pork creates the classic taste and texture, but you may substitute with other ground meats like turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

→ How do I ensure the patties stay juicy?

Avoid overworking the meat and cook just until golden brown. Ground pork’s natural fat helps retain moisture and keep the patties tender.

→ Are there alternative herbs I can use?

Fresh rosemary, marjoram, or parsley can complement or replace sage and thyme, depending on your preference or availability.

→ Is there a way to make these patties completely AIP-compliant?

Yes, omit the ground nutmeg and be mindful of spice choices to ensure all ingredients align with AIP guidelines.

→ How should these sausage patties be served?

Enjoy them on their own, pair with roasted vegetables, or serve with a side of avocado for a complete breakfast.