Homemade Maple Breakfast Sausage takes classic breakfast sausage and gives it a sweet twist with pure maple syrup. The mix of ground pork, sage, and warm spices makes patties that are juicy, flavorful, and freezer-friendly. Cook them in the air fryer for busy mornings or in a skillet for that old-fashioned, crispy edge! Either way, they’ll make your breakfast spread unforgettable! Looking for a classic breakfast sausage patty without maple? Check out my Homemade Breakfast Sausage Patties for another easy, flavorful option!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ground Pork: This is the base of your breakfast sausage and gives it a juicy, tender texture. You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of pork and beef if you want a slightly different flavor. Avoid very lean meats, or the patties may dry out.
- Ground Sage: Sage adds that classic savory sausage flavor. You can use fresh sage (about 1 tablespoon, finely minced) if you prefer, but reduce the amount slightly, as fresh herbs are more potent.
- Garlic Powder: Provides depth of flavor without the sharpness of raw garlic. You can substitute ½ teaspoon of onion powder for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Kosher Salt: Kosher salt seasons the sausage evenly. If using table salt, reduce slightly to 1 ½ teaspoons to avoid over-salting.
- Ground Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and enhances the other spices. You can adjust based on your taste or use freshly cracked pepper for a bolder flavor.
- Dried Marjoram: Gives a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the sage. Oregano can be used as a substitute in a pinch.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a gentle kick. Omit if you prefer your sausage milder, or increase slightly for more heat.
- Ground Cloves: Just a pinch adds warmth and complexity. You can leave it out if you don’t want the subtle spiced note.
- Pure Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and balances the savory spices. You can substitute honey or brown sugar, but maple syrup gives the most authentic breakfast sausage flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken will work, but the patties may be a little leaner and less juicy. Add a teaspoon of olive oil to the mix if needed.
Does the maple syrup make them sweet?
Just slightly. The syrup balances the savory spices without making the sausage taste overly sweet. If you like heat and no sweetness, try my Jalapeno Cheese Sausage Patties!
Can I bake the patties instead of air frying or frying in a skillet?
Yes! You can bake homemade maple breakfast sausage patties in the oven. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The oven method gives you juicy, evenly cooked sausage, but for the crispiest edges, the air fryer is still my top choice.
What if I don’t have marjoram or cloves?
You can leave them out; the sausage will still taste delicious. They just add a little extra depth.
Serving Ideas
These maple sausage patties are delicious on their own, but you can also:
- Pair with scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, and toast for a hearty breakfast.
- Add to my griddle breakfast sandwiches with eggs and cheese.
- Crumble into omelets, frittatas, or breakfast burritos.
- Serve alongside pancakes and waffles for the ultimate sweet-and-savory combo.
How To Store & Freeze Maple Breakfast Sausage
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze (uncooked): Shape patties, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Cook straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes.
Freeze (cooked): Let patties cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Maple Breakfast Sausage
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground pork
- 1 teaspoon ground sage
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried marjoram
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together sage, garlic powder, marjoram, red pepper flakes, cloves, salt, and pepper.
- Place ground pork in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the pork.
- Drizzle in the maple syrup. Using clean hands, gently mix until the seasoning is well distributed (do not overmix).
- Divide the pork mixture into portions, about ⅓ cup each, and shape into patties. Place onto a parchment-lined sheet pan or plate until ready to cook.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.*
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange the sausage patties in a single layer in the basket. (Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.)
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Prepare the sausage patties as directed.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties in a single layer. (Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.)
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Did you make this recipe?
You can tag me at @iamhomesteader.
What the Test Kitchen had to say about this recipe:
Autumn
The flavor of these breakfast sausages is perfect! They are not too sweet and have just the right balance with the spices.
Elizabeth
I usually add a little maple syrup on my breakfast sausages, so to have it right in there is awesome! I love these!
Stephanie
These are super easy and taste way better than store-bought frozen sausages.
Bella
I like that these are a little sweet, and little savory, and perfectly seasoned. This is a good recipe!
