Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage

There’s something truly special about making your own sausage, and when it comes to Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage, it’s a delightful journey into flavor and health. Growing up, I remember my grandmother spending her weekends preparing her famous sausage, filling the house with the most enticing aromas. Every bite of her homemade creation was a testament to the love she poured into her cooking. As I ventured into my own kitchen, I realized that I could carry on that tradition, but with a leaner twist using turkey. Now, I invite you to join me in crafting your very own batch of Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage. It’s surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. You’ll have a flavorful, versatile ingredient that can elevate any dish!

What to Buy for Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage

Choosing the right ingredients for Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage is essential for achieving that authentic flavor. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balanced taste experience. From the lean turkey to the aromatic spices, these elements come together beautifully. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

• 1.3 lbs. 93% lean ground turkey: This is the star of the show. Lean ground turkey provides a light yet flavorful base that you can season to perfection.
• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, minced: Adds a sweet crunch and color, bringing the sausage to life.
• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, minced: Similar to its green counterpart, it enhances flavor while contributing to the vibrant look of your sausage.
• 1 clove garlic, crushed: Nothing beats the depth of flavor that fresh garlic adds. It’s essential in Italian cooking!
• 1/2 tsp sweet paprika: This spice lends a subtle warmth and a beautiful hue.
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt: Seasoning is key, and kosher salt helps enhance all the flavors.
• 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of heat to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
• 1/8 tsp dried thyme: This herb gives an earthy undertone, complementing the turkey perfectly.
• 1/8 tsp dried oregano leaves: A staple in Italian cuisine, oregano adds a classic flavor.
• 1/8 tsp dried marjoram leaves: Slightly sweet and citrusy, it’s the secret ingredient that enhances the overall profile.
• 1/4 tsp dried fennel: This lends a subtle anise flavor, reminiscent of traditional sausages.
• 1 tsp sugar: Helps balance the spices and brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers.

The Method for Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage

Cooking your own sausage at home is an enjoyable experience, and making Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage is no exception! Let’s walk through the steps together, focusing on the natural flavors of each ingredient. Follow along as we blend the turkey with spices and create the perfect sausage.

1. Start with your ingredients. Gather all of your turkey, garlic, and spices on a clean surface. It’s important to have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can mix them together seamlessly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the minced green and red bell peppers. The vibrant colors will give your sausage a beautiful appearance. Ensure the peppers are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
3. Add the crushed garlic to the mixture. Garlic is what gives your sausage a punch of flavor, so make sure it’s well distributed.
4. Now, sprinkle in the paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, marjoram, fennel, and sugar. Each spice contributes its own unique flavor, so take a moment to appreciate the aroma as you add them.
5. Using your hands or a fork, mix the ingredients thoroughly. You want to ensure even distribution of spices and vegetables throughout the meat. Be careful not to overmix; just enough to blend them well.
6. Next, decide how you want to shape the sausage. You can form them into patties for breakfast sandwiches or roll them into links if you prefer. The choice is yours!
7. If you choose to make patties, shape them about one inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Forming them too thick may result in undercooked centers.
8. Once shaped, you can either cook them right away or let them chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking.
9. To cook the sausage, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if desired, but keep in mind that the turkey will release some fat as it cooks.
10. Cook the patties for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want a nice golden-brown exterior and a tender interior. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
11. Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier sausage. You can enjoy your Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage in various ways!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Feel free to get creative with your Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage! Here are some great ideas to make it even more versatile:

• Storage: Properly store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to five days!
• Freezing: You can freeze your sausages for future use. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer bag.
• Pairing: These sausages pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables, adding a burst of flavor to your meal.
• Breakfast Option: Incorporate them into your breakfast by serving with eggs and toast for a hearty start to your day.
• Grilling: If you love grilling, try your sausages on the barbecue for that delicious, smoky flavor!
• Stuffed Peppers: Use them as a filling for stuffed peppers, adding grains like quinoa for a wholesome meal.

Serve This Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage With

When it comes to enjoying your Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage, there are countless options for creating the perfect meal. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Breakfast: Serve your sausage patties alongside fluffy scrambled eggs and crispy toast for a delightful breakfast.
• Pasta Dishes: Mix crumbled sausage into pasta dishes for added protein and flavor; it goes especially well with marinara sauce.
• Pizza Topping: Sprinkle cooked sausage over your favorite pizza for an irresistible twist that your guests will love.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the sausage as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, combined with rice and cheese for a hearty dish.
• Salads: Slice the cooked sausage and add it to a fresh garden salad for an easy, protein-packed meal option.
• Grilled Veggies: Pair these sausages with grilled vegetables during summer barbecues for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Meal Prep: Consider making a large batch to have on hand for quick meals throughout the week.

FAQ

Conclusion

Making Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage is a satisfying experience that brings healthy, delicious flavors into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this recipe is bound to impress your family and friends. So don’t hesitate to give it a try! Embrace the joy of homemade and savor the taste that you crafted with your own hands.

Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage

The ultimate comfort food, Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage is packed with flavor and perfect for any meal. Easy to make and healthier than traditional sausage, it's a versatile ingredient for pasta, breakfast, or grilling. Make it tonight for a delicious, satisfying dish!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 5 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.3 lbs Ground Turkey
• 1/4 cup Green Bell Pepper minced
• 1/4 cup Red Bell Pepper minced
• 1 clove Garlic crushed
• 1/2 tsp Sweet Paprika
• 1/4 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/8 tsp Dried Thyme
• 1/8 tsp Dried Oregano Leaves
• 1/8 tsp Dried Marjoram Leaves
• 1/4 tsp Dried Fennel
• 1 tsp Sugar

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Start with your ingredients. Gather all of your turkey, garlic, and spices on a clean surface. It’s important to have everything prepped and ready to go, so you can mix them together seamlessly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with the minced green and red bell peppers. The vibrant colors will give your sausage a beautiful appearance. Ensure the peppers are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
3. Add the crushed garlic to the mixture. Garlic is what gives your sausage a punch of flavor, so make sure it's well distributed.
4. Now, sprinkle in the paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, marjoram, fennel, and sugar. Each spice contributes its own unique flavor, so take a moment to appreciate the aroma as you add them.
5. Using your hands or a fork, mix the ingredients thoroughly. You want to ensure even distribution of spices and vegetables throughout the meat. Be careful not to overmix; just enough to blend them well.
6. Next, decide how you want to shape the sausage. You can form them into patties for breakfast sandwiches or roll them into links if you prefer. The choice is yours!
7. If you choose to make patties, shape them about one inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Forming them too thick may result in undercooked centers.
8. Once shaped, you can either cook them right away or let them chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape better while cooking.
9. To cook the sausage, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if desired, but keep in mind that the turkey will release some fat as it cooks.
10. Cook the patties for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want a nice golden-brown exterior and a tender interior. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
11. Once cooked, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier sausage. You can enjoy your Homemade Italian Turkey Sausage in various ways!

Notes

• Tip 1: Properly store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to five days!
• Tip 2: You can freeze your sausages for future use. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer bag.
• Tip 3: These sausages pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables, adding a burst of flavor to your meal.
• Tip 4: Incorporate them into your breakfast by serving with eggs and toast for a hearty start to your day.
• Tip 5: If you love grilling, try your sausages on the barbecue for that delicious, smoky flavor!
• Tip 6: Use them as a filling for stuffed peppers, combined with rice and cheese for a wholesome meal.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.