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.
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.
Add the crushed garlic to the mixture. Garlic is what gives your sausage a punch of flavor, so make sure it's well distributed.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!