Recreating a Taste of Home: Homemade Tennessee Pride Sausage

The smell of breakfast sausage sizzling in a cast iron skillet… it’s a memory etched in my mind from childhood visits to my grandmother’s farm. She always had a secret blend of spices that made her sausage so unique. While this recipe isn’t hers, it definitely rekindles that same feeling of warmth and comfort. While nothing can truly replicate those memories, the journey of recreating beloved flavors is a rewarding experience in itself. This recipe aims to capture a similar hearty, savory taste that reminds me of those cherished mornings.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yields: 4-6 patties
• Dietary Type: Varies depending on pork used

Ingredients

For the Spice Mix:

• 5 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons rubbed sage
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme

For the Sausage Patties (per pound of pork):

• 1 pound fresh ground pork
• 2 teaspoons Spice Mix (from above)
• 2 tablespoons oil (optional, depending on the leanness of the pork)

Equipment Needed

• Airtight container for storing the spice mix
• Large bowl for mixing
• Frying pan or skillet

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Mix: In a bowl, combine the salt, ground black pepper, rubbed sage, nutmeg, and dried thyme. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Store the spice mix in an airtight container. This makes a larger batch that can be used for multiple batches of sausage.

2. Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine 1 pound of fresh ground pork with 2 teaspoons of the prepared Spice Mix. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough sausage. Gently but thoroughly incorporate the spice mix into the pork.

3. Form the Patties: Divide the sausage mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions, depending on your desired patty size. Shape each portion into a patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Ensure patties are uniform for even cooking.

4. Cook the Sausage: If your pork is very lean, add 2 tablespoons of oil to a frying pan or skillet. Heat the pan over medium heat.

5. Fry the Patties: Carefully place the sausage patties into the hot pan. Fry for about 4 minutes on one side, or until browned.

6. Flip and Finish Cooking: Flip the patties and cook for another 3 minutes on the other side, or until the sausage is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your patties and the heat of your pan. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) has been reached.

7. Serve Immediately: Remove the cooked sausage patties from the pan and serve hot.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Grind Your Own Pork: For the best flavor and control over the fat content, consider grinding your own pork shoulder. Look for pork shoulders on sale, especially in the fall. This allows you to customize the grind and fat ratio to your liking.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Adjust the amount of black pepper to your preferred spice level. Start with the recommended amount and increase gradually to taste.
• Make Ahead: The spice mix can be made well in advance and stored for several months in an airtight container. This saves time when you’re ready to make sausage. You can also form the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Prevent Sticking: To prevent the sausage from sticking to the pan, make sure the pan is properly heated before adding the patties. You can also use a non-stick skillet or lightly grease the pan with oil.
• Doneness Check: If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check for doneness by cutting into the center of a patty. The sausage should be cooked through with no pink remaining.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these delicious sausage patties hot for breakfast or brunch, alongside eggs, biscuits, and gravy. They are also great in breakfast sandwiches or as a side with pancakes or waffles.

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Cooked sausage should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Refrigerator: Store leftover cooked sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap cooked sausage patties individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

• Skillet: Reheat cooked sausage patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Microwave sausage patties on high for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.
• Oven: Reheat sausage patties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutritional Information

(Estimated per patty, based on using ground pork with approximately 20% fat. These values can vary significantly depending on the fat content of the pork used and portion size.)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	150 kcal	8%
Total Fat	12g	18%
Saturated Fat	5g	25%
Cholesterol	45mg	15%
Sodium	750mg	31%
Total Carbohydrate	1g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	0g	0%
Protein	9g	18%

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Sausage: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a spicy kick.
• Maple Sausage: Add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the sausage mixture for a hint of sweetness.
• Italian Sausage: Replace the sage and thyme with Italian seasoning for an Italian-style sausage. Fennel seeds would also make a great addition.
• Turkey Sausage: Substitute ground turkey for the ground pork for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian “Sausage”: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute. Be mindful of moisture content and adjust cooking times accordingly.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use pre-ground pork sausage instead of making my own?
A: While you can, you’ll have less control over the spices and ingredients. The beauty of this recipe is that you can adjust it to your exact preferences.

Q: How long does the spice mix last?
A: If stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the spice mix can last for several months.

Q: Can I freeze the raw sausage patties?
A: Yes, you can freeze the raw patties. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Q: My sausage is too dry. What can I do?
A: Ensure your pork has a decent fat content, or add a little extra oil to the pan while cooking. Overmixing the sausage can also make it tough and dry, so be gentle when combining the ingredients.

Q: What’s the best way to serve this sausage?
A: These sausage patties are incredibly versatile! They’re fantastic for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Try them in sandwiches, with eggs, or even crumbled over salads.

Final Thoughts

This homemade Tennessee Pride Sausage recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it’s a way to recreate a taste of home, to experiment with flavors, and to make something truly special. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and ingredients to create your own unique sausage blend. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your feedback. Perhaps pair it with some creamy grits or fluffy buttermilk biscuits for a truly Southern experience. Happy cooking!