Looking to create delicious, healthy breakfast sausages at home? You’re in the right place! Making turkey sausage patties isn’t just about saving money – crafting a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought options. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating these flavorful patties from scratch.

Why Turkey Sausage Patties Are Your New Breakfast Hero
There’s something deeply satisfying about biting into a perfectly seasoned, juicy turkey sausage patty that you’ve made yourself. As a culinary expert who’s spent years perfecting breakfast recipes, I can tell you that turkey sausage patties are having their moment – and for good reason.
Turkey sausage patties offer an incredible combination of lean protein and versatility. They’re not just a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage; they’re a blank canvas for creating flavors that match your dietary preferences and taste buds. Whether following a specific diet plan or simply trying to make better food choices, these patties can be adapted to fit Paleo, AIP (Autoimmune Protocol), Whole30, and gluten-free lifestyles.
The beauty of making your turkey sausage patties lies in your control over the ingredients. No more mystery additives or preservatives – you’ll know exactly what’s going into your breakfast. Plus, you can adjust the seasonings to match your family’s preferences, making breakfast time a hit with everyone at the table.
Turkey Sausage Patties Ingredients
Let’s start with the foundation of great turkey sausage patties. Here’s what you’ll need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean recommended for best texture)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
Optional Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (for sweet and savory blend)
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 small grated apple (adds moisture and natural sweetness)
The key to success lies in choosing high-quality ground turkey. While you might be tempted to go for the leanest option, a blend with some fat content (93% lean) will give you juicier, more flavorful patties. The small amount of fat helps carry the flavors and keeps the patties from drying out during cooking.
How To Make Turkey Sausage Patties
Let’s break down the process into manageable steps that ensure success every time:

1. Preparation (15 minutes):
- In a large bowl, combine ground turkey with all your chosen seasonings. Use clean hands to mix gently but thoroughly, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to allow flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing depth of flavor.
- When ready to cook, divide the mixture into 8 equal portions (about ¼ cup each).
- With slightly damp hands, form each portion into a patty about ½ inch thick. Create a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb – this prevents the patties from puffing up during cooking.
2. Cooking Methods:
Pan-Frying (Recommended for best results):
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – work in batches if necessary
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F
- Lightly spray patties with oil
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through
Baking Method:
- Preheat oven to 375°F
- Place patties on a lined baking sheet
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through
Cooking Tips and Techniques
- Keep It Moist: Add a tablespoon of olive oil or grated vegetables like zucchini to prevent the patties from drying out.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on seasonings. Ground turkey has a mild flavor, so spices are essential.
- Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerating the patties for 15-20 minutes helps them hold their shape during cooking.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: This prevents sticking and ensures even browning.
Nutrition and Health Information
Turkey sausage patties aren’t just delicious – they’re nutritionally sound too. Here’s the breakdown per patty (based on recipe using 93% lean turkey):

How Many Calories In a Turkey Sausage Patty
Regarding protein content, turkey sausage patties are a powerhouse of nutrition. Here’s the detailed breakdown:
- Homemade turkey sausage patty (2 oz/56g): 13-15g protein
- Store-bought turkey sausage patty (2 oz/56g): 11-13g protein
The exact protein content can vary based on:
- The lean-to-fat ratio of your ground turkey
- The size of your patties
- Whether you’re using pure turkey breast or mixed dark meat
- Added ingredients that might dilute the protein concentration
For those tracking macros, turkey sausage patties are an excellent high-protein option to help you meet your daily protein goals. The protein in turkey is complete, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids your body needs.
How Much Protein In a Turkey Sausage Patty
Understanding the calorie content of turkey sausage patties can help you make informed dietary choices:
- Homemade turkey sausage patty (2 oz/56g):
- Using 93% lean turkey: 120-130 calories
- Using 99% lean turkey: 100-110 calories
- Using 85% lean turkey: 140-150 calories
- Store-bought turkey sausage patty (2 oz/56g):
- Average commercial brands: 140-170 calories
- “Light” versions: 90-120 calories
- Premium brands: 130-160 calories
The calorie content varies based on:
- The fat content of your ground turkey
- Added ingredients like oils or binders
- Cooking methods (pan-fried vs. air-fried)
- Patty’s size and thickness
For those watching their calorie intake, leaner turkey and cooking methods like air frying can help reduce the overall calorie content while maintaining flavor and texture.
More Easy Recipes to Try
Frequently Asked Questions
Are turkey sausage patties healthy?
Yes, turkey sausage patties can be a healthy option, especially if they’re made with lean turkey meat. They tend to be lower in fat and calories than pork sausage but still provide protein. Check the label for added sodium or preservatives.
How do you cook turkey sausage without drying it out?
To keep turkey sausage moist, cook it over medium heat and avoid overcooking. You can also add a little water or broth to the pan and cover it while cooking. This helps maintain moisture.
Is turkey sausage healthier than bacon?
In general, turkey sausage is considered healthier than bacon because it usually has less saturated fat and fewer calories. However, it’s important to compare brands and check for added sugar or sodium.
Who makes a good turkey sausage?
Brands like Applegate, Butterball, and Jennie-O are popular for turkey sausage. They offer options with minimal additives and are widely available in grocery stores.
What is the healthiest sausage to eat?
The healthiest sausages are made from lean meats like turkey or chicken, with no added nitrates, preservatives, or artificial flavors. Look for sausages labeled “low sodium” or “all-natural.”
Is turkey sausage a processed meat?
Yes, turkey sausage is considered a processed meat since it’s seasoned, formed, and often pre-cooked. However, some brands use minimal processing, which makes them a better choice.
Can turkey sausage be a little pink?
Yes, turkey sausage can have a slight pink color even when fully cooked, especially if it contains certain seasonings like paprika. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Is it better to cook sausages in the oven or pan?
Both methods are good, but cooking sausages in the oven is often healthier because it requires less oil and allows excess fat to drip off. Pan-frying gives a crispier texture but may require more attention to prevent burning.
Conclusion
Turkey Sausage Patties are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make option that suits a variety of meals and dietary preferences. With this guide, you’ll have no trouble crafting perfect patties every time. Enjoy your culinary journey!

Turkey Sausage Patties
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 (12 patties)
Description
These homemade turkey sausage patties are flavorful, lean, and easy to make! Perfect for a healthy breakfast, brunch, or meal prep. Customize the seasoning to match your preferences!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Turkey Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried sage, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined, but do not overwork the meat. - Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape them into small patties, about 2–3 inches wide. - Cook the Patties:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, place half the patties in the skillet, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). - Repeat:
Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and keep warm. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and cook the second batch of patties. - Serve:
Serve warm with eggs, toast, or your favorite breakfast sides.
Notes
- These patties can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes per side.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 (12 patties)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 0g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 15g
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