Homemade Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage
This homemade Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage is a family favorite, perfect for elevating any dish that calls for Italian sausage. The blend of aromatic spices and fragrant herbs gives this turkey sausage a delightful flavor profile that's both comforting and versatile. Whether you shape it into links or patties or cook it crumbled, this recipe offers a healthier, lighter twist on traditional sausage without compromising on taste. It’s also ideal for meal prep as it can be made in advance and stored for convenience.
5
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
ground turkey
1 lb (none)
dried sweet basil leaves
2 teaspoons (none)
brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
fennel seed
1 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon (none)
garlic powder
1 teaspoon (none)
ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon (none)
nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, sweet basil leaves, brown sugar, salt, fennel seed, black pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, ground cloves, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2
2. For patties or links, shape the seasoned mixture into your desired forms. If you prefer crumbles, simply leave it as-is.
3
3. To cook, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. If making crumbles, add the mixture to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
4
4. For links or patties, add to the skillet and cook, turning carefully to brown on all sides. Cover the skillet with a lid and continue to cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5
5. If preparing in advance, cover and refrigerate the seasoned mixture for up to 36 hours to let the flavors meld. Alternatively, shape and freeze for later use. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
6
6. Serve the sausage in your favorite dishes, such as pastas, pizzas, or on its own as a delicious protein option.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Homemade Sweet Italian Turkey Sausage?
It is a healthier, lighter twist on traditional Italian sausage made with ground turkey and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.
What are the primary ingredients for this turkey sausage recipe?
The main ingredients include ground turkey, dried sweet basil leaves, brown sugar, salt, fennel seed, black pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, ground cloves, and nutmeg.
How do I prepare the sausage mixture?
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey with all the specified spices and herbs, and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Can I shape this sausage into patties?
Yes, once the mixture is seasoned, you can shape it into patties, links, or leave it as crumbles depending on your preference.
How should I cook the sausage crumbles?
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add the mixture, and cook while stirring occasionally until it is browned and cooked through.
What is the recommended internal temperature for turkey sausage?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
How long does it take to cook turkey sausage patties or links?
Cook them in a skillet for 8-10 minutes over medium heat, turning to brown on all sides while keeping the skillet covered.
Can I prepare the sausage mixture in advance?
Yes, you can cover and refrigerate the seasoned mixture for up to 36 hours before cooking to allow the flavors to meld.
Is this turkey sausage recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, it is ideal for meal prep as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
Can I freeze this homemade sausage?
Yes, you can shape the sausage into patties or links and freeze them for later use.
How should I thaw the frozen turkey sausage?
If frozen, the sausage should be thawed in the refrigerator before cooking.
What spices give this sausage its Italian flavor?
The combination of fennel seed, sweet basil, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes provides the classic Italian flavor profile.
What makes this sausage 'sweet'?
The addition of 1.5 teaspoons of brown sugar gives the sausage a subtle sweetness that complements the savory spices.
How many servings does 1 lb of ground turkey yield in this recipe?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 5 servings.
Can I use this sausage as a pizza topping?
Yes, it is perfect as a topping for pizzas, especially when prepared in crumble form.
Is this sausage spicy?
It contains 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, providing a mild heat that is well-balanced by the brown sugar and herbs.
What type of skillet is best for cooking this recipe?
A non-stick skillet is recommended for cooking the turkey sausage over medium heat.
Can I use this sausage in pasta dishes?
Yes, it is highly versatile and works great in various pasta recipes.
Does this recipe include fennel?
Yes, it includes 1 teaspoon of fennel seed, which is a key component of Italian sausage.
Is there nutmeg in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg for added aromatic depth.
Why should I cover the skillet when cooking patties?
Covering the skillet helps the patties or links cook through evenly to the required internal temperature while retaining moisture.
What is the preparation for the ground turkey?
There is no special preparation needed for the turkey; it is used directly from the package and mixed with spices.
How much garlic powder is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
Are cloves used in this sausage?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves is included in the seasoning mix.
Can I serve this sausage on its own?
Yes, it can be served on its own as a delicious high-protein option.
How much black pepper does the recipe require?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of black pepper.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, low-fat alternative to traditional pork-based sausages.
What kind of basil should I use?
The recipe specifies using 2 teaspoons of dried sweet basil leaves.
What culture or cuisine does this recipe belong to?
This recipe is inspired by Italian cuisine.
Can I use the sausage mixture as soon as it is mixed?
Yes, you can cook it immediately, though letting it sit in the fridge helps the flavors meld more effectively.