Italian Sausage Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound freshly ground well-marbled pork butt*
- OR pre-packaged ground pork*
- *can substitute ground chicken
turkey or meat of choice
- 1 tablespoon finely minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon red wine
- 1 tablespoon sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 to 2 teaspoons salt)
(start with less and fry a little of the sausage mixture and taste to decide if you want to add more
- 1 1/2 teaspoons coarsely cracked black peppercorns)
(toast in a dry skillet for a minute or two until fragrant for maximum flavor
- 1 teaspoon coarsely cracked fennel seeds)
(toast in a dry skillet for a minute or two until fragrant for maximum flavor
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes)
(omit if you want a mild sausage
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon dried ground sage
Directions
- 1
Place the ground meat in a bowl and add all remaining ingredients. Use your hands or a stand mixer paddle attachment to thoroughly combine the ingredients. Wrap and chill for at least 6 hours before using, preferably overnight for best flavor.The sausage will keep in the fridge for 3 days or can be frozen, well wrapped, for up to 3 months. Makes 1 pound of ground sausage.
Italian Sausage Recipe
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About this Recipe
Tired of guessing what's in your store-bought Italian sausage? This homemade Italian sausage recipe puts you in control, delivering incredible flavor in just 15 minutes of prep. You'll love knowing exactly what goes into every savory bite, creating a foundation for countless delicious meals.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its emphasis on fresh ingredients and the clever technique of toasting whole spices. By briefly toasting the coarsely cracked black peppercorns and fennel seeds in a dry skillet until fragrant, you unlock their full aromatic potential, infusing the sausage with a depth of flavor that store-bought versions simply can't match. Plus, the ability to customize the spice level means you can tailor it perfectly to your preference, from mild to gloriously spicy.
Expect a deeply aromatic, savory sausage mixture, brimming with classic Italian flavors like garlic, oregano, and a hint of red wine. The well-marbled pork butt provides a rich, satisfying texture, while the blend of fragrant spices creates a complex, irresistible profile. This recipe provides the ultimate base for a variety of dishes, allowing you to enjoy authentic Italian taste with the satisfaction of a truly homemade product.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. While we recommend well-marbled pork butt for the best texture and flavor, you can easily substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option. Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat—omit them entirely for a mild sausage, or add more for extra kick. Don't forget to taste and adjust the salt by frying a small piece before committing to the full amount.
This fresh Italian sausage mixture is perfect for forming into patties, crumbling into pasta sauces, enhancing pizzas, or stuffing into casings for a truly artisanal experience. It's designed to be the star of any Italian-inspired meal.