Sausage Seasoning Recipe

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If your breakfast sausage tastes a little…meh, this is the fix. This homemade Sausage Seasoning Recipe has the perfect balance of sweet, salty, herby, and just a pinch of heat. You probably have everything you need already, and once you mix it up, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.

It’s simple, fast, and crazy versatile. You can use it for turkey sausage, ground pork, even plant-based crumbles if that’s your thing. Add it to meat, let it sit, and you’re good to go. Plus, there’s a secret ingredient that takes it over the top.

 

Ingredients Needed

• Brown sugar – balances the savory flavors and adds that classic sausage sweetness
• Salt – essential for bringing out all the flavor
• Ground black pepper – adds mild heat and depth
• Dried thyme – earthy and a little minty
• Dried rosemary – piney, fragrant, and perfect in small doses
• Dried sage – the star of the show; gives sausage that “sausage” flavor
• Marjoram – soft, floral, and underrated
• Nutmeg – a tiny bit goes a long way; adds warmth
• Cayenne pepper – just a pinch for that subtle kick
• Smokehouse maple seasoning – totally optional, but this is. my secret ingredient that adds a hint of smokiness and extra depth

Pro Tip: My recipe uses dried herbs, but you can substitute fresh if you’d like. The conversion ratio is 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs to 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.

How to Make Sausage Seasoning

For full recipe details, including ingredients needed and measurements, see the printable recipe card down below.

Step 1: Combine the spices

Add all the ingredients to a small mixing bowl. Make sure the spices are fresh for the best flavor.

Step 2: Mix thoroughly

Use a spoon or small whisk to mix everything together until the seasoning is evenly combined. Break up any clumps so the blend is smooth and consistent.

Step 3: Adjust if needed

Taste a small pinch and adjust the seasoning to your preference – add more salt, spice, or herbs as desired.

Step 4: Store properly

Transfer the seasoning to an airtight container or spice jar. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Tips for Success

• Want patties? Form them after seasoning and chill before cooking to help them hold their shape.
• Mix it right into ground pork or turkey and let it sit in the fridge for 10 -15 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
• Double or triple the batch so it’s ready to go whenever you are.
• Use fresh spices for best flavor – ditch that bottle of sage from 2007.

Storage Instructions

• Make-ahead: Yes. You can prep this mix days or weeks ahead of time.
• Storage: Keep in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry spot – spice cabinet is fine.
• Freezer-friendly: Yep. Store the mix in a labeled zip-top bag and freeze for up to 6 months. Just thaw before using if it clumps.
• In meat: Once you mix it into ground meat, use within 2 days or freeze the seasoned meat immediately.

How to Use Sausage Seasoning

• Homemade Breakfast Sausage of course!
• Biscuits & Sausage Gravy – another obvious choice
• Sausage and Egg Muffins – skip the store bought and make yours completely homemade!
• Overnight Breakfast Casserole with Bread – crowd favorite and perfect for holiday mornings!

This sausage seasoning is your new shortcut to better breakfasts (and way better sausage). One quick mix, and you’re set. The printable recipe card is below. Have a great day, friends! 🙂

FAQ

Can I use this sausage seasoning for chicken or turkey?

Yes! This blend works well with any ground meat.

How do I make it spicy?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

What meat works best with this seasoning?

This blend works well with pork, chicken, turkey, and even beef.

More Sausage Recipes to Try!

• Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
• Smoked Sausage Pasta
• Cornbread Sausage Dressing
• Cajun Sausage Pasta
• Italian Sausage Alfredo

More Homemade Seasonings

• Good Seasoning for Chicken
• McCormick Taco Seasoning Recipe
• Dry Rub for Chicken
• Pulled Pork Rub

If you make this recipe, I would really appreciate it if you would give it a star rating and leave your review in the comments! If you have a picture of your finished dish, post it on Instagram using the hashtag #laurenslatest and tagging me @laurens_latest.