When it comes to a hearty breakfast, few things compare to the comforting aroma of sizzling sausage on a skillet. This recipe for homemade beef breakfast sausage is simple, flavorful, and made with just a handful of spices that transform everyday ground beef into something special. Instead of traditional round patties, these sausages are shaped like fingers—long and slim—making them cook evenly and look just like the classic breakfast links many people love.
This finger-shaped style makes them perfect for grabbing, dipping, or tucking into a breakfast wrap or sandwich. Cooked in a skillet or on a griddle, the beef sausage browns beautifully on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside. Best of all, this recipe is easy to prepare ahead, store, or freeze, so you can enjoy homemade sausage any day of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Homemade goodness: Fresh, simple ingrediants with no fillers.
- Beef flavor: Ground beef gives the sausage a hearty taste and great texture.
- Breakfast classic: Perfect for morning meals, brunch, or even a quick snack.
- Finger shape: Fun, practical, and reminiscent of traditional breakfast links.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor and juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (olive oil, avocado oil, or your choice)
These ingrediants are simple yet powerful. The beef provides richness, while sage, thyme, and paprika bring the familiar taste of classic breakfast sausage.
Instructions
1. Mix the seasoning
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sage, thyme, red pepper flakes, and salt.
2. Prepare the beef
Place the ground beef in a large bowl. Sprinkle the mixed spices over the beef and gently combine with your hands until the seasoning is evenly spread. Do not overmix—this keeps the sausage tender.
3. Shape the sausage
Instead of forming patties, take small portions of the beef mixture and roll them into finger-shaped logs, about 3 to 4 inches long and ¾ inch thick. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray.
4. Cook on the skillet
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the oil. Place the finger-shaped beef sausages onto the hot surface. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, rolling occasionally, until all sides are browned and the sausage is cooked through in the center.
5. Serve warm
Transfer the sausages to a plate and serve immediately as part of your breakfast spread.
Serving Suggestions
These finger-shaped beef sausages are incredibly versatile:
- Pair them with scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
- Add them to breakfast wraps or rolls for an easy on-the-go meal.
- Serve alongside pancakes or waffles for a sweet-and-savory morning plate.
- Dip them in sauces such as ketchup, mustard, or spicy mayo for a fun brunch option.
Tips and Variations
- Beef choice: Use 80/20 for juiciness. Lean beef can work but may be less moist.
- Shape: Roll into even fingers so they cook at the same rate.
- Spice level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to make the sausage mild or spicy.
- Fresh herbs: Swap dried sage for fresh for a stronger flavor.
- Storage: Make ahead, refrigerate, or freeze finger sausages for quick breakfasts.
- Cooking tip: Rotate the finger-shaped sausages often to ensure even browning on all sides.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store cooked sausage in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Lay uncooked finger sausages on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen or thaw overnight.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This skillet ground beef breakfast sausage is proof that you don’t need complicated ingrediants to create a meal that feels both hearty and special. The finger shape makes these sausages fun to serve and easy to enjoy, whether on a weekend morning with family or as a quick weekday breakfast. Juicy beef, aromatic herbs, and a touch of spice come together in every bite, making these homemade sausages a wholesome alternative to store-bought versions.
With their rich flavor, convenient shape, and versatility, these finger sausages deserve a regular place at your breakfast table. Simple to prepare, delicious to eat, and satisfying to share—they’re everything a homemade breakfast should be.
