How to Make Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Seasoning at Home

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning is the secret behind the rich, savory, and slightly sweet flavor of the iconic breakfast sausage loved by many. This perfectly balanced blend of herbs and spices gives the sausage its signature taste, making it a staple on breakfast tables across the country.

If you’ve ever wanted to recreate that delicious flavor at home, you’re in the right place! By using simple pantry ingredients, you can make your own homemade Jimmy Dean-style sausage seasoning—free from preservatives and fully customizable to your taste.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to help you craft the perfect breakfast sausage seasoning. Let’s dive in!

What Makes Jimmy Dean Breakfast Sausage Seasoning Special?

The Perfect Blend of Spices

The key to Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning lies in a balanced mix of spices that enhance its savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic flavor.

• Sage: The dominant herb, providing a warm, earthy, and peppery taste essential for classic breakfast sausage.
• Thyme: A subtle but crucial ingredient, adding a mild floral and peppery undertone that complements the richness of the meat.
• Fennel Seeds: The secret to an authentic sausage flavor, contributing a slight sweetness and mild licorice note that balances the seasoning.

When combined with other spices like salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, this blend creates the signature taste that makes Jimmy Dean sausage so irresistible.

Savory and Slightly Sweet Flavor

The balance between savory and slightly sweet flavors is key to the unique taste of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning.

• Brown Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness and enhances the savory richness of the pork, with its molasses providing a deeper flavor.
• Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the meat and spices, helping retain moisture and boost the overall seasoning.
• Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat, counteracting the sweetness and preventing the sausage from being too bland or sugary.

Together, these ingredients create a well-rounded, flavorful seasoning that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Customizing the Spice Level

You can easily adjust the spice level of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning to suit your taste. Here’s how:

• Milder Sausage: Reduce black pepper, omit red pepper flakes or paprika, or use sweet paprika instead of hot or smoked versions.
• Spicier Sausage: Add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot paprika for a kick, or incorporate chipotle for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Balancing Spice: If you increase the heat, add a bit more brown sugar to maintain sweetness and prevent the sausage from becoming too hot.

These adjustments allow you to tailor the flavor to your preferred level of heat, ensuring the perfect sausage every time!

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Breakfast Sausage Seasoning

Core Spices for Authentic Flavor

The core spices that create the authentic Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage flavor are sage, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Here’s how they contribute to the seasoning:

• Sage: The dominant herb, providing a warm, earthy, and slightly peppery flavor, essential to classic breakfast sausage.
• Thyme: Adds a subtle, earthy, and slightly minty note, enhancing the complexity of the sausage without overpowering other flavors.
• Black Pepper: Introduces a mild heat that balances sweetness and enhances the overall savory flavor.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the sausage savory, juicy, and well-seasoned.

These spices form the foundation of the sausage’s distinctive flavor, creating a perfect balance of savory and aromatic notes.

Sweet and Smoky Enhancements

The addition of brown sugar, paprika, and fennel seeds creates a balanced flavor profile for Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage, adding sweetness, smokiness, and depth.

• Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness that balances savory flavors and enhances the sausage’s overall richness.
• Paprika: Provides smoky undertones, deepening the flavor and adding a barbecue-style richness to the sausage.
• Fennel Seeds: Contributes a subtle sweetness and aromatic touch, enhancing the overall complexity without overpowering the other spices.

Together, these ingredients ensure a well-rounded, flavorful sausage with the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory notes.

Optional Add-ins for a Unique Taste

Adding garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes can elevate your Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning with unique flavors:

• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth and rich umami, enhancing the sausage without overpowering it.
• Onion Powder: Brings a mildly sweet and savory flavor, balancing the spices and adding complexity.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a subtle heat for those who enjoy a bit of spiciness, which can be adjusted to taste.

These optional ingredients allow for personalized seasoning to suit your preferred flavor profile, whether you want a spicier sausage or one with extra savory richness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Own Sausage Seasoning

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

To create the best Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning, start by gathering fresh, high-quality spices and ingredients. Fresh spices ensure vibrant flavors, while using fresh ground pork is essential for texture and flavor.

• Key Spices: Sage, thyme, black pepper, salt, brown sugar, paprika, and fennel seeds are essential for the seasoning. Optional add-ins like garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes allow customization.
• Quality Meat: Use pork with a 70% lean to 30% fat ratio for a juicy sausage. Leaner options like turkey or chicken can be substituted.
• Measurement: Accurate measurement of spices is crucial for flavor balance. Start small to adjust seasoning to your liking.

Tip: Toast whole spices and grind them fresh for the best flavor. Combine all dry ingredients before mixing with the meat for even distribution.

This careful preparation ensures a well-seasoned, flavorful homemade sausage.

Step 2: Measure and Mix

For a perfectly balanced Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning, measuring and mixing the ingredients accurately is key. Here’s a breakdown for a one-pound batch of sausage:

• 1 tablespoon sage
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds

Adjust the proportions based on personal preferences, such as adding red pepper flakes for heat or smoking paprika for extra depth.

Once the spices are measured, mix them thoroughly to ensure uniform distribution. Then, gradually add the seasoning to the meat, mixing by hand to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the sausage too dense.

Tip: Test the seasoning in a small batch before mixing the entire batch to ensure the perfect flavor.

Step 3: Store for Maximum Freshness

To keep your Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning fresh and flavorful, proper storage is key:

1. Use Airtight Containers: Store your seasoning in glass jars or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent exposure to air and moisture.
2. Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Keep the container in a cool, dry, dark area like a pantry or spice cabinet to prevent the spices from degrading due to heat and light.
3. Date and Label: To keep track of freshness, mark the container with the preparation date. Use the seasoning within 6 months to 1 year for optimal flavor.
4. Refresh as Needed: If the seasoning loses potency, re-grind whole spices or add a bit more key ingredients to restore flavor.
5. Freezing for Long-Term Storage (Optional): For long-term storage, you can freeze the seasoning in a freezer-safe container, but allow it to thaw at room temperature before use.

Proper storage ensures that your seasoning retains its full flavor and is ready to enhance your sausage whenever needed.

How to Use Your Homemade Sausage Seasoning

Mixing with Ground Pork

To create perfectly seasoned sausage, follow these key steps:

1. Ideal Seasoning Ratio: Use about 1 tablespoon of seasoning per pound of ground pork. Adjust based on your flavor preferences.
2. Mix Evenly: For small batches, mix by hand gently to avoid overworking the meat. For larger batches, use a stand mixer on low speed.
3. Test the Flavor: Cook a small test patty to check the seasoning. Adjust if necessary before shaping the rest of the sausage.
4. Avoid Over-Mixing: Mix just enough to combine the seasoning, as over-mixing can make the sausage tough.
5. Let the Meat Rest: Allow the sausage mixture to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Following these steps ensures your sausage has the perfect seasoning balance and a tender, juicy texture.

Cooking Techniques for Authentic Flavor

Here’s a summary of the best cooking methods for Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage:

1. Pan-Frying: Cook sausage patties or crumbles in a heated skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Ideal for crispy edges and juicy interiors.
2. Grilling: Grill sausages over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side to develop smoky, charred flavors. Brush with maple syrup or BBQ sauce for extra sweetness.
3. Baking: Bake sausages on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes.
4. Sautéing: Crumble sausage and sauté in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until browned. Great for crumbled sausage in scrambles or sauces.
5. Slow Cooker: Cook sausage on low heat for 4-6 hours for a tender, flavorful result, perfect for larger batches or crumbled sausage.

Choose the method that suits your preference for texture and flavor, and enjoy your perfectly cooked sausage!

Other Uses for This Seasoning Blend

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning is versatile and can be used in various dishes:

1. Turkey Sausage: Use the seasoning with ground turkey for a leaner sausage alternative. It adds rich flavor while keeping the sausage juicy.
2. Meatballs: Incorporate the seasoning into meatball recipes, enhancing the flavor for pasta dishes or appetizers.
3. Breakfast Casseroles: Add the seasoning to casseroles for a savory, well-seasoned flavor, especially when combined with sausage, eggs, and cheese.
4. Breakfast Scrambles: Mix the seasoning with eggs or ground sausage for a flavorful scramble, perfect for breakfast.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like sweet potatoes or brussels sprouts with the seasoning for a savory, aromatic side dish.
6. Soups and Stews: Add to soups or stews for a depth of flavor, especially in hearty dishes like chili or vegetable stews.
7. Sausage Gravy: Use the seasoning to make classic sausage gravy, perfect for serving over biscuits or potatoes.

This seasoning blend adds delicious depth to a variety of meals, making it a kitchen staple for more than just sausage!

Tips for Perfecting Your Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Adjusting Spice Levels to Your Preference

You can easily adjust the spice levels in Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning to suit your taste:

1. Milder Flavor: Reduce or omit red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper, and increase brown sugar to balance out the heat. You can also decrease the amount of sage and thyme for a gentler flavor.
2. Spicier Flavor: Add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chili powder for extra heat. You can also incorporate fresh chili peppers like jalapeños for a fresh kick.
3. Balanced Heat and Flavor: Adjust the salt-to-spice ratio to keep the heat balanced and add more herbs and spices. Increasing brown sugar can also help balance excessive heat.
4. Personalize with Favorite Heat Sources: Try adding chipotle powder, Sriracha, or horseradish for a unique spicy flavor.

This flexibility lets you create the perfect seasoning blend, whether you like it mild or spicy.

Pairing with Breakfast Dishes

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning pairs well with a variety of breakfast dishes:

1. Sausage and Eggs: Serve with scrambled, fried, or poached eggs for a classic and hearty breakfast.
2. Sausage and Pancakes: The savory sausage complements the sweetness of pancakes, especially with maple syrup or fruit compote.
3. Sausage and Biscuits: Use the seasoning to make sausage gravy for a traditional biscuits and gravy dish.
4. Sausage and Hash Browns: Sausage adds flavor to crispy hash browns, or mix crumbled sausage into them as they cook.
5. Sausage and Waffles: Pair with waffles and drizzle with honey or syrup for a sweet-savory combo.
6. Sausage Breakfast Burritos: Combine sausage with eggs, cheese, and toppings in a flour tortilla for a portable breakfast option.
7. Sausage and Avocado Toast: Top toast with mashed avocado, sausage, and a poached egg for a modern twist.

This seasoning enhances classic and creative breakfast combinations, making each dish flavorful and satisfying.

Making a Bulk Batch for Convenience

Making a bulk batch of Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning is an efficient way to save time. Here’s how to do it:

1. Scaling the Recipe: Multiply the ingredients based on how much sausage you plan to make, ensuring consistency in flavor.
2. Proper Storage: Store the seasoning in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to preserve freshness. To remember when the jars were manufactured, date and label them.
3. Using Over Time: Shake the jar before using, and always use a clean spoon. For optimal flavor, use it within six months.
4. Versatility: You can use the seasoning in other dishes like meatballs, turkey sausage, breakfast casseroles, or as a seasoning for roasted vegetables.
5. Adjusting the Flavor: Tweak the seasoning over time by adding more sweetness, heat, or herbs to suit your taste.

Making a bulk batch ensures you always have delicious seasoning ready for your breakfast dishes or other recipes!

FAQs

Can I use this seasoning for other meats besides pork?

Yes, you can! While this seasoning is designed for pork sausage, it works great with ground turkey, chicken, or even beef. The spices and herbs in the blend add fantastic flavor to any ground meat, so feel free to experiment!

How long does the seasoning last when stored?

When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, the seasoning can last up to 6 months to a year. To maintain its best flavor, try to use it within that time frame.

Can I adjust the spice level of the seasoning?

Absolutely! You can make the seasoning as spicy or mild as you like by adjusting ingredients like cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or black pepper. If you prefer a milder version, reduce these ingredients, or if you like it hotter, increase them.

Can I make this seasoning in bulk?

Yes, making a bulk batch of this seasoning is a great idea for convenience. Simply scale up the recipe, store the seasoning in airtight containers, and use it over time for multiple batches of sausage or other recipes. Just remember to shake the seasoning before each use to keep the spices well-mixed.

Conclusion

Jimmy Dean breakfast sausage seasoning offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors that can elevate your homemade sausage recipes. With ingredients like sage, thyme, and fennel seeds, this seasoning brings an authentic and rich taste to your dishes. Whether you’re making breakfast sausages, turkey sausage, or even meatballs, this versatile blend can be customized to fit your spice preferences. By making a bulk batch and storing it properly, you’ll always have a convenient seasoning ready to enhance your meals. Enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade sausage with this simple and flavorful seasoning blend!