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delicious homemade italian sausage

Homemade Italian Sausage

This homemade Italian sausage combines quality ground pork with a perfect blend of aromatic spices for authentic flavor without preservatives or additives. The signature fennel seeds and paprika create that classic Italian sausage taste, while allowing you to customize the heat level to your preference.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground lean pork 80-85% lean works best
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • ⅔ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste for heat level
  • 1½ teaspoons salt
  • ⅓ teaspoon fennel seed
  • 3½ teaspoons paprika

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Place the ground pork in a large mixing bowl and allow it to come closer to room temperature for a few minutes to help the seasonings distribute more evenly.
  2. Add all seasonings to the meat: salt, paprika, garlic powder, fennel seed, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  3. Using clean hands, gently mix everything together for 2-3 minutes, incorporating all spices without overworking the meat. Think of it as folding rather than kneading to prevent tough sausage.
  4. Cover the seasoned meat mixture and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight) to allow flavors to fully develop and permeate the meat.
  5. When ready to use, form into patties, crumble for pasta sauce, shape into meatballs, or stuff into casings if desired.

Notes

For best results, don't skimp on the resting time - this allows the flavors to fully develop. The sausage mixture will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking, or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
This recipe is incredibly versatile - try substituting ground turkey for a leaner option (add a tablespoon of olive oil for moisture), or enhance the flavor profile with dried basil and oregano for a more herbaceous taste.
The sausage pairs beautifully with creamy polenta, pasta, roasted peppers and onions, or as the protein in a hearty white bean soup.