Homemade Italian Sausage is a flavorful and versatile ingredient that can elevate a variety of dishes, from pasta to pizza. Making it at home allows you to control the quality of the ingredients and tailor the seasoning to your taste. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, homemade Italian sausage is packed with aromatic herbs, garlic, and just the right amount of fennel seed for that authentic Italian flavor. You can enjoy this sausage on its own, mixed into sauces, or shaped into patties for a delicious homemade meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground pork (or a mix of pork and beef)
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp sugar
- ¼ cup cold water
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork with all the spices: fennel seeds, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), thyme, and sugar.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing with your hands until everything is well combined and the sausage mixture is smooth.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sausage mixture for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- To cook, form the sausage into patties, cook it loose in a skillet, or use it in your favorite recipes. It can be pan-fried, grilled, or added to soups and pasta sauces.
Enjoy your Homemade Italian Sausage as part of your favorite Italian dishes or on its own for a flavorful homemade treat!
