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Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe

This elk breakfast sausage is savory, juicy, and easy to make at home. I use a simple seasoning blend and the right fat ratio so the sausage stays flavorful without overpowering the natural taste of elk. Perfect for patties, meal prep, or freezing.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground elk Well trimmed no silver skin
  • ½ lb ground pork Or pork fat for moisture
  • 1 ½ tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp black pepper Fresh ground
  • 1 tsp dried sage Or 1 tbsp fresh chopped
  • ½ tsp dried thyme Or fresh
  • ½ tsp garlic powder Optional
  • ½ tsp onion powder Optional
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup Optional for light sweetness
  • 2 tbsp ice-cold water Helps bind sausage

Equipment

  • 1 Large mixing bowl Stainless steel works best
  • 1 Skillet Cast iron preferred
  • 1 Spatula For flipping patties
  • 1 Measuring spoons For seasonings
  • 1 Meat thermometer Optional but helpful

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Add the ground elk and ground pork to a large mixing bowl. I like to keep the meat slightly chilled before mixing.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Step 2:
  1. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, sage, thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mixing the seasoning first helps it spread evenly.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Step 3:
  1. Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the meat. Using my hands, I gently mix just until everything is combined. I try not to overmix here.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Step 4:
  1. Drizzle in the maple syrup and ice-cold water a little at a time while mixing. The mixture should feel slightly sticky but not wet.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Step 5:
  1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This resting time helps the sausage bind and improves flavor.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Step 6:
  1. Form the mixture into patties about ½-inch thick. I press a small dip in the center so they cook evenly.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Step 7:
  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat with a light coating of oil. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe
Step 8:
  1. Check that the internal temperature reaches 160°F, then remove from the pan and serve warm.
    Elk Breakfast Sausage Recipe

Notes

I always recommend cooking a small test patty before forming the full batch, especially if you’re adjusting seasoning. These patties freeze really well, so I often double the recipe and store extras for busy mornings. If skipping pork, the sausage will be leaner and a bit drier, but still tasty.