Wild Turkey Breakfast Sausage

Ingredients:

• 2 lb boned-out wild turkey leg and thigh meat or breast (learner option) 

• 1 lb raw thick-cut bacon (adds essential fat for moistness)

• 2 tsp kosher salt

• 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 2 Tbsp dried sage

• 2 Tbsp dried thyme

• 1 Tbsp dried rosemary

• 1 Tbsp light brown sugar

• ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  Instructions:

  1. Bone and trim the turkey legs and thighs.

  2. Grind turkey and bacon together (2 : 1 ratio) using a medium plate.

  3. Combine and evenly sprinkle the seasonings over the ground meat; mix thoroughly by hand.

  4. Grind the seasoned mixture a second time for even texture and flavor.

  5. Shape into patties or pack into casings, then fry until fully cooked.

  6. Optionally vacuum-seal for freezing or store in the refrigerator.

Tips for Best Results

• Chill everything: Keep meat and grinder components cold to maintain texture.

• Salt in advance: Let the seasoning sit in the fridge (especially for the lean version) to deepen the flavor—resting overnight works particularly well.

• Freezing note:  freeze well. Shape patties, then flash-freeze on a tray before storing in freezer bags. Great for meal prep!

• Optional sweetness or spice: Add a little maple syrup, brown sugar, or extra red pepper flakes to tailor the taste to your liking.