Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is a popular choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage. Made with high-quality turkey meat and a blend of delicious seasonings, it offers a tasty and nutritious addition to your breakfast or any other meal.
If you’re wondering how to cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage to perfection, look no further. This article will guide you through the process and provide helpful tips to ensure a delicious meal every time.
Step 1: Start by preheating a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. This will help prevent the sausages from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Open the package of Jimmy Dean turkey sausage and remove the desired number of sausages. If they are frozen, make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Step 3: Place the sausages in the preheated skillet, making sure they’re evenly spaced. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning. The internal temperature of the sausages should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Step 4: Once the sausages are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices distribute evenly and enhances the overall flavor.
Pro Tip: If desired, you can add some chopped onions, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the skillet for extra flavor and texture. Simply sauté them before adding the sausages or cook them alongside the sausages in the same skillet.
There you have it! With these simple steps, you can easily cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage to perfection. Whether you’re enjoying a classic breakfast with eggs and toast or incorporating it into a delicious recipe, this turkey sausage is sure to satisfy your taste buds while keeping your meal healthy and flavorful.
Preparing for Cooking
Before you start cooking Jimmy Dean turkey sausage, it’s important to properly prepare and organize your ingredients. Follow these steps:
1. Gather the following ingredients and tools:
1 pound of Jimmy Dean turkey sausage | Non-stick skillet |
Olive oil (optional) | Measuring spoons |
Spatula or wooden spoon | Plate lined with paper towels |
2. Remove the Jimmy Dean turkey sausage from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature. This will ensure even cooking.
3. While waiting for the sausage to come to room temperature, set up your cooking station. Place the skillet on the stove and set the heat to medium-high.
4. If desired, add a light drizzle of olive oil to the skillet to prevent the sausage from sticking. This step is optional as the sausage itself may release enough fat to cook without sticking.
5. Use measuring spoons to measure out any additional ingredients that you plan to add to the sausage, such as herbs or spices.
6. Place a plate lined with paper towels nearby. This will be used to drain any excess grease from the cooked sausage.
By following these preparation steps, you will be ready to start cooking your Jimmy Dean turkey sausage with ease and efficiency.
Cooking Methods for Jimmy Dean Turkey Sausage
Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re making a breakfast sandwich, a hearty pasta dish or incorporating it into another recipe, knowing the best cooking methods for this turkey sausage will ensure a delicious result every time.
Pan-Frying:
To pan-fry the Jimmy Dean turkey sausage, start by heating a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Remove the sausage from the packaging and place it in the skillet. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. The internal temperature of the sausage should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
Oven-Baking:
An alternative method for cooking Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is oven-baking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or use a non-stick baking dish. Arrange the sausages on the baking sheet, making sure they are evenly spaced and not touching. Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Grilling:
If you prefer a smoky flavor, grilling the Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is a great option. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the sausages on the hot grill grates, making sure they are not too close together. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when done. Remove from the grill and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
By following these cooking methods, you can enjoy the deliciousness of Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in various dishes. From a quick breakfast to a satisfying dinner, this versatile ingredient is sure to add flavor and protein to your meals.
Pan-Frying the Turkey Sausage
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to pan-fry Jimmy Dean turkey sausage:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat on the stove.
- Remove the sausages from the packaging and place them onto the skillet.
- Cook the sausages for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The sausages should be browned and cooked through.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sausages. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
- Once cooked, transfer the sausages to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
- Let the sausages rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This will help the juices distribute evenly and make the sausages more flavorful.
Now you have perfectly pan-fried Jimmy Dean turkey sausages ready to be enjoyed! They can be served on their own, with eggs, toast, or used in your favorite recipe. Enjoy!
Baking the Turkey Sausage
To bake Jimmy Dean turkey sausage, follow these steps:
Preparation
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
Cooking
1. Place the turkey sausages on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
2. Bake the sausages in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
3. Using oven mitts, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven.
4. Let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the sausages to cool slightly.
Serving
1. Serve the baked turkey sausages hot as a breakfast side dish, in sandwiches, or as a protein-packed addition to your favorite recipes.
2. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Enjoy your deliciously baked Jimmy Dean turkey sausages!
Grilling the Turkey Sausage
Grilling the Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is a delicious and healthy way to cook it. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and a nice char to the sausage, making it the perfect choice for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Here are the steps to grill the turkey sausage:
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the sausages from sticking.
- Prepare the sausages: Remove the turkey sausage from the packaging and place them on a plate. If desired, prick the sausages with a fork to prevent them from bursting while grilling.
- Grill the sausages: Place the sausages on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have grill marks. Use tongs to flip the sausages halfway through cooking.
- Check the temperature: To ensure the sausages are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the grill: Once the sausages are cooked, carefully remove them from the grill using tongs. Place them on a clean plate or serving dish.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the sausages rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve them as is, or slice them and use them in your favorite recipes.
Grilling the Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is a simple and tasty way to enjoy this lean and flavorful meat. Serve it with grilled vegetables, in a bun as a hot dog alternative, or alongside your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!
Serving and Enjoying
Once your Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is cooked and ready to serve, there are many delicious ways to enjoy it. Here are some serving suggestions:
- As a breakfast or brunch option, serve the turkey sausage alongside scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit.
- Add the cooked turkey sausage to a breakfast burrito or wrap along with eggs, cheese, and your favorite vegetables.
- Create a hearty turkey sausage breakfast casserole by combining the cooked sausage with eggs, cheese, bread, and any desired vegetables. Bake until golden and serve hot.
- Make a protein-packed turkey sausage omelette by folding the cooked sausage into a fluffy egg mixture along with cheese and vegetables of your choice.
- Serve the turkey sausage on a toasted English muffin or bagel with melted cheese and a fried egg for a delicious breakfast sandwich.
- For a lighter option, toss the cooked turkey sausage with mixed greens, vegetables, and your favorite dressing to create a flavorful salad.
- Use the turkey sausage as a topping for homemade pizza or flatbread along with your favorite sauce, cheese, and additional toppings.
- Prepare delicious turkey sausage sliders by placing the cooked sausage on mini buns and topping them with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and any desired condiments.
- Create a satisfying turkey sausage and vegetable stir-fry by sautéing the cooked sausage with an assortment of colorful vegetables and serving over rice or noodles.
With these serving suggestions, you can enjoy your Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in a variety of tasty and satisfying ways. Get creative and experiment with different recipes to find your favorite combination!
FAQ
What is Jimmy Dean turkey sausage?
Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is a type of sausage made with turkey meat instead of pork. It is a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausages.
What are the ingredients in Jimmy Dean turkey sausage?
The ingredients in Jimmy Dean turkey sausage typically include ground turkey, water, salt, corn syrup solids, dextrose, spices, and sodium phosphate. The specific ingredients may vary slightly depending on the variety of turkey sausage.
How do I cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage?
To cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage, you can start by preheating a skillet or a frying pan over medium heat. Then, add the sausages to the pan and cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Can I cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in the oven?
Yes, you can cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), place the sausages on a baking sheet, and bake them for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How can I use Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in recipes?
Jimmy Dean turkey sausage can be used in a variety of recipes. You can crumble it and use it as a topping for pizzas, salads, or pasta dishes. It can also be incorporated into breakfast casseroles, omelettes, or stuffed peppers. Get creative and experiment with different dishes!
What is Jimmy Dean turkey sausage?
Jimmy Dean turkey sausage is a type of sausage made from turkey meat, mixed with various spices and seasonings. It is a healthier alternative to traditional pork sausage, as it contains less fat and calories.
Can I cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook Jimmy Dean turkey sausage in the microwave. Simply place the sausage links on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel. Cook on high for 1-2 minutes per link, or until heated through.