We’ve always been fascinated by the Lincoln Sausage Recipe, a rustic American classic that harks back to hearty, no-fuss traditions. Originating from the heartlands it’s said to evoke Abraham Lincoln’s era this savory dish combines simple ingredients for a comforting meal that warms the soul.
Our take on it brings bold flavors to your kitchen making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend feasts. We love how it balances spice and smokiness ensuring every bite tells a story of heritage and home.
Ingredients
In our Lincoln Sausage Recipe, we draw from traditional American roots, selecting simple yet flavorful ingredients that capture the rustic essence and bold spices highlighted in the dish’s heritage. This ensures a comforting, authentic meal that balances smokiness and warmth.
To prepare our recipe, we start with the foundational elements, followed by aromatics and seasonings. Here’s a detailed list of ingredients, ordered as they are used in the cooking process:
- Ground pork: 1 pound, freshly ground and chilled to maintain texture and juiciness as the base of our Lincoln Sausage.
- Garlic cloves: 3 medium cloves, minced for adding aromatic depth early in mixing.
- Yellow onion: 1 medium, finely diced to enhance flavor when combined with the meat.
- Fresh sage leaves: 2 tablespoons, chopped to introduce earthy notes that tie into the dish’s historical spices.
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon, for infusing herbal warmth during seasoning.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, kosher variety, to season the mixture and draw out flavors.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground for a subtle kick that complements the sausage’s smokiness.
- Red pepper flakes: ¼ teaspoon, for a hint of heat that elevates the traditional profile without overwhelming.
- Egg: 1 large, beaten to act as a binder and ensure the sausage holds together when formed.
These ingredients, measured precisely, allow us to craft a Lincoln Sausage that’s not only easy to prepare but also rich in sensory appeal—from the savory aroma of sizzling meat to the satisfying, spiced bite.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Lincoln Sausage Recipe with precision and ease, we gather the right tools and equipment that enhance efficiency and safety in the kitchen. These items ensure that blending flavors and cooking the sausages results in that perfect balance of spice and smokiness we love.
Essential Tools List
We recommend the following tools, organized by the sequence of use in the recipe process. This setup allows for seamless preparation from mixing to cooking:
- Large mixing bowl: For combining ground pork, garlic, onion, and herbs; opt for a sturdy, non-slip bowl to handle the mixture without spills.
- Sharp chef’s knife: Essential for finely chopping yellow onion and garlic; a high-quality knife ensures clean cuts and minimizes injury risk.
- Cutting board: Use a durable wooden or plastic board to provide a stable surface for prep work; sanitize it thoroughly to maintain hygiene.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate for measuring salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and other spices; we prefer stainless steel sets for their precision and longevity.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing ingredients evenly; choose a heat-resistant one for later cooking steps.
- Skillet or frying pan: A non-stick or cast-iron pan, at least 10 inches in diameter, for cooking the sausages to achieve a golden, smoky crust.
- Meat thermometer: Crucial for checking internal temperature (aim for 160°F) to ensure the sausages are safely cooked; this prevents overcooking and locks in moisture.
| Tool | Recommended Specification | Purpose in Recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Meat Thermometer | Digital, with probe | Monitors internal temp to 160°F for food safety |
| Skillet | 10-12 inches, non-stick | Ensures even browning and heat distribution |
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools prepared, let’s walk through the steps of our Lincoln Sausage Recipe with precision and ease. We’ll ensure every detail delivers the bold, smoky flavors that make this traditional dish a favorite.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep our key ingredients to build the foundation of our Lincoln Sausage Recipe. Start by peeling and finely chopping 1 medium yellow onion and mincing 4 cloves of garlic for a fresh, aromatic base. Next, measure out 2 pounds of ground pork to ensure the right meaty texture, then chop 2 tablespoons of fresh sage and gather 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for that signature spice blend, and crack 1 large egg to act as a binder. This preparation enhances the dish’s savory aroma and balanced heat, setting the stage for a truly authentic experience.
Mix the Sausage
With our ingredients ready, we combine them in a large mixing bowl to create the hearty mixture for our Lincoln Sausage Recipe. Add the ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh sage, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and egg to the bowl, then use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything thoroughly by hand for about 2-3 minutes until evenly incorporated. We aim for a cohesive, slightly sticky texture that promises a juicy, flavorful bite—feel the herbs release their earthy scents as you blend, building excitement for the spiced smokiness ahead.
Cook the Sausage
We transform the mixture into golden, flavorful sausages in our skillet, capturing the essence of our Lincoln Sausage Recipe. Shape the mixture into 8 patties, each about 1/2-inch thick, and heat a skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of oil. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, as measured by a meat thermometer—listen for the satisfying sizzle and watch for a rich, browned crust that locks in the bold spices and smoky depth. This step ensures safety and maximizes the dish’s comforting, hearty appeal.
Serve
Finally, we plate our freshly cooked Lincoln Sausage for a simple yet memorable finish. Arrange the hot patties on a serving platter alongside steamed greens or toasted bread to complement the spiced flavors, and serve immediately while the sausages are warm and tender. For an authentic touch, we recommend pairing with a side of applesauce to balance the heat, creating a visually appealing and sensory-rich meal that highlights the recipe’s heritage.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the joys of our Lincoln Sausage Recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We can prepare the mixture in advance to preserve that bold, smoky flavor and rustic charm, making it easier to enjoy this heritage dish on any occasion. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also allows the spices to meld, deepening the savory aroma and spiced bite.
Preparing the Mixture Ahead
To get started, we mix the Lincoln Sausage ingredients as outlined in the previous section—combining ground pork, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh sage, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and the egg in a large bowl. Shape the mixture into patties immediately after mixing to ensure even distribution of flavors. This step helps maintain the patties’ texture and prevents drying out during storage.
Storage Options
For optimal freshness and safety, we store the prepared patties using these methods:
- Refrigeration: Place the uncooked patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This method is ideal for meals within the next 48 hours, as it allows the herbs and spices to infuse the pork with even more depth.
- Freezing: For longer storage, arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with wax paper. Frozen patties can last up to 3 months, locking in that comforting, smoky essence for future use.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 2 days | Use within 48 hours; thaw if needed before cooking. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for safe handling. |
Reheating and Cooking Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy, we thaw and cook the Lincoln Sausage patties with care to retain their authentic taste and tender texture. If refrigerated, cook directly from the fridge. For frozen patties, thaw them in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours to avoid uneven cooking.
Follow these steps for reheating:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a light coating of oil.
- Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F using a meat thermometer.
- Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to enhance the juicy, flavorful profile.
By planning ahead, we ensure our Lincoln Sausage Recipe remains a simple yet satisfying tribute to traditional American cooking, ready to complement sides like steamed greens whenever we need a quick, hearty meal.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing the Lincoln Sausage Recipe and its rich heritage
It’s a simple way to bring bold flavors and tradition into our everyday meals
Let’s fire up our skillets and enjoy this timeless dish together—it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lincoln Sausage Recipe?
The Lincoln Sausage Recipe is a traditional American dish inspired by rustic cooking from Abraham Lincoln’s era. It uses simple ingredients like ground pork, herbs, and spices to create a comforting meal with bold flavors of spice and smokiness. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, it celebrates heritage and home-cooked simplicity.
What ingredients are needed for the Lincoln Sausage Recipe?
Key ingredients include ground pork, garlic, yellow onion, fresh sage, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and an egg. These elements enhance flavor and texture, capturing the dish’s rustic essence. Everything is easy to find and combines for a balanced, savory result.
What tools are required to prepare the Lincoln Sausage Recipe?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for prepping, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a spatula or wooden spoon for mixing, a skillet for cooking, and a meat thermometer for safety. These tools ensure efficient and safe preparation.
How do you make the Lincoln Sausage Recipe?
Start by prepping ingredients: chop onion, mince garlic, and measure everything. Mix in a bowl, shape into patties, and cook in a skillet until they reach the right internal temperature. Serve with sides like steamed greens or applesauce for a complete, flavorful meal that honors its heritage.
Can I make the Lincoln Sausage Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the mixture in advance to let flavors deepen. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, cook patties fresh or reheat gently to maintain texture and taste. This makes it ideal for busy schedules while keeping the rustic charm intact.