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Grilled beef sausages on a sizzling barbecue

Beef Sausage Recipe

This homemade beef sausage recipe is packed with rich, savory flavors, perfect for grilling, frying, or using in stews and pasta dishes. Made with high-quality ground beef and a blend of aromatic spices, this sausage is easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, this recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful sausage that beats store-bought options.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Baked, Grilled, Pan-fried
Cuisine American, European
Servings 8

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Meat grinder (if grinding fresh beef)
  • Sausage stuffer (optional)
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Plastic wrap or sausage casings
  • Large skillet or grill
  • Meat thermometer

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs ground beef preferably 80/20 fat ratio
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • ½ cup ice-cold water
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Sausage casings optional, for stuffed sausages

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef with all the seasonings, sugar, and vinegar.
  • Add the ice-cold water gradually while mixing to help bind the meat together.
  • Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until everything is well incorporated.
  • Step 2: Rest the Mixture
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Step 3: Form the Sausages
  • If using casings, rinse them in water and soak them as per package instructions.
  • If using a sausage stuffer, load the seasoned beef into the machine and fill the casings, twisting into links as desired.
  • For patty-style sausages, shape the mixture into small patties by hand.
  • Step 4: Cook the Sausages
  • For pan-frying: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sausages for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature of 160°F / 71°C).
  • For grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook the sausages for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  • For baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Notes

For juicier sausages, use at least 20% fat in the ground beef.
You can substitute beef casing with natural or synthetic sausage casings.
If you prefer spicier sausages, increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes.
Leftover sausages can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Keyword Homemade beef sausage, ground beef sausage, spicy beef sausage, easy sausage recipe, grilling sausage, keto beef sausage, no pork sausage