Bison Sausage Recipes That Are Easy and Delicious

Bison sausage offers a deliciously rich and hearty alternative to traditional pork sausage, boasting a robust flavor that’s both lean and packed with protein. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a weekend brunch or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinners, bison sausage is a fantastic choice.

With its lower fat content and earthy taste, it pairs beautifully with a variety of herbs and spices, allowing you to customize your sausage to your exact preferences.

In this post, we’ll explore multiple bison sausage recipes that are simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. From classic breakfast links to spicy Italian-style sausages and savory herb blends, these recipes showcase the versatility of bison meat.

Ready to dive into the world of gourmet sausage making? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bison sausage is not only flavorful but also a healthier alternative to many traditional sausages. It contains less fat and fewer calories, making it ideal for those who want to indulge without excessive guilt.

Additionally, bison’s natural sweetness and lean profile mean it absorbs seasonings beautifully, resulting in a sausage that’s juicy yet not greasy.

Another reason to love these recipes is their versatility. Whether you prefer your sausage spicy, herby, or sweet, there’s a bison sausage recipe here for you.

Plus, making your own sausage at home allows full control over ingredients, avoiding preservatives and additives common in store-bought options.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground bison – freshly ground for best texture
• 1/2 pound ground pork fat – for moisture and flavor (optional but recommended)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 2 tablespoons cold water
• Natural hog casings (if making links)

Equipment

• Meat grinder (if grinding your own bison)
• Sausage stuffer or attachment for your stand mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Thermometer (for checking cooked sausage temperature)
• Plastic wrap or airtight container for chilling

Instructions

1. Prepare the meat: If you haven’t purchased pre-ground bison, grind the bison and pork fat using a meat grinder. Use a coarse grind for a traditional sausage texture.
2. Mix the spices: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and dried sage.
3. Combine meat and spices: Place the ground meat in a large bowl. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over the meat and add 2 tablespoons of cold water. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until the spices are evenly distributed and the mixture is sticky.
4. Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the meat mixture for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and the fat to firm up.
5. Prepare casings: Rinse natural hog casings thoroughly in cold water and soak them for 30 minutes. Flush water through the casings to remove excess salt if using pre-packaged ones.
6. Stuff the sausage: Attach the sausage stuffer to your grinder or stand mixer. Slide the casing onto the nozzle and begin feeding the meat mixture through, being careful not to overfill. Twist the sausages into desired link sizes.
7. Cook or store: You can cook the sausage immediately by pan-frying over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side or grill until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, refrigerate or freeze for later use.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once cooked, serve your homemade bison sausage with your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

“Always keep your meat and equipment cold while making sausage to ensure the best texture and prevent spoilage.”

• Lean Option: Skip the pork fat for an even leaner sausage but expect a slightly drier texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for a smoky heat.
• Sweet and Savory: Mix in a tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar for a breakfast-style sausage.
• Herbaceous: Fresh chopped rosemary or thyme can add a fragrant twist.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Try making a spicy mushroom and walnut “sausage” for a plant-based take.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Bison sausage pairs wonderfully with eggs and toast for a classic breakfast. You can also slice it and add to pasta sauces or casseroles for a protein boost.

For a hearty lunch, serve grilled bison sausage on a bun with sautéed peppers and onions.

Don’t forget to explore complementary flavors like roasted root vegetables, creamy polenta, or a crisp green salad. You can even dice cooked sausage and stir it into scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos for a filling start to your day.

Conclusion

Making your own bison sausage at home is a rewarding culinary endeavor that brings a unique, rich flavor to your table without the extra fat found in many traditional sausages. These recipes offer flexibility to experiment with spices and herbs, ensuring that every batch can be tailored to your taste preferences.

Whether you’re a seasoned sausage maker or a curious beginner, the process is straightforward and the results are delicious.

By choosing bison, you’re also embracing a leaner, more sustainable source of protein, which supports healthy eating without sacrificing flavor. So gather your ingredients, get your hands a little messy, and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade sausage that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

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