Poor Man'S Sausage

Prep: 4320 min Cook: 540 min Cuisine: American

A flavorful homemade sausage alternative with smoky, savory notes, perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly, hearty meat option with a distinctive taste profile.

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Ingredients

  • liquid smoke
  • garlic salt
  • mustard
  • curing salt
  • coarse pepper
  • hamburger

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients thoroughly and knead the mixture.
  2. Refrigerate the mixture for 3 days, kneading and mixing each day.
  3. On the fourth day, set the oven to 160°C (320°F).
  4. Shape the mixture into loaves and place on a broiler pan.
  5. Bake for 9 hours, turning the loaves after 4.5 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding finely chopped onions or bell peppers to the mixture. If you can't find curing salt, you might replace it with a mix of kosher salt and sugar, but be aware it won't have the same preserving effect. Mixing the ingredients in a stand mixer can save time and ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Poor Man's Sausage sliced with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Easy Eggs Benedict for a hearty brunch or can be enjoyed in a sandwich with mustard. Consider adding a side of Nancy's Cajun Baked Beans for a complete meal that celebrates American recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the loaves wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, slice the loaves and warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until hot.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Poor Man'S Sausage contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.

4 kcal
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.2g
Total Fat 0.2g
Carbs 0.3g
Fiber 0g
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 8mg
Potassium 4.5mg
Cholesterol 0.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.3mg
Calcium 2.8mg
Iron 0mg
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, though the flavor will differ. Pork recipes may also work well, but adjust seasoning accordingly to enhance the meat's natural flavors.

What can I do if the mixture is too dry?

If the mixture seems dry, you can add a splash of beef broth or water to moisten it. Be cautious not to add too much, as it could affect the texture of the final product.

How can I tell when the sausage is done cooking?

The sausage should reach an internal temperature of at least 70°C (160°F) to ensure it is cooked through. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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