Recipe Intro Note: For fullest flavor, refrigerate these links overnight and cook them up in the morning. But for those who are into instant gratification at breakfast time, buy the beef already ground, mix the meat and seasonings when you get up, shape the mixture into patties, and fry them in a skillet until browned on both sides. A teaspoon of cayenne sparks up the flavor if you like yours hot.

Cut the meat and fat into 1-inch cubes. Freeze the cubes for about 30 minutes to firm them up before grinding.

Grind the meat and fat through the fine disk of a meat grinder. Add the salt, sage, black pepper, cayenne (if using), and thyme. Mix well, using your hands.

Let sausage mix sit to mix flavor (0 hours - overnight)

Fry in a skillet until well browned.