Save to Pinterest Maple Apple Turkey Sausage Patties with Herbed Rice delivers cozy fall flavor and weekday ease in every bite. These juicy turkey patties, naturally sweetened with maple and apple, are quick enough for breakfast or a family-friendly dinner. Paired with a soft, herbed rice, this dish brings together comfort and nutrition in one satisfying meal.
I still remember the first chilly Sunday I whipped these up with leftover apples and some ground turkey in my fridge. Now it is a staple my whole family looks forward to: especially with that fragrant herbed rice.
Ingredients
- Ground turkey: provides a lean protein base look for 93 percent lean for juiciest patties
- Apple: grated for sweet moisture choose firm and crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala
- Pure maple syrup: adds deep sweetness always use real maple syrup for best results
- Fresh sage: finely chopped brightens and gives classic sausage vibes buy a lush bunch and use leftovers in the rice
- Onion: finely minced for sweet savor use yellow or sweet onion for a milder flavor
- Fine sea salt: seasons every bite taste before adding more as turkey can be salty
- Black pepper: for subtle warmth crack it fresh for deeper flavor
- Olive oil: for cooking use extra virgin for best browning and aroma
- Cooked white or brown rice: absorbs the herbed butter beautifully use long grain for a fluffier side
- Chopped parsley and chives for the rice: add freshness and color stick to fresh herbs here
- Butter: melts into the hot rice creating a creamy luxurious texture choose unsalted to better control seasonings
- Lemon zest (optional): lifts the rice with a sunny note use a microplane for fine zest with no bitterness
Instructions
- Mix and Shape the Patties:
- Combine ground turkey grated apple maple syrup sage onion salt and pepper in a large bowl Use gloved hands to gently mix until just combined Overmixing can make turkey tough Shape mixture into equal sized patties about half an inch thick Place on a parchment lined tray
- Brown the Sausage Patties:
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat Lay the patties in a single layer Do not overcrowd Sear for about four minutes per side until deeply golden You want a caramelized crust for both taste and looks Reduce heat if browning too quickly
- Finish Cooking:
- Lower heat to medium low and cover the skillet Continue cooking patties for another five minutes or until an instant read thermometer hits one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit Center should be firm clear juices run out Once cooked remove and let rest under foil
- Prepare the Herbed Rice:
- While patties cook add butter to the just cooked warm rice Stir in chopped parsley chives and optional lemon zest until fragrant Taste and season with more salt and pepper as needed Scoop onto plates
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the sausage patties over beds of herbed rice Scatter with more fresh herbs if you love color Serve warm and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite
Save to Pinterest The maple syrup is hands down my favorite part—it gives the patties such a beautiful sheen and depth. My kids actually cheer when they smell the sage and sweet apple as everything sizzles together. It is the kind of meal that lingers in memory.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover sausage patties and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days Warm patties in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to keep them moist Leftover rice can be quickly revived with a drizzle of olive oil or a few drops of water microwaved under a damp paper towel
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fresh sage try a half teaspoon dried but add it early to let the flavor bloom Granny Smith apple can work for a less sweet less juicy patty For dairy free herbed rice swap the butter for your favorite olive oil
Serving Suggestions
Serve these patties with a pile of herbed rice and a quick green salad Try them as breakfast patties with a fried egg on top or nestled inside whole grain buns for a lunchbox treat
Cultural or Historical Context
Apple maple and sage evoke the harvest flavors of early North America Pork sausage was traditional but lean turkey brings a modern healthy twist Many family homes blend fruit and savory together for comfort and to stretch seasonal ingredients
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap apple for grated fresh pear or even zucchini during the summer months Use fresh basil or tarragon in the rice during spring for a lighter vibe Add a sprinkle of dried cranberries to the winter version for holiday color and taste
Success Stories
I have lost count of how many friends asked for this recipe after the first bite It is a go to for new parents and busy families because it tastes just as good leftover My own favorite memory is packing it up for fall picnics—nothing beats it beside a thermos of apple cider
Freezer Meal Conversion
These sausage patties are perfect for make ahead meals Assemble and form raw patties then freeze them separated with parchment in zip top bags Thaw fully overnight before browning and cooking as directed Herbed rice also freezes well—just spread it thin so it thaws evenly
Save to Pinterest This turkey sausage patty and herbed rice combo will make mornings or busy weeknights taste like an autumn celebration. Enjoy every bite—leftovers only get better, too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best for turkey sausage patties?
Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp add flavor and hold texture when cooked with turkey.
- → Can these patties be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape and store uncooked patties in the refrigerator for up to one day before pan-searing.
- → How can I ensure moist and flavorful turkey patties?
Add grated apple and a little maple syrup to ground turkey, and avoid overcooking to retain juiciness.
- → What herbs complement the rice side dish?
Fresh parsley, thyme, and chives give herbed rice a bright, aromatic touch that pairs well with the patties.
- → Are there alternative grains for herbed rice?
You can substitute brown rice, quinoa, or farro for a different texture and added nutrition.