Breakfast sausage is one of those morning staples that can feel completely off-limits when you're watching iodine intake, since most store-bought versions are loaded with additives, cured salts, and mystery seasonings that make label-reading a full-time job. This homemade version puts you in complete control. Ground pork gets seasoned with sage, thyme, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of onion powder — a blend that smells incredible and tastes like the real deal without any of the processed ingredients you're trying to avoid. A small drizzle of maple syrup is optional but adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory spices beautifully. The air fryer does the heavy lifting here, delivering patties with deep golden-brown edges and a juicy center in just over ten minutes — no greasy skillet required. Mixing the meat just until the seasoning is evenly distributed keeps the texture tender rather than dense, which makes a noticeable difference in the final bite. These patties are satisfying, straightforward, and genuinely something to look forward to on a busy morning.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, sage, thyme, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes and maple syrup if using. Mix with your hands until the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the meat, about 30 seconds — stop as soon as the mixture is uniform to keep the texture tender.
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and press each into a round patty about 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Slightly thinner edges help the patties cook evenly.
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