Homemade Sweet Italian Sausage (Mild or Hot)

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 lbs ground pork (80/20)
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1/4 cup minced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for hot version)
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/4 cup water
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Hog casings (optional)

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 45 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Intermediate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, bread crumbs, cheese, onion, garlic, fennel seeds, paprika, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), white wine (if using), water, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
2. If using hog casings, soak them in cold water for at least 15 minutes before stuffing.
3. Fill the sausage stuffer with the sausage mixture and attach the desired casing.
4. Crank the sausage into the casings, creating sausages of your desired length.
5. If you do not have a sausage stuffer, you can form the mixture into patties.
6. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
7. Grill the sausages or patties for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through, turning occasionally.
8. Let the sausages or patties rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1 patty):

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Juicy and flavorful
• Mild or spicy, depending on your preference
• Pairs well with a variety of dishes, such as pasta, sandwiches, or grilled vegetables

User Comments:

• "The perfect sausage for any occasion!"
• "So easy to make and so delicious!"
• "The sweet Italian version is my favorite!"
• "I love the spicy version with a dollop of mustard!"
• "This is my go-to recipe for homemade sausage."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure the sausage is cooked through by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
• If you are using hog casings, rinse them well before stuffing to remove any excess salt.
• You can adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the sausage to your preference by adding more or less sugar or red pepper flakes.
• The sausage can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.