What is the Size of a Sausage Patty?

Sausage patties are a breakfast staple in many households. Their savory flavor and versatility make them a convenient protein option to start the day. But when shopping for sausage patties, you may notice they come in different sizes. So what exactly is the standard size for a sausage patty?

Typical Sausage Patty Sizes

The most common sizes for pre-made frozen or refrigerated sausage patties are

• 2 inches – A smaller “cocktail” size patty.

• 3 inches – The typical size for a breakfast sausage patty Provides a good balance of portability and portion size

• 3.25 inches – A slightly larger than average patty. Still very common.

• 4 inches – A large patty, providing more hearty portion but less portability.

When purchasing patties at a grocery store or restaurant, you’ll usually find options within this range. Of course, you can also make homemade sausage patties to any size you prefer!

Factors that Determine Patty Size

There are a few factors that impact what size sausage patties are produced and sold:

• Portion size – Smaller 2 inch patties provide a lighter breakfast portion, while 4 inch patties make a more substantial meal.

• Sandwich suitability – Average 3 inch patties fit well on a standard bread slice or breakfast sandwich. Larger patties overhang the bread.

• Cooking method – Patties meant for frying on the stovetop are usually a bit smaller since they cook quicker. Larger patties are more often pre-cooked.

• Target market – Cocktail-size patties appeal to dieters. Hearty 4 inch patties appeal to big appetites. The 3 inch size hits the mainstream middle ground.

So patty size is optimized for portion control, preparation method, and consumer preferences. Manufacturers produce a range to meet varying needs.

Popular Brands and Their Sizes

To give a better sense of real-world sausage patty sizes, here are some details on major brands:

• Johnsonville Breakfast Sausage Patties – These fresh pre-made patties are 3.25 inches in diameter and 0.33 inches thick. They have a classically seasoned pork sausage flavor.

• Jimmy Dean Pork Sausage Patties – Jimmy Dean makes both 2.2 ounce (2 inches) and 3.6 ounce (3 inches) frozen patties for consumers. They also have 4 inch pre-cooked patties for foodservice.

• Bob Evans Original Sausage Patties – Bob Evans provides 3.25 inch frozen patties made with fresh pork and a signature seasoning blend.

• Hormel Old Tyme Sausage Patties – Hormel produces a “large diameter” 2.5 ounce frozen patty that is approximately 3 inches round.

As you can see, the most common diameter is between 3 and 3.25 inches for major pre-made brands. This fits into the standard size range for convenience and versatility.

Different Types of Sausage Patties

While traditional breakfast sausage patties dominate the market, you can also find sausage patties in a variety of flavors and formats:

• Pork sausage – Made from ground, seasoned pork. Can have sage, black pepper, herbs and other spices.

• Turkey sausage – Uses lean ground turkey for a lighter alternative. Seasoned similarly to pork sausage.

• Chicken apple sausage – Blends chicken and apple flavors for a sweet twist.

• Pre-cooked patties – Fully cooked frozen patties just need quick reheating.

• Raw fresh patties – Sold refrigerated and need to be cooked before eating.

• Vegan patties – Made from soy, vegetables, grains for plant-based diets.

No matter what main protein or flavor profile used, patties tend to come in the standard sizes already discussed. This allows them to substitute easily in recipes.

Tips for Cooking Sausage Patties

To get the best results from your sausage patties, keep these cooking tips in mind:

• Use a non-stick pan – Sausage can stick to stainless steel. Non-stick prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

• Choose a wide skillet – Patties should lay flat in the pan without crowding to ensure even browning.

• Cook over medium heat – High heat causes excess browning and drying. Better to cook slower over medium.

• Focus heat on the bottom – After flip, cover pan partially to help steam-cook the top of the patty.

• Cook until browned – Internal temperature should reach 160°F. Juices should run clear with no pink spots.

• Drain grease – Blot patties with paper towels after cooking to remove excess grease.

With the right technique, you can achieve tasty, juicy sausage patties for breakfast or any meal!

Making Homemade Sausage Patties

While convenient, store-bought patties often contain preservatives and other additives. For the freshest, healthiest sausage, many people opt to make their own at home. Here are some tips:

• Choose quality sausage meat – Grind your own pork shoulder or buy tubes of raw ground pork from a trusted butcher.

• Mix in desired spices – Sage, pepper, garlic powder, fennel seed, red pepper flakes all work well. Go mild or bold.

• Shape into patties – Roll sausage meat into golf ball sized balls. Flatten into patties 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick, in your desired size.

• Chill thoroughly – This helps patties hold their shape during cooking. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

• Cook as desired – Pan fry, bake, or grill homemade patties until fully cooked.

• Store properly – Freeze uncooked patties in a single layer, separating layers with wax paper. Refrigerate cooked patties up to 4 days.

With homemade sausage you control the ingredients, flavor, and texture. Adjust to suit your personal preferences.

Important Safety Tips

When working with raw meat products like sausage, there are some important safety considerations:

• Always wash hands and cooking surfaces after handling raw sausage patties to prevent cross-contamination.

• Cook patties to an internal temperature of 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer to eliminate bacteria.

• Refrigerate cooked sausage patties within 2 hours and use within 3-4 days for food safety.

• When reheating, reheat fully cooked patties to 165°F.

• Discard patties that have an off smell or appearance.

Following basic food handling guidelines will keep your breakfast sausage safely delicious.

Convenient and Versatile

Sausage patties around 3 inches in diameter offer the perfect balance of portion control, sandwich suitability, and cooking ease. Major brands stick close to this standard size, providing options from 2 to 4 inches to suit different needs. With pre-made frozen patties, homemade sausage, and all types of flavor varieties, there are so many excellent options to fire up your mornings. Sausage patties are convenient, tasty, and flexible. Just be sure to handle raw patties safely, cook thoroughly, and enjoy a classic breakfast tradition.