As I came into my house I immediately discerned what was cooking in my kitchen, Hot Sausage! Who was cooking it didn’t matter or if it would be a po-boy or the meat to accompany a meal. All I was concerned about is if there was enough for me.

I will try my best to describe what only a true New Orleans native would relate to regarding Hot Sausage. In New Orleans we prefer the AP Patton brand of Hot Sausage over any brand out there. The smell of it cooking puts a smile on your face, a pep in your step and have your tongue watering in anticipation of that 1st bite. The spicy delicious taste of Patton’s Hot Sausage brings back comforting fond memories for me and my family.

Patton’s Bucket of Links

Only sold in southern parts of the South is the popular red and white bucket of AP Patton brand of hot sausage named after A. P. Patton, a businessman and politician who was famous for his love of hot and spicy food. Patton was a successful businessman who owned a grocery store and sausage factory in the city of Opelousas, Louisiana. He also served as a state legislator and was known for his contributions to the development of the region.

What exactly is Hot Sausage?

It’s not a red hot link, hot Italian sausage, andouille sausage, Cajun sausage or the rest of those sausages. Like everything in New Orleans AP Patton Hot sausage stand alone from the rest. The hot sausage is known for its authentic flavors that have made it so famous in New Orleans is typically made using pork shoulder, pork liver, onions, garlic, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Some recipes may also include other spices such as sage, thyme, or red pepper flakes.

New Orleans Patton’s Hot Sausage made with beef not pork and a magical blend of seasoning and spices. Sausage can come in patty or link form, both taste the same. In links the sausage is in a casing, which can be made from natural or synthetic materials.

How to eat Hot Sausage

Patties are typically served sandwiches such as on a French bread Po-boy, “cheese on mine, please.” Links can be cooked in the casing or squeezed out and formed into patties or meatballs. During the summer hot sausage links are thrown on the BBQ grill. the smoke adds a whole other level of flavor.

Also, I love Hot Sausage served as the breakfast meat with buttery cheesy creamy grits and over easy eggs. Now, that’s a good way to cure a New Orleans Hang Over. If you’ for breakfast or want to try Hot Sausage served any way I highly recommend that you dine at Anita’s Restaurant late night or early morning breakfast. The best grits ever. I do not know how they make something so simple as grits can taste so good.

Anita’s Grill

2122 Tulane Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70112 [Map It]
(504) 523-1542

Neighborhood: Mid-City
Hours: Mon-Sat 6am-2pm, Fri-Sat 10pm-5am, Sun 6:30am-2pm

You do not have to be in New Orleans to try hot sausage as buckets are sold online and shipped all over the world. So if you’re a meat and spice lover and need a taste of New Orleans order a bucket or two of Patton’s Hot Sausage. You won’t be disappointed!