Before diving into sausage stuffing, let’s talk about what can enhance the entire dining experience. First off, gravy is a classic. A rich, flavorful gravy brings moisture to the stuffing and ties everything together.
Then there’s cranberry sauce. This sweet and tangy condiment complements the savory elements beautifully. Don’t forget about roasted vegetables—carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes bring warmth and color to the plate. A light green salad adds a refreshing contrast, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Now, onto the juicy details.
When it comes to comfort food during the holidays, few things rival the warmth and satisfaction of a well-prepared sausage stuffing. I remember the first time I had this dish. It was at my grandmother’s table during Thanksgiving. The aroma filled the room, and with each bite, I tasted love and tradition. Let’s just say, sausage stuffing is not just a side dish; it’s an experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes sausage stuffing so special, why this particular recipe shines, and how to whip it up effortlessly in your kitchen. Get ready for a savory journey!
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What is Sausage Stuffing?
Sausage stuffing combines bread (or stuffing cubes) with various ingredients, including sausage, vegetables, herbs, and broth. When baked, it transforms into a savory dish that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
The flavor marriage is no accident; it celebrates various textures and tastes. The sausage adds depth while the herbs brighten the dish, making it perfect for festive gatherings.
Why This Recipe Works
This sausage stuffing recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it uses high-quality ingredients. The combination of fresh herbs, savory sausage, and a rich broth creates a harmonious flavor profile.
Secondly, it’s straightforward. Even if you’re not a culinary expert, following this recipe leads to delightful results. Lastly, the versatility allows for customization, so you can adapt it to your taste.
What You’ll Need to Make this Dish
To prepare a delicious sausage stuffing, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped sage
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 pound bulk sweet Italian sausage
- 1 cup diced celery (from 3 celery stalks)
- 1½ cups diced yellow onion (from 1 large onion)
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- 8 cups (400g) store-bought unseasoned stuffing cubes
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
How to Make Sausage Stuffing
Get your apron on. We’re about to create something fantastic and warm! Below are the detailed steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the celery and onion, chop the garlic and herbs, and remove the sausage from its casing. This simple prep work makes the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half a stick of butter. Add the sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. This step fills your home with mouth-watering scents!
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Once the sausage is cooked, toss in the diced onion and celery. To that mix, add a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until the vegetables soften, approximately 5-7 minutes. At this point, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting a flavor base.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage and veggie mixture with the stuffing cubes, broth, and beaten egg. Add in the fresh herbs—sage, parsley, and rosemary. Blend everything gently but thoroughly. You want the stuffing to be moist but not soggy.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish with the remaining butter. Pour the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. The anticipation builds here. Don’t forget to press it down lightly for an even bake!
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and allow it to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell like heaven.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Stuffing
- Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh, high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on the Herbs: Fresh herbs make a significant difference. They brighten the dish immensely.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a drier stuffing, reduce the broth slightly. If you like it moist, you can add more.
- Customize Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to add extra vegetables or even dried fruits like cranberries for a twist!
- Make Ahead: This stuffing can be prepared a day in advance. Just refrigerate it, then bake when ready.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers? Not a problem! Allow the stuffing to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days. Want to extend that life? Pop it in the freezer for three months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Nutrition Information
Let’s talk nutrition. This recipe provides many benefits, including protein from the sausage and fiber and vitamins from the vegetables. Depending on the serving size, here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.
How Would I Recommend Serving Sausage Stuffing?
- As a Thanksgiving Side: Pair it with turkey and cranberry sauce for the ultimate holiday meal.
- Accompanied by Gravy: Drizzle warm gravy on top for added moisture and flavor.
- In a Stuffed Bell Pepper: Mix leftover stuffing with some roasted bell peppers for a creative twist.
- With a Simple Salad: Balance the hearty stuffing with a fresh salad that includes mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?
- Change the Sausage: If sweet Italian sausage is hard to find, try ground chicken or turkey for a leaner alternative.
- Broth Varieties: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, but keep an eye on flavor intensity.
- Herbs: If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs. Just adjust the quantities since dried herbs are more potent.
- Stuffing Cubes: In a pinch, you can use day-old bread instead of pre-packaged cubes. Just cube it and dry it out in the oven.
Conclusion
Sausage stuffing is more than just a dish; it’s an invitation to gather, celebrate, and relish good food together. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also simple enough for any home cook to master.
Whether served at a holiday feast or as a cozy winter side, this stuffing will undoubtedly warm hearts and bellies alike. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Sausage Stuffing – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Description
When it comes to comfort food during the holidays, few things rival the warmth and satisfaction of a well-prepared sausage stuffing. I remember the first time I had this dish. It was at my grandmother’s table during Thanksgiving. The aroma filled the room, and with each bite, I tasted love and tradition. Let’s just say, sausage stuffing is not just a side dish; it’s an experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore what makes sausage stuffing so special, why this particular recipe shines, and how to whip it up effortlessly in your kitchen. Get ready for a savory journey!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Get your apron on. We’re about to create something fantastic and warm! Below are the detailed steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the celery and onion, chop the garlic and herbs, and remove the sausage from its casing. This simple prep work makes the cooking process smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
-
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half a stick of butter. Add the sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir occasionally until it’s browned and cooked through. This step fills your home with mouth-watering scents!
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
-
Once the sausage is cooked, toss in the diced onion and celery. To that mix, add a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté until the vegetables soften, approximately 5-7 minutes. At this point, you’re not just cooking; you’re crafting a flavor base.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
-
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage and veggie mixture with the stuffing cubes, broth, and beaten egg. Add in the fresh herbs—sage, parsley, and rosemary. Blend everything gently but thoroughly. You want the stuffing to be moist but not soggy.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
-
Grease a baking dish with the remaining butter. Pour the stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. The anticipation builds here. Don’t forget to press it down lightly for an even bake!
Step 6: Bake
-
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and allow it to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown on top. As it bakes, your kitchen will smell like heaven.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 30g10%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh, high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on the Herbs: Fresh herbs make a significant difference. They brighten the dish immensely.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a drier stuffing, reduce the broth slightly. If you like it moist, you can add more.
- Customize Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to add extra vegetables or even dried fruits like cranberries for a twist!
Make Ahead: This stuffing can be prepared a day in advance. Just refrigerate it, then bake when ready.
