Are you looking for a side dish that's both comforting and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This French Canadian meat stuffing recipe is a family favorite, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. It's bursting with savory herbs, tender sausage, and the perfect balance of textures that will leave everyone wanting more. This easy recipe is surprisingly quick to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, even on busy weeknights. Get ready for a delicious journey into the heart of French Canadian cuisine!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields enough stuffing for a 12-14 pound turkey or can be served as a stand-alone dish.
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (pork or a blend), removed from casings
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (challah or a hearty white bread works best)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
This step-by-step guide ensures a perfectly cooked and flavorful stuffing every time.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onion, celery, and mushrooms (if using) and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the delicious base of your stuffing.
Step 2: Blend the Flavors
Stir in the thyme, sage, rosemary, black pepper, and allspice. Cook for another minute, allowing the herbs to release their fragrance. This is where the magic happens – the blend of herbs creates a truly authentic French Canadian flavor.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture with the bread cubes, chicken broth, and milk or cream. Gently toss to ensure the bread is evenly moistened. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the stuffing mushy.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake (or not!)
If using for a turkey, carefully spoon the stuffing into the cavity. If preparing the stuffing as a side dish, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. For a side dish, you can also cook it on the stovetop in a covered pot for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stuffing:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with other herbs and spices! A dash of nutmeg or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a unique twist.
- If your bread is very dry, you may need to add a little more broth or milk.
- For a crispier topping, broil the stuffing for the last few minutes of baking.
Variations:
- Cranberry Stuffing: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the stuffing mixture for a sweet and tart twist.
- Apple Stuffing: Incorporate 1 cup of diced apples along with the other vegetables for a delightful autumnal flavor.
- Vegetarian Stuffing: Replace the sausage with 1 cup of cooked lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This French Canadian meat stuffing recipe is a true culinary delight, a perfect blend of savory and comforting flavors. Whether you're serving it as a traditional Thanksgiving side or enjoying it as a hearty meal on its own, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!