Are you ready to elevate your Thanksgiving feast – or any weeknight dinner – with a deliciously flavorful and completely gluten-free sausage stuffing? This recipe is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet or simply seeking a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional stuffing. It’s bursting with savory herbs, juicy sausage, and tender vegetables, making it a crowd-pleaser for everyone at the table. Say goodbye to gluten-induced tummy troubles and hello to a stuffing so good, it’ll be the star of the show! This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs looking for a delicious and healthy alternative.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound gluten-free Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups gluten-free bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for your stuffing.
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Brown the sausage: Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage and vegetables with the gluten-free bread cubes, sage, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and parsley.
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Add broth: Gradually pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth, stirring until the bread is evenly moistened. Don't worry if it seems a little dry at first; the bread will absorb the liquid as it sits.
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Rest and bake: Cover the bowl and let the stuffing sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the liquid. This step is crucial for a moist and flavorful stuffing. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake: Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and golden brown on top. Check it halfway through and give it a good stir to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Gluten-Free Stuffing:
- Bread choice: Using day-old bread helps prevent the stuffing from becoming mushy. If you don't have day-old bread, you can lightly toast the cubes before adding them to the mixture.
- Broth adjustment: Depending on the type of bread you use, you may need to adjust the amount of broth. Start with less and add more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Herb variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices, such as marjoram, oregano, or even a pinch of nutmeg.
- Add-ins: Elevate your stuffing with additions like cranberries, pecans, apples, or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 10-12 grams
- Fat: Approximately 15-18 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams
This gluten-free sausage stuffing is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. It’s a fantastic side dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, but it’s also easy enough for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Enjoy!