Are you looking for a delicious and comforting side dish to elevate your holiday meals or weeknight dinners? Look no further! This recipe for savory pork dressing is incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavor, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Forget those dry, bland bread-based stuffings; this recipe uses hearty pork sausage, aromatic vegetables, and herbs to create a moist and flavorful dressing that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, this homemade cooking gem is a true winner. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork sausage (mild or spicy, your choice!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups cubed stale bread (day-old bread works best)
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the pork sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked through, drain off any excess grease. Set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onion, celery, and mushrooms (if using) until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Add the cubed bread, gently tossing to coat everything evenly.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the beaten eggs and chicken broth, stirring until the bread is evenly moistened. Don't overmix; some slightly dry areas are okay.
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Bake the Dressing: Pour the dressing mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
Tips and Variations:
- Bread Choice: Experiment with different types of bread! A crusty sourdough or a hearty Italian loaf will add a unique texture and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Add Cranberries: Incorporate 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and tartness.
- Apple Enhancement: Diced apples add a delicious sweetness and complement the pork beautifully.
- Nutty Delight: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a wonderful crunch and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For the most accurate information, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a hearty and delicious pork dressing that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master. Enjoy this flavorful addition to your next meal! This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes created with simple, homemade cooking methods. It offers healthy meals without sacrificing taste, making it a winner for busy weeknights or special occasions.