Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying side dish that will elevate your next dinner? Look no further! This sausage and mushroom stuffing recipe is incredibly flavorful, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s a fantastic addition to your Thanksgiving feast or a comforting side for a weeknight dinner. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the onion, mushrooms, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic, sage, thyme, and black pepper and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and cubed bread. Pour the chicken broth over the mixture, stirring gently to combine. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
Step 3: Bake the Stuffing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the stuffing is golden brown and heated through. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sausage and Mushroom Stuffing:
- Bread Choice: Using day-old bread is ideal, as it absorbs the liquid better than fresh bread. If you only have fresh bread, let it sit out uncovered for a few hours to dry slightly.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the vegetables, don't overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Broth Adjustment: If your stuffing seems too dry after sitting, add a little more broth. If it's too wet, let it sit uncovered for a longer period before baking.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Apple and Cranberry Stuffing: Add 1/2 cup of chopped apples and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the stuffing mixture for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Vegetarian Stuffing: Replace the Italian sausage with 1 cup of cooked lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- Wild Rice Stuffing: Incorporate 1 cup of cooked wild rice for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size. A general estimate for a serving would be around 250-300 calories, with a varying amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fat depending on the type of bread and sausage used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients.
This sausage and mushroom stuffing recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough for a special occasion. Enjoy!