Shrooms and Sausage Dressing
Welcome to a cherished recipe that bridges the past with the present—a delightful holiday dressing that has become a staple at festive gatherings. Despite the changes in my brother’s life, this classic recipe, passed down from his former in-laws, remains a testament to the comfort of tradition and the joy of simplicity. With its savory blend of sausage, earthy mushrooms, and rich broths, this dressing is not only scrumptious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any family meal, it is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful dishes are those that bring people together.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bulk sausage: Choose your favorite type of sausage; spicy, mild, or even a blend for extra flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a delicious depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs: These will help bind the dressing together.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides a rich base for the dressing.
- 2 cups turkey broth: Complements the sausage and adds additional depth of flavor.
- Bread, torn into chunks: You’ll need enough bread to create a hearty dressing. The exact quantity isn’t specified, but typically, about 6-8 cups of bread chunks are ideal.
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread: Begin by tearing or cutting the bread into smaller chunks. For best results, tear each slice into quarters or fifths. As my grandmother, a true expert in making dressing, always said, the bread should be torn rather than cut. This technique ensures that the dressing will have the right texture and absorb the flavors beautifully.
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Cook the Sausage and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bulk sausage until browned and crumbled. Add the finely chopped onion and continue to cook until the onion is soft and translucent. This step infuses the dressing with a savory flavor and aromatic base.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the torn bread chunks with the cooked sausage and onion mixture. Add the eggs, chicken broth, and turkey broth to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring that the bread is well-coated and all ingredients are evenly distributed. The mixture should be moist but not overly wet; adjust the amount of broth as needed to achieve the right consistency.
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Bake the Dressing: Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 1 to 1 1/2 hours. The dressing should be golden brown on top and crisp around the edges. If you like a more crispy top, you can bake it a little longer, but be sure to check it periodically to avoid over-browning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Allow the dressing to cool slightly before serving. It’s perfect as a side dish for your holiday feast or as a comforting addition to any meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 382.1
- Fat Content: 18.6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4.8 grams
- Cholesterol: 94.3 milligrams
- Sodium: 1530.4 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 35.2 grams
- Fiber: 2.8 grams
- Sugar: 4.4 grams
- Protein: 18.5 grams
Tips for Success
- Bread Selection: Day-old bread works best as it holds up better when mixed with the broth. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
- Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to customize your dressing by adding herbs such as sage, thyme, or rosemary, or by incorporating sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables.
- Make-Ahead: This dressing can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Simply bake it right before serving for a delicious, hassle-free addition to your meal.
Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just looking for a hearty, comforting dish, this Shrooms and Sausage Dressing is sure to become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the simplicity and scrumptiousness of this timeless recipe! 🎄🦃🍞
