Nana’s Sausage Bread Recipe
Overview:
Nana’s Sausage Bread is a cherished family recipe passed down through generations, originating from my grandmother’s kitchen. This delectable treat serves as a delightful appetizer for holiday feasts or a satisfying addition to any casual gathering, be it a light supper or a lively Super Bowl party. Despite its gourmet appeal, crafting this savory bread is surprisingly straightforward, promising a culinary adventure that’s as rewarding as it is delicious. Each loaf generously yields 6-10 servings, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 653 per serving
- Fat Content: 33.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 14.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 132.4mg
- Sodium Content: 1576.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 54.7g
- Fiber Content: 1.9g
- Sugar Content: 3.4g
- Protein Content: 31.5g
Ingredients:
- 2 sweet Italian sausage links
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1/2 tablespoon fennel seed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 packet dry yeast
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons margarine
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sausage Filling:
- In a frying pan, brown the sweet Italian sausage links over medium-high heat.
- Once browned, drain the excess drippings and allow the sausage to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled sausage with 2 beaten eggs, dried basil, fennel seeds, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Set aside.
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix together 5 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and dry yeast.
- In a small saucepan, heat water, milk, and butter until the mixture is hot to the touch (approximately 125°F).
- Stir the hot liquid mixture into the dry ingredients until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate enough of the remaining 1 cup of flour to form a soft dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
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Assemble and Bake:
- Divide the dough in half, setting one portion aside.
- Roll out one half of the dough into a 6″ x 18″ rectangle.
- Spoon half of the prepared sausage mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the dough over the sausage filling, overlapping it by about 1 1/2 inches, and seal the seams and ends by pinching the dough together.
- Carefully transfer the filled dough to a greased baking sheet, shaping it into a horseshoe.
- Using a sharp knife or razor, make shallow slashes in the top of the dough, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Repeat the rolling and filling process with the remaining portion of dough.
- Beat the remaining egg and brush it over both loaves of bread.
- Optionally, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese over each loaf.
- Cover the loaves and let them rise until doubled in size, approximately 40-50 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once baked, remove the loaves from the baking sheets and allow them to cool slightly.
- Serve the sausage bread warm, and refrigerate any leftovers.
- For added convenience, the bread can be made a day in advance and reheated in the oven before serving.
Enjoy!
Nana’s Sausage Bread is a delightful fusion of savory flavors and comforting aromas, perfect for any occasion where good food and cherished memories are shared. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, each slice is a testament to the love and tradition that goes into every batch. So gather your loved ones, savor the moments, and indulge in the irresistible goodness of Nana’s Sausage Bread! 🍞✨
