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Barefoot Contessa Sausage Stuffing Recipe

Sharon Brown
Before we dive into the delicious world of Barefoot Contessa sausage stuffing, let’s chat about what you can serve with it. This stuffing is versatile and a fantastic addition to any meal.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 8 tablespoons 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 2 cups diced yellow onion about 2 medium onions
  • 1 cup diced celery about 2 stalks
  • ¾ pound sweet or spicy Italian sausage casings removed
  • 16 cups 1-inch bread cubes white or sourdough (from a 1 ½-pound loaf)
  • 2 Granny Smith apples unpeeled, cored, and cut into large dice
  • 1 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh sage chopped
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock

Instructions
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  • First, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and celery, and cook them until they soften. This should take about 10 minutes. You want them to turn translucent and fragrant. This step sets the flavor foundation for your stuffing.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

  • Next, add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon. Sauté until it’s nicely browned, about 7 to 8 minutes. Take a moment to enjoy the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen—it’s a good sign!

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, apples, cranberries, and the cooked onion, celery, and sausage mixture. It’s a delightful sight. Now, sprinkle in parsley, black pepper, salt, sage, and cinnamon. Stir it all together so that every piece of bread is coated in the flavorful mixture.

Step 4: Add the Stock

  • Pour the chicken stock over the mixture. You want everything to soak up that goodness, so stir gently. The bread should be slightly moist but not soggy. This is crucial as it allows the stuffing to bake to perfection.

Step 5: Bake

  • Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. You're aiming for a golden, crispy top layer.

Notes

  • Choose Your Bread Wisely: Opt for day-old bread for better absorption. Sourdough gives a tangy touch, while a simple white absorbs flavors beautifully.
  • Don’t Skip the Stock: Low-sodium chicken stock allows you to control the seasoning better. You can always add more salt if needed.
  • Vegetable Variations: Try adding mushrooms or carrots for an extra dose of flavor and nutrients.
  • Prep Ahead: Make the stuffing a day in advance. Just assemble and store it in the fridge, then pop it in the oven before serving.
  • Crispy Topping: For a crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before the final bake. A little melted butter over the top can also enhance crispiness.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gFiber: 3gSugar: 7g
Keyword Barefoot Contessa Sausage Stuffing
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