Introduction
A modern twist on a classic favorite, this Crockpot Herb and Sausage Stuffing is perfect for cozy gatherings or a delightful family dinner. Using the crockpot ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, making for a dish that’s both easy and delicious.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
500g bread cubes
200g ground sausage
100g chopped onion
100g chopped celery
50g unsalted butter, melted
500ml chicken broth
2 teaspoons dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
50g chopped fresh parsley
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
To prepare the stuffing, begin by cooking the ground sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned, breaking it into small pieces and draining excess fat. In a large mixing bowl, place the bread cubes and add the cooked sausage, chopped onion, chopped celery, and melted butter. Mix well to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, dried sage, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the bread and sausage mixture, stirring until the bread is evenly coated. Transfer the stuffing mixture to the crockpot and cover. Cook on low for 4-5 hours until heated through and the flavors are well combined.
Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
**Detailed Directions and Instructions**
1. Cook the Sausage
In a skillet, heat the ground sausage over medium heat, allowing it to brown while you break it into smaller pieces with a spatula. Once cooked through and browned, drain any excess fat to keep the stuffing mixture flavorful but not greasy.
2. Prepare the Bread Cubes
In a large mixing bowl, place the bread cubes, which should be a delightful combination of crusty and soft pieces. This variety will create a pleasing texture in the final dish.
3. Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked sausage, chopped onion, chopped celery, and melted unsalted butter to the bowl of bread cubes. Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly, ensuring that the bread cubes are well coated with the melted butter and sausage.
4. Prepare the Broth Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, dried sage, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic mixture will infuse the stuffing with a fragrant herbal essence that complements the savory sausage.
5. Combine and Coat
Pour the broth mixture generously over the bread and sausage mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring that every piece of bread is soaked in the flavorful broth, creating a moist and savory stuffing.
6. Cook in the Crockpot
Transfer the stuffing mixture to the crockpot. Spread it evenly across the bottom and cover with the lid. Set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and comforting dish.
7. Add Fresh Parsley
Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note, enhancing both the visual appeal and the flavor of the stuffing.
**Notes**
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Customization
Feel free to customize this recipe with additional ingredients such as diced apples for sweetness, nuts for crunch, or other herbs like marjoram or oregano for added flavor complexity.
Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique where you cook food quickly in a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, you sauté the ground sausage until browned, which enhances the flavor and texture before adding it to the stuffing mixture.
Mixing
Mixing is essential to ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed. After adding the sausage, onion, celery, and butter to the bread cubes, mix well to ensure every piece of bread is coated and absorbs the flavors.
Whisking
Whisking is used to combine the broth and dry herbs smoothly. This technique eliminates clumps and ensures that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the stuffing.
Layering in the Crockpot
When transferring the stuffing mixture to the crockpot, layer it evenly. This ensures that the heat circulates properly and cooks the stuffing thoroughly.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully over an extended period. Cooking on low for 4-5 hours ensures the stuffing retains moisture while the herbs release their aromatic qualities.
Finishing with Fresh Herbs
Adding fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish, providing a pop of color and a fresh flavor that balances the savory sausage and aromatic herbs.
FAQ
Can I use any type of bread for stuffing?
Yes, you can use various types of bread like sourdough, whole wheat, or gluten-free bread. Just ensure it is day-old or toasted for the best texture.
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add it to the crockpot when you’re ready to cook.
Is this stuffing suitable for a vegetarian option?
Yes, you can replace the sausage with mushrooms or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian stuffing.
How can I make it spicier?
To add some heat, you can include crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage instead of mild ground sausage.
Can this stuffing be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked stuffing. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
The Crockpot Herb and Sausage Stuffing is a delightful and hassle-free dish that elevates any meal. Its rich combination of herbs and savory sausage creates a comforting flavor profile that is sure to please family and friends. With its ease of preparation and the ability to develop deep flavors in the slow cooker, this stuffing proves to be a modern take on a beloved classic, making it an ideal choice for both holidays and everyday dining.
Herb and Mushroom Stuffing
Add sautéed mushrooms to the mixture for an earthy flavor that complements the herbs beautifully.
Dried Fruit and Nut Stuffing
Incorporate dried cranberries or apricots along with chopped nuts for a sweet and crunchy twist.
Vegetarian Stuffing
Substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or extra vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian version.
Apple and Sage Stuffing
Mix in diced apples to introduce a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the sage.
Cheesy Stuffing
Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Gruyère, into the stuffing mixture for an extra creamy texture.
Cranberry and Orange Zest Stuffing
Combine fresh cranberries and a touch of orange zest for a festive and refreshing flavor profile ideal for special occasions.
Spicy Chorizo Stuffing
Swap out the sausage for spicy chorizo to give the dish a kick, adding a new level of flavor and heat.
