**Savory Italian Sausage Bread Pudding: A Delicious Take on Classic Stuffing**
Thanksgiving brings families together for moments of gratitude and, inevitably, a spread of mouthwatering dishes. Among the diverse tastes, stuffing (or dressing) frequently shines as a cherished part of the feast. This year, consider trying a unique twist on this traditional side with a Savory Italian Sausage Bread Pudding. This recipe merges the warm flavors of classic turkey dinner stuffing with the rich, custardy consistency of bread pudding, crafting a dish that’s bound to wow your guests.
**The Concept Behind the Creation**
Stuffing and bread pudding have a shared foundation: stale bread. However, bread pudding enhances this by adding a custard made from eggs and cream, giving it a firmer, cake-like quality. This recipe draws inspiration from the tastes of conventional stuffing and enhances them with the inclusion of Italian sausage and cheese, resulting in a savory bread pudding that is both filling and delightful.
**Ingredients and Steps**
To prepare this dish, gather:
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed (optional)
– 1 cup onion, chopped
– 1 cup celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons sage, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried)
– 1 tablespoon rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– 1 tablespoon thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 5 eggs
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1 1/2 cups cream
– 2 cups gruyere cheese, shredded (or swiss, gouda, cheddar, mozzarella, etc.)
– 1 pound Italian loaf (or French loaf), stale, cut into 1-inch cubes (gluten-free for gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan cheese), grated
**Instructions**
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the sausage, cooking and breaking it apart for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Introduce the onion and celery into the skillet and cook until soft, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, sage, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking until fragrant, about a minute. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
4. In a bowl, combine the eggs, milk, cream, and half of the cheese.
5. Mix in the bread, sausage, onion, and celery blend, along with the egg mixture until well combined. Transfer into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
6. Bake, covered, in a preheated 375F/190C oven until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, about 45-55 minutes.
**Optional Enhancements**
– Incorporate 8 ounces of chopped mushrooms for an earthy note.
– Add 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced, for a touch of sweetness.
– Serve with gravy for an added layer of richness.
**Nutritional Details**
Each portion of this savory bread pudding approximately provides 485 calories, 34g of fat, 19g of protein, and 24g of carbohydrates.
**Final Thoughts**
The Savory Italian Sausage Bread Pudding stands out as a tasty alternative to classic stuffing, combining a distinctive mixture of flavors and textures that complement any festive meal. Whether served next to roast turkey or enjoyed solo, this recipe will surely become a new staple at your Thanksgiving gathering. Delight in the warm aromas and rich flavor of this inventive dish, and cherish the moments spent sharing it with those you care about.