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* **1 loaf of day-old bread** (about 10-12 cups, cubed) – Use a hearty bread like sourdough, French bread, or whole-grain for the best texture.
* **1 lb Italian sausage** (you can use mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
* **1 medium onion**, finely chopped
* **2 celery stalks**, finely chopped
* **2 cloves garlic**, minced
* **1 cup chestnuts**, peeled and chopped (or substitute with walnuts or pecans)
* **1/2 cup dried cranberries** (or raisins for a different twist)
* **1/4 cup fresh parsley**, chopped
* **1 tablespoon fresh sage**, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
* **1 tablespoon fresh thyme**, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
* **1/4 cup unsalted butter**
* **2 cups chicken broth** (vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version)
* **1/2 cup heavy cream** (for a rich, creamy stuffing)
* **Salt and pepper**, to taste
Optional:
* **1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese** (for a savory finishing touch)
* **1/2 teaspoon nutmeg** (for a warm, aromatic flavor)
## Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by cutting your loaf of day-old bread into cubes (about 1-inch). If your bread is fresh, toast the cubes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until they are golden and crisp. This will help ensure the stuffing has the perfect texture and doesn’t turn soggy. Once toasted, set the bread cubes aside.
### Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, transfer it to a bowl and set aside. Leave some of the rendered fat in the pan to cook the vegetables for added flavor.
### Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté the **onion**, **celery**, and **garlic** over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. You want them tender but not browned. Stir in the **fresh sage**, **thyme**, and a pinch of **salt and pepper**, allowing the herbs to release their fragrance.
### Step 4: Assemble the Stuffing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, **chopped chestnuts**, **dried cranberries**, and **fresh parsley**. Stir gently to incorporate all the ingredients.
### Step 5: Add the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **chicken broth**, **heavy cream**, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the liquid over the bread mixture, stirring until the bread is well moistened but not soggy. If the mixture seems dry, you can add more broth, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
### Step 6: Bake the Stuffing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish (9×13-inch works well). Use a spoon to press down gently, ensuring the stuffing is evenly spread. If you like your stuffing with a crispy top, bake it uncovered. For a softer stuffing, cover with aluminum foil.
Bake for 25-30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil (if used) and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the stuffing from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. If desired, sprinkle the top with **shredded parmesan cheese** for an extra layer of flavor. Serve alongside your favorite holiday mains, such as roasted turkey or glazed ham, and enjoy the delicious flavors of **Christmas Stuffing Supreme**!
## Tips for Making the Perfect Stuffing
* **Use Stale Bread:** Stale bread works best for stuffing because it soaks up the liquid without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, simply toast it in the oven before using.
* **Customize Your Filling:** You can add or remove ingredients based on your preferences. For instance, you could add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor or swap out the sausage for bacon for a smokier taste.
* **Make It Ahead of Time:** If you’re preparing for a busy holiday dinner, you can assemble the stuffing a day ahead, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. On the day of, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
* **Crispy vs. Soft:** For a crispy top, bake the stuffing uncovered. If you prefer a softer stuffing, cover it with foil for the first 25 minutes of baking.
## Conclusion
**Christmas Stuffing Supreme** is the ultimate holiday side dish that combines savory, rich flavors with a perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just looking to elevate your holiday meal, this stuffing will become a crowd favorite.
With ingredients like **Italian sausage**, **chestnuts**, and **dried cranberries**, this stuffing brings a festive flair to the traditional recipe. Serve it alongside your holiday roast, and you’ll have a dish that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
So, next time you’re planning your holiday menu, make sure to add this **irresistible stuffing** to the table. It’s **flavor-packed**, **easy to make**, and guaranteed to become a holiday tradition in your home. Enjoy!
