Are you ready to elevate your holiday feast with a mouthwatering twist on a classic dish? This Challah Stuffing with Turkey Sausage, Leeks, and Cherries is not just a side—it's the star of the show! Imagine the rich, savory flavors of crumbled turkey sausage mingling with the sweet pop of dried cherries, all nestled in buttery, toasted challah bread. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, this stuffing will have your guests begging for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a warm, comforting dish that will leave everyone raving!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf challah, cubed
- 1 pound turkey sausage, crumbled
- 2 leeks, sliced
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the challah bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them on a large baking sheet. Toast the bread cubes in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until they are lightly golden and crisp. Remove and set aside to cool.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the crumbled turkey sausage until it is fully browned and no pink remains, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Clean and thinly slice the leeks, using only the white and light green parts. Add the sliced leeks to the skillet with the sausage and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted challah cubes, browned turkey sausage, sautéed leeks, and dried cherries. Sprinkle with fresh thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually pour the chicken broth over the mixture, stirring gently to ensure the bread cubes are evenly moistened but not soggy. The bread should absorb the liquid without becoming mushy.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the stuffing is heated through.
- Let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
Tips
- Toast the Challah: Make sure to toast the challah cubes until they're golden and crisp. This helps them absorb the broth without becoming soggy, ensuring a delightful texture in every bite.
- Sauté the Sausage Well: Browning the turkey sausage thoroughly not only enhances its flavor but also adds a nice depth to the stuffing. Don’t rush this step!
- Leeks Preparation: When cleaning leeks, slice them lengthwise and rinse under cold water to remove any grit. Only use the white and light green parts for a sweeter, milder flavor.
- Broth Addition: Pour the chicken broth gradually and mix gently. You want the bread to absorb the liquid but remain intact; avoid overmixing to keep the texture just right.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the stuffing to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This will help the flavors meld beautifully and make it easier to serve.
- Customize It: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or other ingredients like nuts or seasonal vegetables for a personal touch that reflects your taste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 65mg
