The fragrant aroma of this Savory Broccoli Rabe Stuffing wafting through my kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. One Thanksgiving, after years of tired, traditional stuffing, I decided it was time for a delightful twist by incorporating vibrant broccoli rabe. The result? A beautiful medley of flavors that turns a staple side dish into the star of the dinner table.
Imagine the satisfying crunch of a perfectly toasted top layer giving way to moist, savory depths enriched with Italian sausage and fresh herbs. This isn’t just stuffing; it’s a celebration of flavors that will have your family and friends yearning for seconds. Plus, the nutritional bonus of broccoli rabe adds a guilt-free richness that makes every bite even more enjoyable. With only a handful of ingredients and just one pot, this recipe is not only easy but incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or simply craving a comforting dish, my Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing will shine brightly on your table. Let’s dive in!
Why is Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing irresistible?
Savory, Flavorful Experience: Combining broccoli rabe with Italian sausage elevates the typical stuffing to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Crispy Top, Moist Inside: The contrast of textures creates a delightful bite that pleases everyone at the table.
Nutrient-Rich Twist: Packed with vitamins, broccoli rabe adds health benefits without sacrificing flavor, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of accessible ingredients, you can whip up this impressive side dish with ease.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or a cozy family meal, this stuffing is sure to become a beloved staple.
Don’t forget to check out how to make traditional stuffing for more culinary inspiration!
Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing Ingredients
For the Stuffing
• Medium loaf of bread – Use day-old bread, chopped into 1-inch cubes for best texture.
• Broccoli rabe – Fresh is best; add a vibrant color and nutritional kick to your stuffing.
• Butter – Adds a rich flavor; can be replaced with olive oil for a healthier alternative.
• Sweet Italian sausage – Provides savory depth; opt for turkey sausage for a leaner version.
• Diced onion – Essential for aromatic flavor; shallots can be used for a sweeter profile.
• Celery – Adds crunch and freshness; leeks can be substituted for a milder taste.
• Mushrooms – Any variety works here, offering umami flavor that elevates the stuffing.
• Fresh sage – Imparts robust herbal notes; dried sage may be used in a pinch.
• Fresh thyme – Enhances the overall flavor; oregano can serve as an alternative.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all flavors; adjust to your personal preference.
• Broth – Moistens the stuffing and brings everything together; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
Expert Note: This Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing is sure to impress at your next gathering with its delightful medley of flavors!
How to Make Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing
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Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This step is essential to ensure that your stuffing bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown crust on top.
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Toast the chopped bread. Spread the 1-inch cubes of day-old bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 20 minutes, until crispy and lightly golden. This will help create a sturdy base for your stuffing.
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Blanch the broccoli rabe. In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the 10 stalks of broccoli rabe and cook for 3 minutes. Transfer it immediately to an ice water bath for 2 minutes to stop the cooking process. Once cooled, drain and chop.
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Sauté the vegetables. In a medium frying pan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the 1 pound of sweet Italian sausage (casings removed), followed by 1 ½ cups diced onions, 2 sliced stalks of celery, 1 cup sliced mushrooms, and the chopped fresh sage (10 leaves) and thyme (1 tablespoon). Cook until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes. Mix in the chopped broccoli rabe and season with 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
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Combine the stuffing mixture. In a 13 x 9 inch baking pan, mix the toasted bread with the sausage and vegetable blend. Pour in 1 ½ cups of broth and combine thoroughly, ensuring the bread absorbs all those delicious flavors.
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Bake the stuffing. Cover the pan with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, until the top is crunchy and the interior remains moist.
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Serve warm. This stuffing can be made ahead of time; simply reheat in the oven at 350ºF for 15 minutes before serving if prepared in advance.
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh herbs before serving for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing
Fridge: Store the stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat the stuffing in the oven at 350ºF for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This keeps it moist and delicious!
Make-Ahead Tip: This Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing can be prepared a day in advance, making it a convenient option for busy holiday planning.
Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these tasty twists and swaps!
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sweet Italian sausage with diced apples or walnuts for a lovely sweetness. This adds a delightful crunch and a hint of natural sugar.
- Different Bread: Experiment with cornbread or sourdough to introduce unique flavors and textures. Each type of bread will lend its personality to the dish.
- Add Heat: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The warmth mingles beautifully with the savory components, making each bite exciting.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh parsley and rosemary instead of sage and thyme for a fresh twist. This combo offers a wonderful aroma and a lighter flavor profile.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you need a nut-free option. They provide a satisfying crunch without the allergens.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in some cream cheese or ricotta before baking for extra creaminess. This twist will elevate the stuffing’s richness, making it even more indulgent.
- Cranberry Accents: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of sweetness and color. Their chewy texture pairs nicely with the savory elements.
- Garlic Infusion: Add minced garlic while sautéing the vegetables for an aromatic boost. Garlic introduces warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Expert Tips for Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing
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Toast the Bread Well: Ensure your bread is adequately toasted to create a sturdy structure for the stuffing. Under-toasting can lead to a soggy texture.
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Blanch Broccoli Rabe Correctly: Don’t skip the ice water bath after boiling; it locks in color and crunch. This step makes your Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing more visually appealing and fresh.
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Sauté Slowly: Cook your sausage and vegetables over medium heat, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. Rushing this step can result in unevenly cooked ingredients.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh sage and thyme provide vibrant flavors that elevate your dish. Dried herbs might not capture that fragrant essence, so opt for fresh whenever possible.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before baking. If you feel it needs more salt or pepper, now’s the time to adjust. A well-seasoned stuffing is key to a delicious Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing!
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Make Ahead: This dish is perfect for prepping in advance. Assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready.
What to Serve with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing?
Creating the perfect meal is about harmonizing flavors and textures, making every bite a celebration for your taste buds.
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Roast Turkey: A classic pairing, the juicy, savory turkey complements the rich stuffing beautifully, creating a comforting balance on your plate.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tart sweetness of cranberry sauce cuts through the richness of the stuffing, adding a vibrant pop of color and flavor that brightens every bite.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes provide a luscious contrast to the crunch of your stuffing, creating a delightful texture experience.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Their crispness and mild flavor enhance the dish without overpowering it, adding a fresh element to this hearty holiday meal.
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Gravy: Drizzling warm gravy over both the turkey and stuffing adds depth and moisture, pulling together all the savory flavors in an irresistible embrace.
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Pumpkin Pie: Finish with a slice of this classic dessert. Its hint of spice and creamy texture contrast perfectly with the savory stuffing, leaving a lasting impression on your palate.
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Red Wine: A robust red wine serves as a wonderful pairing, enhancing not just the stuffing but the entire flavor profile of your Thanksgiving feast.
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Stuffed Acorn Squash: For a vegetarian twist, serve roasted acorn squash filled with quinoa or rice, which beautifully complements the stuffing’s flavors while providing a seasonal touch.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the entire stuffing mix up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the baking step, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake the stuffing for 30 minutes covered and an additional 30 minutes uncovered to achieve that crunchy top layer. To maintain the quality, be sure to cool the stuffing completely before refrigerating to prevent sogginess. This makes your Thanksgiving prep so much easier, ensuring your stuffing is just as delicious with minimal last-minute effort!
Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select fresh broccoli rabe?
Look for vibrant green stalks with tightly packed florets and minimal yellowing. If you see dark spots all over or wilting, it’s best to choose another bundle. Fresh broccoli rabe should feel firm and crisp to the touch.
How should I store leftover Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing?
Store the stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it completely cools before sealing to help maintain freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To properly freeze, allow it to cool completely, then portion it out in airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I do if my stuffing is too dry?
If your stuffing turns out dry, you can remedy this during reheating. Add a bit more broth (1-2 tablespoons) to the stuffing and cover it with foil while reheating at 350ºF until warmed through. This will help bring moisture back into the dish.
Is this stuffing suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe contains wheat and pork from the bread and sausage. For those with gluten sensitivities, choose gluten-free bread, and substitute the sausage with a vegetarian or turkey option if you prefer a leaner dish. Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they’re safe for your dietary needs.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Very! Assemble the Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing the night before. Just cover it tightly and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it the next day. This makes holiday meal preparation a breeze!
Savory Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Stuffing Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
- Toast the chopped bread for about 20 minutes until crispy and lightly golden.
- Blanch the broccoli rabe in boiling salted water for 3 minutes, then transfer to ice water for 2 minutes.
- Sauté the vegetables: melt butter, add sausage and vegetables, cook until tender.
- Combine the stuffing mixture in a baking pan, adding broth.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 30 minutes.
- Serve warm, can be reheated in the oven before serving if made ahead.