– **Title**: Cheesy Stuffed Italian Sausage
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 large Italian sausages (mild or spicy, as per preference)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil (for brushing)
– Optional: Marinara sauce for dipping
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Carefully make a slit along the length of each sausage without cutting all the way through. This will create a pocket for the stuffing.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
4. Stuff each sausage with the cheese mixture, using a spoon or your fingers to ensure a good amount of filling is inside. Don’t overstuff as the cheese will expand while cooking.
5. Place the stuffed sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little olive oil for extra crispiness.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
8. Serve warm, optionally with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy your cheesy stuffed Italian sausages!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausages: Choose mild or spicy Italian sausages depending on how much heat you want. You can also try turkey or chicken sausages for a lighter version. If you’re vegetarian, look for meat alternatives such as plant-based sausages.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella brings a creamy texture and gooey melt. If you want a different flavor, try provolone or a blend of cheeses. Low-fat mozzarella works too but may melt differently.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess to the stuffing. For a healthier option, cottage cheese can be a good substitute, though the texture will be different. You could even use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade marinara can elevate the dish. If you want a bit of spice, use arrabbiata sauce instead, or blend in some crushed red pepper for that kick.
How Do I Stuff the Sausages Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing sausages can be tricky, but with care, it’s easy! Start by preparing your cheese mixture first. Then, when cutting the sausage, a small, steady hand is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sharp knife to make a careful slit along the length of each sausage. Avoid cutting through; you want to create a pocket.
- Use a spoon or a small spatula to fill the sausage pocket with the cheese mixture. Press gently but firmly to pack it in.
- Don’t overstuff, as the cheese will expand during cooking. A little space is fine!
With these tips, your sausages will be stuffed beautifully and ready for delicious baking!
Cheesy Stuffed Italian Sausage Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sausages:
- 6 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, as per preference)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to bake, for a total of about 50 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delightful dish that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s nice and hot when your stuffed sausages go in, making them cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This cheesy filling is going to make your sausages extra delicious!
3. Make Slits in the Sausages:
Carefully take each Italian sausage and make a slit along its length. Be sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a pocket for the cheese mixture. This step just adds to the fun of filling them up!
4. Stuff the Sausages:
Now it’s time to stuff! Gently fill each sausage with your cheese mixture, pressing gently to ensure they are filled well but not bursting. You’ll love the gooey cheese inside each bite!
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
In a baking dish, spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom. This sauce will add flavor and moisture as the sausages cook.
6. Arrange the Stuffed Sausages:
Place the stuffed sausages in the baking dish on top of the marinara sauce. Then, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the sausages to keep them nice and saucy while they bake.
7. Add Extra Cheese:
For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle some additional mozzarella cheese on top of the sausages. Because more cheese is always a good idea!
8. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This helps to steam the sausages while keeping them juicy.
9. Uncover and Finish Baking:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and let the sausages bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt and turn bubbly and golden. Trust us, your kitchen will smell amazing!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your cheesy, flavorful stuffed sausages with some crusty bread or over a bed of pasta for a complete meal!
Can I Use Chicken or Turkey Sausages Instead?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Italian chicken or turkey sausages for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as leaner meats might cook faster than pork or beef sausages. Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of marinara sauce if needed to keep them moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the stuffed sausages and assemble the dish in advance, then cover and refrigerate. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight out of the fridge, to ensure they heat through properly.
What Can I Serve With Cheesy Stuffed Italian Sausages?
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or over a bed of pasta for a heartier meal. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced plate!
