Chorizo cornbread stuffing is a flavorful twist on the classic Thanksgiving side dish, combining the rich and spicy flavors of chorizo sausage with the sweetness of cornbread.
This delicious stuffing is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want to add a little extra flair to your meal.
With a perfect balance of savory and sweet, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Follow along for a simple and delicious recipe that will elevate your Thanksgiving feast.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chorizo sausage, casing removed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 cups cornbread, cubed and dried
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Cook the Chorizo and Vegetables
In a large skillet, cook the chorizo sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Remove the cooked chorizo from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until fragrant.
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chorizo, sautéed vegetables, and cubed cornbread.
Mix well to combine.
Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the mixture and stir until evenly moistened.
If desired, stir in the chopped fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Bake the Stuffing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the stuffing.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chorizo cornbread stuffing from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with additional chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serve warm as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite holiday meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Servings: Approximately 8 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 400 kcal
- Total Fat: Approximately 20g
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 50mg
- Sodium: Approximately 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 40g
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2g
- Sugars: Approximately 8g
- Protein: Approximately 15g
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought cornbread for convenience.
Simply cube the cornbread and allow it to dry out slightly before using it in the stuffing.
2. Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chorizo cornbread stuffing up to one day in advance.
After assembling the stuffing, cover it tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate.
When ready to bake, remove the stuffing from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature while the oven preheats. Bake as directed.
3. Can I use a different type of sausage?
If you prefer, you can substitute other types of sausage for the chorizo, such as Italian sausage or breakfast sausage.
Adjust the seasonings accordingly to complement the flavors of the sausage you choose.
4. Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this stuffing by omitting the chorizo sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
You can also add additional vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, for extra flavor and texture.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover chorizo cornbread stuffing for up to three months.
Allow the stuffing to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the stuffing in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.