The holiday season is all about family, friends, and of course, food! But juggling multiple dishes with different cooking requirements can be a challenge. Enter the Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing. This dish not only saves you precious oven space but also delivers a mouthwatering blend of flavors. With savory Italian sausage, crisp celery, aromatic herbs, and tender bread cubes, this sausage dressing is sure to become a family favorite.
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The Best Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing
There’s something magical about a well-made dressing during the holidays. The combination of textures and flavors creates a dish that complements any main course perfectly. Our Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing stands out with its delightful mix of sweet Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and herbs, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot®. It’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious.
Notes on Ingredients
- Chicken Broth: This recipe calls for 1 cup of chicken broth, which is divided and used in two stages to ensure the bread cubes are evenly moistened and flavorful.
- Sweet Italian Sausage: Opt for high-quality sausage to get that rich, savory flavor. If you prefer a bit of heat, you can substitute it with spicy Italian sausage.
- Stuffing Bread Cubes: You can use store-bought or homemade bread cubes. For homemade, simply cube eight slices of bread and bake them until crisp. This adds a personal touch and enhances the dish’s texture.
- Water Chestnuts: These add a delightful crunch, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to omit or replace them with nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different texture.
- Herbs and Seasoning: Fresh parsley, thyme, and sage bring the earthy, aromatic qualities that make this dressing a standout. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
How to Make Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of chicken broth and one large egg. Set this aside for later.
- Cook the Sausage: Set your Instant Pot® to the Sauté function. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks for about 3 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the unsalted butter, chopped onion, celery, and water chestnuts. Cook for an additional 4 minutes, letting the vegetables soften and absorb the flavors. Turn off the pot.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix in the parsley, salt, thyme, sage, and black pepper. Add the stuffing bread cubes to the pot, pouring the egg mixture over everything. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
- Cook the Dressing: Lock the Instant Pot® lid, select manual, and set the timer for 6 minutes. Allow 2 minutes for pressure to build. Once done, carefully open the lid and stir in the remaining chicken broth.
- Finish Cooking: Close the lid again, select manual, and set for another 5 minutes. Allow the pressure to build for 2 minutes. Use the quick-release method to release the pressure, then unlock and remove the lid.
- Serve: Transfer the dressing to a serving dish, ready to impress your guests with its rich flavors and perfect texture.
How to Serve Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing
Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing is a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, pork, or beef. Serve it warm, garnished with additional parsley for a pop of color. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
How to Store Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing
- Refrigerate: Allow the dressing to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freeze: If you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, freeze the dressing in a sealed container for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs About Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot®?
Yes, you can prepare this dish on the stovetop and bake it in the oven. Cook the sausage and vegetables in a large skillet, then combine everything in a baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes.
What can I substitute for water chestnuts?
If you don’t have water chestnuts or prefer something else, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even diced apples for a touch of sweetness.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spicy Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.
How do I make my bread cubes?
To make homemade bread cubes, cut slices of bread into cubes and bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown.
The Best Instant Pot® Sausage Dressing
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth divided
- 1 large egg
- ½ pound sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 ribs celery chopped
- 1 8 ounce can diced water chestnuts, drained
- ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 5 cups plain stuffing bread cubes
Instructions
- Whisk 1/2 cup broth and egg together in a mixing bowl. Set aside.
- Turn on a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®) and select Saute function. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, for 3 minutes. Add butter, onion, celery, and water chestnuts. Cook 4 minutes more and turn pot off. Add parsley, salt, thyme, sage, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Add bread cubes to pot and pour egg mixture on top. Toss to combine.
- Close and lock the lid. Select manual and set the timer for 6 minutes; allow 2 minutes for pressure to build. There will be no pressure to release in this step; when timer is up, carefully remove the lid and add remaining broth.
- Close and lock the lid again. Select manual and set the timer for 5 minutes; allow 2 minutes for pressure to build. Release pressure carefully using the quick-release method according to manufacturer’s instructions, about 5 minutes. Unlock and remove the lid.
- Remove the lid and transfer dressing to a serving dish.
