Indulge in the ultimate comfort food: sausage bread recipe that will warm your soul!

Indulge in the tantalizing aroma and irresistible taste of our exquisite sausage bread recipe. This culinary masterpiece combines the savory flavors of juicy sausage with the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread, creating a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through every step to create a delectable treat that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (105-115°F)
• 1 pound (450g) bulk Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Proof the Yeast: In a large bowl, whisk together the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy.
2. Make the Dough: Add the flour and salt to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Brown the Sausage: While the dough is rising, brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up the sausage into small pieces as it cooks.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a 12×6-inch (30x15cm) rectangle.
6. Spread the Sausage and Cheese: Spread the browned sausage evenly over one rectangle of dough. Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover with the Second Dough: Place the second rectangle of dough over the sausage and cheese. Pinch the edges together to seal.
8. Second Rise: Place the bread on a greased baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.
9. Brush with Egg: Brush the top of the bread with the beaten egg.
10. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Let Cool: Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Perfect Sausage Bread

• Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have active dry yeast, you can use instant yeast instead. Just follow the instructions on the package.
• To make sure the bread is cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the bread is done.
• Let the bread cool slightly before slicing to prevent it from crumbling.

Variations

• Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sausage mixture for extra flavor.
• Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to suit your taste.
• Sprinkle the bread with herbs, such as oregano or basil, before baking for a savory twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the sausage bread warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• Use it as a sandwich bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Cut it into cubes and serve it as an appetizer or snack.

Preserving the Sausage Bread

• The sausage bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To reheat the bread, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQ

Q: Can I use ground sausage instead of bulk sausage?
A: Yes, you can use ground sausage. Just make sure to cook it through before adding it to the dough.
Q: How can I make the bread ahead of time?
A: You can make the bread up to the second rise. Then, cover it tightly and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature for 1 hour before baking.
Q: Can I substitute another type of flour?
A: You can use bread flour or whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. However, the bread may have a slightly different texture.

Final Thoughts

Treat yourself and your loved ones to the irresistible delight of our sausage bread recipe. With its perfect balance of savory and comforting flavors, this culinary masterpiece will become a staple in your baking repertoire. Experiment with different variations to suit your taste preferences, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade bread that is both delicious and impressive.