Christmas Day Sausage Ring
A festive and savory sausage ring featuring crispy cornflakes, fresh herbs, and a tender meat center. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that appeal to both casual and formal occasions. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and optional scrambled eggs in the center.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Lightly grease a 7-inch ring mold.
- Sprinkle cornflakes in the bottom of the mold.
- Mix sausage, minced onion, bread crumbs, chopped parsley, and beaten egg.
- Pat the meat mixture into the prepared mold.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 15 minutes.
- Drain the sausage and bake for another 15 minutes or until done.
- Invert the mold onto a heated platter and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Fill the center with scrambled eggs if desired.
- The sausage ring can be refrigerated or frozen before baking.
- Thaw and heat as needed before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of sausage varieties, such as spicy Italian or smoked sausage. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the fine bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers. For a crunchier texture, try adding some finely chopped bell peppers or celery to the mixture. Always ensure the sausage is cooked to a safe internal temperature for optimal taste and safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sausage ring warm, garnished with fresh parsley and filled with scrambled eggs for a festive breakfast. It pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside some homemade bread or the delicious Strawberry Chiffon Pie (Low Fat) for a delightful holiday spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover sausage ring can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for a quick meal. If freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Day Sausage Ring contains roughly 369 calories, with 15g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (99% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and potassium (44% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 536mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?
Yes, you can definitely use turkey sausage as a lighter alternative. Just keep in mind that turkey sausage may have a different flavor and moisture content, so you may need to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the sausage mixture and press it into the mold a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked ring; just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I serve with the sausage ring?
This sausage ring is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with scrambled eggs, a fresh fruit salad, or roasted potatoes. It also complements dishes like the Steamed Cabbage And Smoked Sausage for a hearty meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).