Sausage Stuffed Tomatoes
Sausage stuffed tomatoes offer a flavorful combination of seasoned sausage, fresh vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for a hearty appetizer or main course for casual family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut tops from tomatoes and scoop out pulp.
- Chop the pulp and combine it with bread crumbs, chopped celery, chopped green peppers, and cooked sausage.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Sprinkle the inside of each tomato shell with salt and pepper.
- Fill the tomato shells with the sausage mixture.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes at 375°F (optional step).
- Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs like oregano or basil into the sausage stuffing. If you're out of bread crumbs, crushed crackers or cooked rice can serve as a suitable substitute. To make this dish vegetarian, replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative or seasoned mushrooms. This recipe can be made ahead by preparing the stuffing and filling the tomatoes, then baking them just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These sausage stuffed tomatoes make a delightful main dish or an impressive appetizer. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the juices. Consider serving them alongside Jim Harty'S Lollipop Appetizer for a varied spread at your next gathering. Garnish with additional parsley for a fresh touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the tomatoes soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 340 calories, with 18g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1247mg per serving (54% 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 different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use spicy sausage for a kick, or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure it's cooked and crumbled before mixing it in. Adjust seasoning as needed since different sausages have varying salt levels.
Can I prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes a few hours ahead of time. Simply fill the tomato shells with the sausage mixture, cover, and refrigerate. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I do with leftover tomato pulp?
Leftover tomato pulp can be used in various ways! Consider adding it to pasta sauces, soups, or stews for extra flavor. You can also blend it into a salsa or incorporate it into a smoothie for added nutrients.
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).