Savory Stuffing Roll Ups with Creamy Gravy for Cozy Nights

Introduction

As the nights grow colder, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to bring comfort and cheer into your home. One such dish that encapsulates the essence of cozy dining is Savory Stuffing Roll Ups paired with a rich, creamy gravy. This recipe marries the delightful flavors of stuffed bread rolls with a luscious sauce, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home.

These roll ups are not only visually appealing but also customizable, allowing you to incorporate your favorite stuffing flavors. The creamy gravy complements the savory filling perfectly, enhancing the overall taste experience. Gather your loved ones or enjoy it solo; either way, this dish is sure to warm both your body and spirit.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of French bread
    The bread provides the base structure for the roll ups, offering a sturdy yet soft canvas to hold the savory stuffing. Its crusty exterior turns golden during baking, adding textural contrast.
  • 2 cups cooked turkey or chicken, shredded
    This ingredient adds heartiness and protein to the dish, making it filling and nutritious. The meat absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste.
  • 1 cup chopped celery
    Celery brings a refreshing crunch and slight sweetness, balancing the rich flavors. Its water content helps prevent the stuffing from being too dry.
  • 1 cup diced onions
    Onions add depth and aromatic flavor to the stuffing. Their sweetness develops through cooking, complementing the savory elements beautifully.
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
    Broth provides moisture and richness to the stuffing. It infuses the entire dish with flavor, ensuring each component works harmoniously.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
    Thyme imparts a warm, earthy flavor that is classic in stuffing recipes. It pairs well with poultry and adds a fragrant herbal note.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    Garlic powder enhances the dish’s savory profile, contributing depth without overpowering other flavors. It’s an easy addition that packs a punch.
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar)
    Cheese adds a creamy, indulgent quality that binds the stuffing together and melts beautifully in the oven. It’s crucial for enriching the overall flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    Seasoning is essential for elevating all the flavors in the dish. Adjusting to your taste ensures the final product is perfectly balanced and satisfying.
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    This creates the luxurious creamy texture of the gravy, providing richness and that comforting element that pairs beautifully with the rolls.
  • 2 tablespoons butter
    Butter enhances the flavor of the gravy, adding depth and a beautiful gloss. It also contributes to a velvety mouthfeel that enriches every bite.
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
    Used for thickening the gravy, flour helps create a luxurious consistency. It binds the liquid together, preventing the sauce from being too runny.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven is essential for achieving a perfectly baked dish. Setting the right temperature ensures even cooking, allowing the bread to become crusty while the filling heats through.

Step 2: Prepare the filling by sautéing celery and onions in a skillet over medium heat until softened.

Sautéing the vegetables first enhances their flavors, releasing their natural sweetness and aroma. This step makes the stuffing filling more flavorful and prevents raw onion taste.

Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, shredded turkey or chicken, thyme, garlic powder, and cheese.

Mixing the filling ingredients while they are warm allows for better melding of flavors. This step ensures that the cheese slightly melts, integrating it evenly into the mixture.

Step 4: Trim the crust off the loaf of French bread and cut it into slices that are roughly 1 inch thick.

Removing the crust helps the bread roll more easily and gives the filling a better chance to adhere to the soft inner bread. Cutting it 1 inch thick provides a good size for filling.

Step 5: Layer some of the filling onto each slice of bread and roll them up tightly.

Rolling tightly helps contain the filling within the bread, preventing it from spilling out during cooking. Aim for uniform rolls to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Arrange the roll ups seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Positioning the roll ups seam-side down prevents them from unrolling while baking. A greased dish ensures the bottoms brown nicely and won’t stick.

Step 7: Pour the broth over the roll ups, making sure they are well-saturated but not soggy.

Adding broth provides moisture to the bread and helps the flavors deepen as it bakes. Careful saturation ensures the dish remains flavorful without becoming mushy.

Step 8: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Covering the baking dish creates steam, which helps soften the bread and warm the filling thoroughly. This prevents the outer layer from overcooking too quickly.

Step 9: Meanwhile, make the creamy gravy by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

Melting the butter first is essential for creating the base of your gravy. This process releases its flavor and prepares it for the addition of flour.

Step 10: Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden brown.

Cooking the flour creates a roux, which thickens the gravy. This step is crucial, as it ensures a smooth texture while developing a rich flavor.

Step 11: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and broth, whisking continuously until thickened.

Adding the liquid gradually helps to prevent lumps from forming. Continuous whisking ensures a smooth consistency, allowing the sauce to thicken beautifully.

Step 12: Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.

Tasting and adjusting the seasoning at this stage is vital. Flavors can change as they meld, and you want to ensure the gravy complements the rolls perfectly.

Step 13: Remove the foil from the roll ups and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Baking uncovered allows the tops to crisp up and develop a beautiful golden crust. This step enhances visual appeal and adds textural contrast to the dish.

Step 14: Serve hot with a generous drizzle of creamy gravy over the roll ups.

Serving the dish hot ensures the maximum comfort factor. The creamy gravy not only adds flavor but also visually enhances the presentation, making it more appetizing.

Savory Stuffing Roll Ups with Creamy Gravy for Cozy Nights step photo

Comfort Food Reinvented

Savory Stuffing Roll Ups present a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. By rolling stuffing into bread, this recipe transforms standard stuffing into a handheld treat, perfect for cozy evenings. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor that evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These roll ups are incredibly versatile, suitable for weeknight dinners, celebrations, or even potlucks. You can customize the filling based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences, ensuring that it fits any occasion. The creamy gravy offers an additional layer of comfort, making this dish always a crowd-pleaser.

A Fun, Interactive Meal

Preparing Savory Stuffing Roll Ups can be a fun activity for families or friends. The rolling process allows for creativity, as everyone can personalize their roll with desired fillings. This interactive element not only makes cooking enjoyable but also fosters a sense of togetherness in the kitchen.

FAQs

What can I do if my gravy turns out too thin?

If your gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by creating a slurry with equal parts cornstarch and cold water, then whisking it into the gravy while simmering.

How can I adjust the flavors if the roll ups are too bland?

If the roll ups taste bland, consider adding more herbs or spices to the filling, or increase the seasoning in the gravy. Taste regularly while cooking for the best results.

Can I use leftover stuffing instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely! Leftover stuffing works wonderfully in this recipe, saving you time while still providing great flavor.

What if I want a spicier version of these roll ups?

To increase the spice level, you can add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. Alternatively, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes into the gravy.

How do I make these roll ups more cheesy?

For extra cheese, add more shredded cheese to the filling or sprinkle additional cheese on top of the roll ups before baking for a gooey, melted topping.

Can I use a different type of meat in the filling?

Yes, you can substitute the turkey or chicken with cooked sausage or even a meat alternative to tailor the dish to your preferences.

Conclusion

Savory Stuffing Roll Ups with Creamy Gravy combine comfort and creativity, making them a standout dish for any home cook looking to embrace cozy nights. Each element of this recipe plays an essential role in creating a satisfying meal that delights the senses.

Whether you’re enjoying these roll ups around the table with family or savoring them solo, they promise warmth and flavor with every bite. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience that encourages togetherness and joy during those chilly evenings.

Recipe Card

Savory Stuffing Roll Ups with Creamy Gravy for Cozy Nights

Savory Stuffing Roll Ups with Creamy Gravy for Cozy Nights made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of French bread
  • 2 cups cooked turkey or chicken shredded
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 cups shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare the filling by sautéing celery and onions in a skillet over medium heat until softened.
  • In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, shredded turkey or chicken, thyme, garlic powder, and cheese.
  • Trim the crust off the loaf of French bread and cut it into slices that are roughly 1 inch thick.
  • Layer some of the filling onto each slice of bread and roll them up tightly.
  • Arrange the roll ups seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
  • Pour the broth over the roll ups, making sure they are well-saturated but not soggy.
  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, make the creamy gravy by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
  • Slowly pour in the heavy cream and broth, whisking continuously until thickened.
  • Season the gravy with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Remove the foil from the roll ups and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
  • Serve hot with a generous drizzle of creamy gravy over the roll ups.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.

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