Lunch / Dinner
Chicken-Apple Sausage, Broccolini, and Barley Bake
Chilly winter days call for a bowl of this cozy Chicken-Apple Sausage, Broccolini, and Barley Bake because we think comforting casseroles should be wholesome, too!
Ingredients
Make Ahead & Freeze
Complete through step 3. Let unbaked casserole cool completely. Cover with a layer of parchment paper, plastic wrap, and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator; uncover. Defrost in microwave covered with a damp paper towel until thawed, 15 to 20 minutes. Bake, covered with foil, at 375° until hot and bubbly, 45 to 60 minutes.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°. Brush 2 (1½-quart) round baking dishes with 1 tablespoon oil.
Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage and onion, and cook, stirring frequently, until sausage is browned and onion is tender, 5 to 7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer sausage mixture to a medium bowl; set aside.
Add remaining 2 tablespoons oil to Dutch oven. Whisk in flour, and cook, stirring constantly, until a thick paste forms, about 1 minute. Whisk in broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and cook, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened, 5 to 9 minutes. Add Broccolini, Italian seasoning, and salt; cover and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in sausage mixture, cooked barley, and 1 cup fontina. Divide mixture evenly between prepared dishes. Top with remaining 1 cup fontina.
Bake until cheese is melted and barley mixture is bubbly, 18 to 20 minutes. Top with black pepper and red pepper, if desired. Serve immediately.