Cudighi Recipe: How to Cook This Michigan Favorite

Table of Contents

Introduction

If you love bold flavors, juicy sausage, and a sandwich that packs a punch, you’re in for a treat! The Cudighi Recipe is a hidden gem from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, offering a spicy and flavorful twist on the traditional Italian sausage sandwich. Imagine biting into a perfectly seasoned sausage patty, nestled in a fresh bun, topped with melty cheese and your favorite condiments pure comfort food bliss!

Cudighi has a fascinating history, brought to Michigan by Italian immigrants who adapted their traditional sausage recipes into something uniquely American. While it’s not as well-known as a Philly cheesesteak or a Chicago hot dog, those who try Cudighi quickly fall in love with its rich, slightly spicy taste and satisfying texture.

Compared to other classic sandwich recipes like the Meatball Sub or Italian Beef Sandwich, Cudighi stands out for its bold seasoning and versatility. Whether served in a bun with mustard and onions or smothered in marinara and mozzarella, this dish is a must-try for sandwich lovers everywhere. So, let’s dive into this easy-to-make, flavorful recipe and bring a taste of Michigan into your kitchen!

What is Cudighi?

The name Cudighi (pronounced koo-duh-gee) might sound funny at first, but trust me, this sandwich is no joke! Originating from the Italian word Cotechino, a type of spiced pork sausage, Cudighi evolved into its own Michigan delicacy.

Legend has it that early Italian immigrants in the Upper Peninsula wanted to recreate their favorite sausages but had to make do with locally available ingredients. The result? A unique, spicy, and deeply flavorful sausage that became a regional favorite. It’s often served in a hoagie roll with mustard and onions, though some people prefer it loaded with marinara sauce and mozzarella either way, it’s absolutely delicious.

They say “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and if that’s true, then Cudighi is sure to win over anyone who takes a bite! Ready to give it a try? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cudighi Recipe

• Bold & Flavorful : This homemade sausage is packed with garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of red pepper for a perfect balance of spice and savoriness.
• Budget-Friendly: Making Cudighi at home costs way less than ordering takeout or buying pre-made sausage. Plus, you can control the quality of ingredients!
• Versatile & Customizable : Whether you love it classic with mustard and onions or loaded with marinara and cheese, you can make it just the way you like it!

How to Make Cudighi Recipe

Quick Overview

Making homemade Cudighi is easier than you think! The sausage is seasoned, shaped into patties, and either grilled or pan-fried to perfection. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious sandwich that rivals any restaurant version.

Key Ingredients for Cudighi Recipe

• 2 lbs ground pork
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup red wine
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Toppings: Yellow mustard, sliced onions, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sausage – In a large bowl, combine ground pork with salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Pour in red wine and mix thoroughly.
2. Shape into Patties – Divide the sausage mixture into 4-6 equal portions and form into oblong patties to fit your hoagie rolls.
3. Cook the Cudighi – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Assemble the Sandwich – Toast the hoagie rolls, then add the cooked sausage. Top with mustard and onions for the traditional version, or spoon marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for an Italian twist.
5. Serve & Enjoy – Serve hot with your favorite side dishes!

What to Serve Cudighi With

Cudighi pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Here are some delicious options:

• French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries – The crispy texture complements the juicy sausage perfectly.
• Italian Pasta Salad – A fresh and tangy side to balance the richness of the sandwich.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables – For a healthier option.
• Classic Coleslaw – Adds a nice crunch and a touch of sweetness.

Top Tips for Perfecting Cudighi

• Use Freshly Ground Pork – It makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
• Chill the Meat Mixture – Letting it rest for 30 minutes helps the spices blend.
• Don’t Overcook – Cudighi should be juicy, so avoid overcooking the patties.
• Customize the Heat – Add more red pepper flakes if you love extra spice!

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate Leftovers – Store cooked Cudighi patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later – Wrap raw patties individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat Properly – Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot.

Health Benefits of Cudighi

Cudighi Recipe From DelishDish!

Cudighi Recipe: How to Cook This Michigan Favorite

Recipe by MaryCourse: MainCuisine: Italian, AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Short Description Recipe: Cudighi is a flavorful Italian-American sausage, originally from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It’s made from a blend of pork, beef, and a variety of spices like garlic, paprika, and fennel. This recipe gives you a chance to create a rich, savory, and mildly spicy homemade cudighi sausage that can be enjoyed in a sandwich or as a standalone dish.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground pork

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp nutmeg

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 cup red wine

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 hoagie rolls

• Toppings: Yellow mustard, sliced onions, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese (optional)

Directions

• Prepare the Sausage : In a large bowl, combine ground pork with salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Pour in red wine and mix thoroughly.
• Shape into Patties : Divide the sausage mixture into 4-6 equal portions and form into oblong patties to fit your hoagie rolls.
• Cook the Cudighi : Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Assemble the Sandwich : Toast the hoagie rolls, then add the cooked sausage. Top with mustard and onions for the traditional version, or spoon marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for an Italian twist.
• Serve & Enjoy : Serve hot with your favorite side dishes!
• 

Notes

• Cudighi can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days.
  Adjust the level of spice according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
  For an authentic touch, serve cudighi in a hoagie roll with melted cheese and your choice of toppings.

Final Thoughts

The Cudighi Recipe is more than just a sandwich—it’s a bite of Michigan’s rich culinary history. Whether you stick to the traditional mustard and onions or go for the marinara and mozzarella combo, this flavorful sausage sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Give this recipe a try and let us know how you liked it in the comments below! And if you love hearty sandwiches, check out our Meatball Sub Recipe next!

FAQs: Cudighi Recipe

References

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