This sausage stuffing is a warm and hearty side dish that’s perfect for any gathering. With bits of savory sausage, bread, and spices, it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
Honestly, I could just eat this by itself! It’s so tasty and fills you up. Plus, it’s super easy to make, just mix, bake, and enjoy the delicious smell in your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sausage: I recommend using breakfast sausage for its flavorful spices. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works too! Just ensure it has good seasoning.
Bread: Day-old bread is best because it soaks up the moisture without getting mushy. Sourdough gives a nice texture, but any sturdy bread will do. Stale baguette or whole wheat can work nicely as alternatives!
Fresh Herbs: Sage and thyme are traditional for stuffing. If you’re short on time, dried herbs work well too. Just use about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also use stock if you want a richer flavor.
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Toasted Bread for the Stuffing?
Toasting the bread correctly is crucial for the perfect stuffing texture. It holds together without becoming mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread evenly on a baking sheet.
- Toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as you want it golden, not burnt!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also toast them in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally. Just remember to let them cool before mixing them in!
Delicious Sausage Stuffing Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (Italian or sage flavored works well)
- 1 loaf (about 10 cups) day-old bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (preferably a sturdy white or sourdough bread)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (adjust as needed)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Time Needed to Prepare:
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 45-50 minutes of baking time. In total, you should set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes to whip up this delicious stuffing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish to ensure your stuffing doesn’t stick.
2. Toast the Bread:
Spread the bread cubes on a large baking sheet. Place them in the oven and toast for about 10-15 minutes until they’re dry and slightly golden. This helps them soak up the flavors without getting soggy.
3. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage. Break it up with a spoon until it’s fully browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, transfer the sausage to a large mixing bowl, keeping the delicious drippings in the skillet.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onions and celery to the skillet with the sausage drippings. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Transfer the cooked onion and celery mix into the bowl with the sausage. Add the toasted bread cubes, chopped parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
6. Prepare the Liquid Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Gradually pour this mixture over the stuffing mix, stirring gently until the bread is moistened but not soggy. If you need more moisture, feel free to add a bit more broth.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the stuffing mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Bake the Stuffing:
Cover the dish with foil and pop it into the oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
9. Let it Rest:
When the stuffing is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Feel free to garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch!
This sausage stuffing makes a delightful side dish that complements any meal. Enjoy the flavorful blend of savory sausage and aromatic herbs in every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While breakfast sausage is traditional, you can use Italian sausage for a spicier kick, or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned to enhance the stuffing flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. On the day you want to serve it, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed. You may want to add a little extra broth if it seems dry.
What Kind of Bread Is Best for Stuffing?
Sturdy breads like sourdough, French bread, or whole wheat are ideal because they hold up well to the moisture. Make sure it’s day-old or slightly stale to prevent sogginess.