Sausage Stuffing

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, savory dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, **sausage stuffing** is exactly what you need. This dish combines the rich flavors of seasoned sausage with hearty bread, herbs, and a few simple ingredients that transform into a moist and flavorful stuffing. Perfect not only for holiday dinners but as a satisfying meal any day of the week, sausage stuffing is quick to prepare, endlessly versatile, and downright delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple yet flavorful: The combination of sausage and fresh herbs creates a flavor that’s rich and inviting without being complicated.
• Perfect for all occasions: Whether it’s a festive feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this sausage stuffing fits beautifully.
• Easy to customize: You can add your favorite veggies or adjust seasonings to suit your palate.
• Great texture balance: Crispy edges with a soft, moist interior make every bite satisfying.
• One-pot convenience: Minimal cleanup with ingredients often already in your pantry or fridge.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the perfect sausage stuffing starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that play essential roles in the dish’s flavor, texture, and color. Each item adds a layer of deliciousness you’re going to love.

• Italian sausage: Choose spicy or mild depending on your taste, this is the heart of the dish.
• Day-old bread cubes: Stale bread soaks up moisture without becoming soggy, giving great texture.
• Onion and celery: These vegetables add a fresh crunch and natural sweetness.
• Chicken broth: Provides rich moisture that ties everything together.
• Fresh herbs (sage, thyme, rosemary): Must-haves for that classic stuffing flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the veggies perfectly.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every ingredient’s flavor.

Variations for Sausage Stuffing

One of the best parts about sausage stuffing is how easily you can tweak it to fit what you have on hand or your specific cravings. Here are some fun ways to make the classic recipe uniquely yours:

• Apple and walnut addition: Toss in diced apples and toasted walnuts for a sweet and crunchy twist.
• Spicy chorizo swap: Replace Italian sausage with chorizo for a smoky, fiery edge.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread to keep it friendly for gluten sensitivities.
• Mushroom medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to deepen the umami flavor.
• Vegetarian version: Use plant-based sausage alternatives to keep it meat-free but still hearty.

How to Make Sausage Stuffing

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Tear the day-old bread into bite-sized cubes and spread them on a baking sheet. Toast them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until they’re golden and slightly crisp. This step ensures your stuffing won’t get mushy.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the sausage until browned and cooked through. Remove it from the pan and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Herbs

Add butter to the same pan, then sauté diced onion and celery until soft and translucent. Stir in fresh herbs and cook for another minute to wake up their aromas.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed veggies together. Slowly pour in warm chicken broth while mixing until everything is moistened but not soggy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the stuffing mixture to a buttered baking dish and bake uncovered at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy around the edges.

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Stuffing

• Use day-old bread: Fresh bread can create soggy stuffing, so a day or two old is best.
• Keep broth warm: Adding cold broth can slow cooking and make the mixture mushy.
• Don’t overmix: Stir gently to keep the bread cubes intact for varied texture.
• Herbs are key: Fresh herbs add brightness that balances the richness of the sausage.
• Bake uncovered: This allows the top to brown nicely and adds a delightful crunch.

How to Serve Sausage Stuffing

Garnishes

Garnish your sausage stuffing with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or even toasted pecans to add visual appeal and extra flavor pops.

Side Dishes

This sausage stuffing pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance its richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve sausage stuffing inside roasted acorn squash or use it as a hearty filling for stuffed bell peppers for a festive twist on tradition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sausage stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and tasty.

Freezing

Freeze the stuffing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover stuffing in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy on top, or microwave for a quicker option, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I make sausage stuffing without bread?

Yes! You can substitute bread with alternatives like cornbread cubes or even cooked grains such as quinoa for a different texture and flavor.

Is sausage stuffing always baked?

Baking is the traditional way to finish sausage stuffing, but you can also cook it in a covered skillet on the stove or use it as a filling for poultry or vegetables.

What type of sausage works best for stuffing?

Italian sausage is most common because of its seasoning, but breakfast sausage, chorizo, or any flavorful ground sausage will add delicious depth.

Can I prepare sausage stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the stuffing the day before, refrigerate, and bake on the day you plan to serve for convenience and even better flavor integration.

How do I keep sausage stuffing moist?

Use enough broth to moisten the bread without making it soggy and bake uncovered to get a balance of moist interior and crispy top.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to cooking or looking to add a timeless favorite to your recipe box, sausage stuffing is sure to become a go-to comfort dish in your kitchen. Its simplicity, versatility, and bold flavor make it a winner every time. Grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Happy cooking!

Related Posts

• Honey Roasted Carrots with Garlic Butter
• Crispy Skin Turkey (Crockpot)
• Honey Garlic Chicken Breast

Print