This sausage stuffing is a warm, tasty dish that makes every bite feel like a hug! With savory sausage, fluffy bread, and spices, it’s perfect for any holiday meal.
What I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make! You just mix it up, stuff it in your turkey or serve it on the side. Trust me, no one will leave any leftovers! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This gives the stuffing its hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works great too. For a vegetarian twist, consider using plant-based sausage or finely diced mushrooms to add umami.
Bread: Stale or dried bread is perfect for stuffing. You can use white bread, sourdough, or even cornbread! If you need gluten-free, try gluten-free bread. Just ensure it’s a bit dried out for the best texture.
Onion and Celery: These two add a necessary base flavor. If you’re not a fan of onion, leeks or shallots can be substituted. I sometimes add bell peppers for extra sweetness!
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and sage truly elevate the dish. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs will do just fine—remember to use less since dried is more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing is Perfectly Moist, Yet Not Soggy?
Getting the right moisture level in stuffing can be tricky! Here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect consistency:
- Ensure your bread is slightly stale or dried out; this helps it absorb broth without becoming mushy.
- Pour the broth gradually into the mixture. Start with less and add more as needed. You want it damp but not swimming in liquid.
- If using, the beaten egg will help bind and give structure to your stuffing. Feel free to skip it if you’re after a looser mix.
After baking, the top should be crispy. If you find it’s not browning enough, give it a few extra minutes under the broiler—just keep an eye on it!
How to Make Delicious Sausage Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 10 cups bread cubes (day-old or dried, preferably white or sourdough)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 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, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 egg, beaten (for binding)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sausage stuffing takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and then 30-40 minutes to bake. You’ll have a warm, savory stuffing ready in under an hour! Perfect for any holiday feast or special dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or any similar casserole dish you have on hand. This step ensures your stuffing doesn’t stick!
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the chopped onions and diced celery. Cook them until they become soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This is where the flavor starts to build!
3. Add Garlic and Sausage:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s nice and fragrant. Then, add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and fully cooked, which takes about 8-10 minutes. If there is any excess fat, drain it out—nobody likes greasy stuffing!
4. Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes, the cooked sausage mixture (including veggies), chopped parsley, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together so it’s mixed evenly.
5. Add Chicken Broth:
Now, gradually pour the chicken broth over the mixture, stirring gently until the bread is moistened. You’re looking for a balance here—moist but not soggy! If you’d like a firmer stuffing texture, now’s the time to add the beaten egg and mix it in.
6. Transfer and Bake:
Transfer your stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake it uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and everything is heated through. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. If you’d like, garnish with some extra fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve your delicious sausage stuffing warm with your favorite roast or as part of a festive spread!
Enjoy your flavorful, hearty sausage stuffing and watch everyone come back for seconds (or thirds)! 🎉
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option, or even a vegetarian sausage for a meatless version. Feel free to mix and match flavors to suit your taste!
What Can I Use Instead of Bread Cubes?
If you’re out of bread cubes, you can use cornbread or even gluten-free bread if needed. Just make sure it’s a bit dried out for the best texture in your stuffing.
Can I Make This Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Simply assemble the mixture, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it right before serving—just add a few minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
