When it comes to Thanksgiving or any holiday feast, stuffing is an essential side dish. But not just any stuffing—this sausage stuffing recipe is full of savory flavors, with a rich, hearty combination of sausage, fresh herbs, and the perfect mix of textures. Whether you’re preparing a Thanksgiving turkey, roast chicken, or even a weeknight dinner, this stuffing will elevate any meal.
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of making the best sausage stuffing. From selecting the right ingredients to preparing and baking, you’ll learn how to make a mouth-watering, savory dish that will have your guests begging for the recipe.
What You’ll Need to Make Sausage Stuffing
Before you dive into the process, it’s important to gather all the ingredients for this delicious sausage stuffing. Let’s break down the essentials:
Ingredients List:
Store-bought unseasoned stuffing cubes (or you can dry your own bread cubes)
Unsalted butter for flavor and moisture
Yellow onion and celery for savory depth
Garlic to enhance the flavor profile
Bulk sweet Italian sausage (or sausage with casings removed)
Low-sodium chicken broth to keep the stuffing moist
Large egg to help bind the mixture together
Fresh herbs: rosemary, sage, and parsley for that signature holiday taste
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to season
How to Make Sausage Stuffing
Now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s get cooking! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect sausage stuffing.
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes
Start by measuring out your bread cubes. If you’re using store-bought unseasoned stuffing cubes, you’re good to go. However, if you’re using fresh bread, cut it into cubes and let it dry out. You can dry the bread by placing it in a single layer on a baking sheet at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This step ensures that your bread cubes are perfectly absorbent for the flavorful broth.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery to the pan. Stir occasionally and cook for about 8 minutes or until they soften. Then add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. These veggies will form the aromatic base of the stuffing.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
In the same skillet (no need to clean it!), crumble the Italian sausage into the pan and cook until browned and cooked through. Use a spatula to break the sausage into small pieces. Once cooked, transfer the sausage mixture to a large bowl, along with the cooked onions, celery, and garlic.
Step 4: Mix It All Together
In your large mixing bowl, add the prepared stuffing cubes, the sausage and veggie mixture, and the fresh herbs (rosemary, sage, and parsley). Season with salt and pepper. Whisk the egg and pour it over the mixture. Stir it together, making sure the bread cubes absorb the flavors. Gradually add the chicken broth a little at a time. The stuffing should be moist but not soggy—so be mindful of how much broth you add.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. If you like a bit of extra richness, you can dot the top with more butter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 65 to 75 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Stir the stuffing gently every 20 minutes to ensure even crisping.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, this sausage stuffing can be made a day or two ahead of time. Prepare the stuffing as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover the bowl or casserole dish tightly and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed, but allow for a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze sausage stuffing?
This sausage stuffing recipe also freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it in the refrigerator for 24 hours, then reheat in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, until hot.
Tips for the Perfect Sausage Stuffing
Bread Selection: Use hearty bread that can absorb the broth. Stale bread is ideal, but if you’re short on time, drying it in the oven works too.
Sausage: Sweet Italian sausage gives the stuffing a deliciously savory base. Feel free to use mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste preferences.
Herbs: Fresh herbs are key to making this stuffing recipe flavorful. If you must use dried herbs, remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so reduce the amount you use.
Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth ensures the stuffing doesn’t get too salty, especially if you’re using pre-seasoned bread cubes.
Why This Sausage Stuffing Recipe is the Best
What makes this sausage stuffing recipe so great? It strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The sausage provides richness, while the vegetables and fresh herbs add savory depth. The bread cubes soak up the broth beautifully, creating a moist, flavorful stuffing that bakes up crisp on top.
Unlike some other stuffing recipes, this one is adaptable. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking, add extra vegetables, or even incorporate a bit of cheese if you like a richer stuffing.
How to Make Sausage Stuffing: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making sausage stuffing from scratch is a simple and rewarding process that fills your home with the delicious smells of the holiday season. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the best sausage stuffing recipe that will complement any main dish, especially a perfectly roasted turkey.
Ingredients
Before you begin, ensure you have all the ingredients ready:
Sausage: Use bulk sweet Italian sausage, or remove the casings from whole sausages. The sausage adds rich flavor and is a key ingredient in this recipe.
Bread: You’ll need store-bought unseasoned stuffing cubes. Alternatively, you can use day-old bread that has been cut into cubes and dried out.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the seasoning level, and it helps in sautéing the vegetables.
Aromatics: Yellow onions, celery, and garlic provide the savory base flavor that complements the sausage.
Herbs: Fresh rosemary, sage, and parsley are traditional herbs used in sausage stuffing that bring a fresh, earthy taste to the dish.
Eggs and Broth: Eggs bind the stuffing together, while low-sodium chicken broth adds moisture and richness.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by heating a skillet and melting the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and diced celery. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and aromatic. Once they’re ready, add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes to release its fragrance.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In the same skillet, add the sausage and cook over medium heat. Use a spatula to break it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, remove the pan from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the store-bought stuffing cubes (or your own dried bread cubes). Then, pour in the sautéed vegetable mixture along with the cooked sausage. Add the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, whisk an egg in a separate bowl and pour it over the bread mixture. Follow with the chicken broth, starting with 2 ¾ cups and adding more if needed. The goal is to moisten the bread cubes without making the mixture soggy. Stir everything together until the bread is evenly soaked but still holds its shape.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffing
Transfer the prepared stuffing into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. If desired, dot the top with a bit more butter for added richness. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 45 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.
Make-Ahead Instructions
This sausage stuffing recipe is incredibly versatile and can be prepared ahead of time to save you time on the big day. Here’s how to make it in advance:
Prepare the Stuffing: Follow all the steps in the recipe until it’s ready to be baked.
Refrigerate: Cover the stuffing tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Bake When Ready: When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge at least 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes if needed.
This method is especially helpful if you’re making multiple dishes and need to streamline your cooking process. The flavors will have time to meld, making it even more flavorful when baked.
Freezing Instructions
Stuffing can also be frozen for later use. Here’s how to do it:
Cool the Stuffing: Once it’s baked and fully cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish.
Freeze: Store the stuffing in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheat: To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it covered with foil at 325°F (160°C) until hot. Add a splash of chicken broth if it seems too dry.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Sausage Stuffing
Bread Choice: You can mix different types of bread, like sourdough or whole wheat, to add unique textures and flavors. However, ensure the bread is dried out so it can soak up the broth and retain its shape.
Sausage Variations: If you prefer a spicier stuffing, try using spicy Italian sausage. You can also experiment with adding ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by half. Fresh herbs provide a much bolder flavor.
Texture: For a crispier top, bake the stuffing uncovered for the entire time. If you prefer a softer stuffing, cover it with foil for the first 45 minutes.
Why This Sausage Stuffing Recipe Stands Out
The richness of the sausage, combined with the savory flavors of fresh herbs, creates a stuffing that perfectly complements roasted meats. This recipe balances flavor, texture, and ease of preparation, ensuring your holiday meal is both delicious and stress-free. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special gathering, this sausage stuffing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of the dishes you prepare can help you balance your meals. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving of this delicious sausage stuffing recipe:
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
Calories: 467
Fat: 28 grams
Saturated Fat: 10 grams
Carbohydrates: 40 grams
Sugar: 5 grams
Fiber: 6 grams
Protein: 15 grams
Sodium: 1,063 mg
Potassium: 443 mg
Vitamin A: 435 IU
Vitamin C: 6.8 mg
Calcium: 61 mg
Iron: 1.4 mg
Variations and Substitutions for Sausage Stuffing
One of the great things about stuffing is that it’s easily customizable. You can add or subtract ingredients depending on your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas for making this sausage stuffing recipe your own:
1. Adding Vegetables
Carrots: Finely grated carrots can add color and a slight sweetness to balance the savory sausage.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms can add an earthy depth of flavor and pair well with the sausage.
Bell Peppers: If you like a little more crunch and flavor, adding diced bell peppers can bring an additional layer of taste.
2. Switching Up the Sausage
Spicy Sausage: For a bit of heat, use spicy Italian sausage instead of the sweet variety.
Turkey Sausage: For a leaner version, substitute turkey sausage for the traditional pork sausage.
Vegetarian Sausage: If you prefer a meatless version, you can use plant-based sausage for a similar flavor profile.
3. Herb Variations
Thyme and Sage: While rosemary, sage, and parsley are the traditional herbs, you can try adding thyme for a slightly different flavor. Thyme works especially well with turkey and sausage.
Herb Blends: If you’re in a pinch, you can use an Italian seasoning blend, which typically includes a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
4. Bread Alternatives
Gluten-Free Bread: For a gluten-free version, substitute the regular bread cubes with gluten-free bread. Just make sure to dry it out thoroughly before using it in the stuffing.
Cornbread: Add some southern flair to your stuffing by incorporating cornbread cubes into the mix. This gives the stuffing a slightly sweet and crumbly texture.
How to Serve Your Sausage Stuffing
Sausage stuffing is a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with many main courses, particularly during the holiday season. Here are some great meal ideas to serve alongside your sausage stuffing:
1. Turkey
Sausage stuffing is a classic pairing with roasted turkey. The savory sausage flavor complements the turkey perfectly, and the crispy golden top of the stuffing adds a wonderful texture contrast.
2. Chicken
Whether you’re making a roast chicken or chicken breasts, this stuffing adds a hearty, flavorful side dish that brings everything together.
3. Pork Roast
Pork and sausage are a natural pairing, and this stuffing will enhance the rich, savory flavors of a perfectly roasted pork loin or pork tenderloin.
4. Vegetarian Dishes
For a more vegetarian-friendly meal, serve the sausage stuffing as a standalone dish alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a light salad.
FAQs On Sausage Stuffing Recipe
How to make the best stuffing with sausage?
To make the best stuffing with sausage, use high-quality sausage (preferably bulk sausage without casings). Brown the sausage until it’s crispy, then mix it with sautéed onions, celery, and garlic. Combine this with dried bread cubes, herbs like sage and rosemary, chicken broth, and an egg for binding. Bake it until the top is golden brown and crispy, ensuring that the stuffing stays moist inside.
Is stuffing better with or without eggs?
Eggs help to bind the ingredients together and give stuffing a cohesive texture. They are often used in traditional recipes to ensure the stuffing holds together when served. Without eggs, the stuffing may be more crumbly. So, if you prefer a firmer, cohesive texture, eggs are a great addition.
Is it better to make stuffing the day before?
Yes, making stuffing the day before can actually enhance its flavor. Preparing it in advance allows the bread to absorb all the flavorful liquids and seasonings. Just be sure to refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. If baking from the fridge, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through properly.
How soggy should stuffing be before baking?
Before baking, your stuffing should be moist but not soggy. When mixing the bread cubes with the broth, you want the bread to absorb the liquid but not become swimming in it. The stuffing should be damp, but you shouldn’t see standing liquid. If it looks too dry, add a little more broth to achieve the right texture.
How to make your stuffing crispy?
To make your stuffing crispy, bake it uncovered at a high temperature, around 350°F. If you like extra crunch, dot the top of the stuffing with additional butter before baking. For even more crispiness, you can stir the stuffing halfway through baking, allowing the edges to get more golden. You can also place it under the broiler for a few minutes at the end for a final crispy topping.
Are you supposed to cook the stuffing before putting it in?
If you’re using stuffing to stuff a turkey, the stuffing should be cooked before being stuffed. This ensures that it reaches a safe temperature quickly while avoiding any risk of foodborne illness. If you’re baking the stuffing separately, however, it is not necessary to cook it first, as it will cook fully in the oven when baked.
Sausage Stuffing Recipe
1. Ingredients
8 cups (400g) store-bought unseasoned stuffing cubes
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
1½ cups diced yellow onion (from 1 large onion)
1 cup diced celery (from 3 celery stalks)
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 pound bulk sweet Italian sausage (sausage with casings removed)
2¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 large egg, beaten
1 tablespoon fresh chopped rosemary
1 tablespoon fresh chopped sage
¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2. Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter.
Place the stuffing cubes in a large mixing bowl.
In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and celery, and cook over medium heat for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Transfer the vegetables to the stuffing cubes (don’t wash the pan, use all the flavorful bits in the next step).
In the same pan, cook the sausage over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Break the sausage into small pieces using a metal spatula while cooking. Add the browned sausage and fat to the bread cubes and vegetables.
Add the chicken broth, beaten egg, rosemary, sage, parsley, salt, and pepper to the bread cube mixture and mix until the bread is soft and moistened.
Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake uncovered for 65-75 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crisp.
3. Notes
Sausage: If you can’t find bulk sausage, you can buy sausage links and remove the casings.
Herbs: Fresh herbs give the stuffing a richer flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary. Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.
Broth: If you want a richer flavor, use turkey broth instead of chicken broth.
Make Ahead: The stuffing can be made ahead of time, assembled, and refrigerated for up to 48 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
4. Nutritional Facts (per serving)
Calories: 467 kcal
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 5g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 1,063mg
Potassium: 443mg
Cholesterol: 27mg
Vitamin A: 435 IU
Vitamin C: 6.8mg
Calcium: 61mg
Iron: 1.4mg
5. Prep Time: 10 minutes |
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, Holiday
