Classic Sausage Stuffing
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Elevate your holiday meals with this delightful Classic Sausage Stuffing recipe. Packed with savory herbs, hearty sausage, and perfectly toasted bread, this stuffing offers a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey and other festive favorites. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special gathering, this recipe is a timeless favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This Classic Sausage Stuffing brings warmth and flavor to your holiday table.
A Classic Side Dish
Sausage stuffing has been a beloved addition to holiday tables for generations. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a favorite alongside roasted meats. This recipe is not just for Thanksgiving; it can elevate any family gathering or festive feast. Guests will appreciate the hearty combination of savory sausage and crispy bread, creating a delightful contrast that enhances every bite.
The versatility of sausage stuffing is remarkable. You can experiment with various types of sausage to suit your taste, whether you prefer spicy Italian or mild breakfast sausage. Each variation offers a unique flavor profile, ensuring that this side dish never becomes mundane. With its ability to pair seamlessly with a wide range of main courses, this stuffing is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Tips for Perfection
To achieve the best texture, use day-old bread for your stuffing. Stale bread absorbs the broth beautifully, resulting in the ideal moistness without turning soggy. If you're in a pinch for time, you can also toast fresh bread cubes in the oven for a few minutes to dry them out before mixing them with the other ingredients.
Another great tip is to allow your stuffed dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This not only helps it set but also allows the flavors to meld together, making each bite even more delicious. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning—this will elevate the dish from good to great.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started:
Ingredients
- 1 pound of sausage (your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 cups of bread cubes, toasted
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth cooking experience.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your stuffing:
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove excess grease.
Sauté Vegetables
Add chopped onion and celery to the skillet; cook until softened.
Combine with Bread
In a large bowl, mix the sausage and vegetable mixture with the bread cubes, adding sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add Broth
Gradually stir in the chicken broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
Bake
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, until slightly crisp on top.
Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This classic sausage stuffing can be served alongside a variety of dishes, enhancing both flavor and texture on your plate. It pairs wonderfully with roast turkey, crispy chicken, or even a succulent ham. The savory notes balance out the meal perfectly and please a diverse array of palates at your gathering.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider serving your stuffing with a drizzle of homemade gravy or a side of cranberry sauce. The acidity of the cranberry can contrast delightfully with the richness of the stuffing, each bite offering a taste of the season.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover sausage stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain its texture, reheat in the oven covered with foil, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
If you wish to freeze the stuffing, cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above, ensuring the flavors are restored and the dish remains delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake it on the day of serving.
→ What can I substitute for sausage?
You can use a meat substitute or skip the meat for a vegetarian version.
Classic Sausage Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meals with this delightful Classic Sausage Stuffing recipe. Packed with savory herbs, hearty sausage, and perfectly toasted bread, this stuffing offers a comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with turkey and other festive favorites. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any special gathering, this recipe is a timeless favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound of sausage (your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 cups of bread cubes, toasted
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove excess grease.
Add chopped onion and celery to the skillet; cook until softened.
In a large bowl, mix the sausage and vegetable mixture with the bread cubes, adding sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Gradually stir in the chicken broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, until slightly crisp on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 10g