This savory sausage stuffing is packed with flavor and makes the perfect side for any meal. It’s a delightful mix of sausage, bread, and herbs that everyone loves!
When I make this stuffing, I can’t help but sneak spoonfuls while cooking! It pairs beautifully with turkey, but honestly, I’d enjoy it anytime, anywhere. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish, bringing a wonderful flavor. If you need a lighter option, try turkey sausage, or for a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute like plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
Bread: Sturdy choices like French or sourdough bread work best. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-packaged stuffing mix. Just reduce the broth a bit to keep it from getting soggy!
Onion & Celery: The classic mirepoix gives a nice base flavor. If you’re avoiding onions, leeks or shallots make a good substitute. As for celery, you could replace it with chopped bell peppers for a different spin.
Herbs: Sage, thyme, and rosemary give great flavor! Feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them, or dried Italian seasoning as a convenient alternative.
Broth: Homemade stock is best, but store-bought works too! For a vegetarian stuffing, simply use vegetable broth. If you prefer a low-sodium option, select that variety to control salt levels.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing Is Fluffy and Not Soggy?
Getting the right texture in your stuffing requires a balance of moisture. Here are some tips:
- Use Stale Bread: Dry bread absorbs liquid better. If bread is fresh, toast it first to remove moisture.
- Moisture Check: When adding broth, do it gradually. You want the stuffing to be moist, but not soaking. It should hold its shape when pressed.
- Bake Covered, Then Uncovered: Start baking covered to keep moisture in, then remove the foil for the last part to get that lovely crisp top.
Following these steps will help achieve stuffing that is fluffy, flavorful, and simply irresistible! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Delicious Sausage Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of sturdy bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (like French bread or sourdough), preferably stale or toasted
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2-3 cups (480-720ml) chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
Binds and Garnish:
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 45-50 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes on prep work and about 30-35 minutes baking the stuffing to perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Bread:
If your bread cubes are fresh, spread them on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes to dry them out and lightly toast them. If they are already stale, you can skip this step. Once toasted, set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add in the chopped onion and celery, and cook until they are softened and translucent, usually about 5-7 minutes. This adds a lovely flavor to the stuffing!
4. Add Garlic and Sausage:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Then, add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon, cooking until it is browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
5. Season It Up:
Mix in the dried sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Once everything is well combined, remove the skillet from heat.
6. Combine with Bread:
In a large bowl, toss the toasted bread cubes with the cooked sausage mixture. Make sure to mix them gently so that the bread absorbs the flavors!
7. Whisk the Broth and Eggs:
In another bowl, whisk together the warm chicken or vegetable broth with the beaten eggs until well blended.
8. Mix It All Together:
Pour the broth and egg mixture over the bread and sausage in the bowl. Gently toss to moisten everything evenly, ensuring it’s moist but not overly soggy. Add more broth if you think the stuffing needs it.
9. Bake the Stuffing:
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Cover it with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
10. Crisp the Top:
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
11. Ready to Serve:
Once it’s done, if you’d like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely presentation. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty sausage stuffing as a perfect side dish!
This stuffing is sure to be a hit for your next family gathering or holiday feast. Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. For a spicier kick, try chorizo or a spicy Italian sausage!
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Can I Make This Stuffing Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing up to a day in advance. Just follow the instructions until step 8, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before proceeding to bake it.
What Should I Serve with Sausage Stuffing?
This stuffing pairs wonderfully with roast turkey, chicken, or pork dishes. It’s also delicious alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal!
