Classic Sausage Stuffing
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Create a delightful addition to your holiday table with this Classic Sausage Stuffing recipe. Packed with savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and perfectly toasted bread, this comfort food classic offers a rich and flavorful experience that complements any festive feast. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, this dish is sure to become a beloved tradition.
This Classic Sausage Stuffing recipe is a cherished family tradition that adds warmth and flavor to holiday gatherings. Every bite is infused with the essence of the season, making it an unforgettable side dish.
The Perfect Holiday Side Dish
Sausage stuffing has long been a cherished holiday tradition in many households. Its irresistible aroma and savory flavors bring a sense of warmth and togetherness, making it the perfect accompaniment to your festive meals. Whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any family gathering, this dish is sure to please your guests and elevate your dining experience.
This Classic Sausage Stuffing recipe combines savory sausage with a medley of fresh herbs, creating a delightful flavor profile that pairs beautifully with your favorite roasted meats. Imagine serving this alongside succulent turkey or glazed ham, enhancing the overall taste of your holiday feast. It's a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also fills the room with heartwarming memories.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
To achieve the best texture in your stuffing, using day-old bread is highly recommended. This allows the bread to absorb the broth without becoming mushy. Try using a hearty French or sourdough bread for a lovely crust and robust flavor that will stand up to the other ingredients.
Don’t be afraid to customize this recipe! Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apples for a hint of sweetness, or some toasted nuts for crunch. Those little variations not only enhance the flavor but also add an appealing twist that can make this classic dish your own.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Classic Sausage Stuffing:
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Classic Sausage Stuffing:
Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove excess fat and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add onion and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add Broth and Butter
Gradually add chicken broth and melted butter to the mixture until just moistened.
Bake the Stuffing
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you have a larger batch, consider freezing portions for future meals. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer bags, and label them with the date to keep track.
When ready to enjoy again, reheat the stuffing in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Adding a splash of chicken broth or a bit of butter before reheating can help restore moisture and enhance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
While sausage stuffing is delicious on its own, serving it as part of a larger spread makes it even more special. Pair it with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and a rich gravy for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Feel free to serve this stuffing as a side at non-holiday gatherings as well. It's great alongside grilled meats or even stuffed in pork chops. With its savory flavor, this dish can effortlessly transition from holiday star to a regular feature at family dinners.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
→ Can I use different types of bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any bread you like—stale bread works well too.
Classic Sausage Stuffing
Create a delightful addition to your holiday table with this Classic Sausage Stuffing recipe. Packed with savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and perfectly toasted bread, this comfort food classic offers a rich and flavorful experience that complements any festive feast. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gathering, this dish is sure to become a beloved tradition.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
How-To Steps
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove excess fat and set aside.
In the same skillet, add onion and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Gradually add chicken broth and melted butter to the mixture until just moistened.
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 10g