Sausage Stuffing Recipe

Name: Sausage Stuffing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 celery stalks, diced; 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary; 2 teaspoons minced fresh sage; 2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme; 3/4 cup dried cranberries; 2 1/2 cups chicken stock; 1 (12 oz) bag herbed stuffing mix

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Sausage stuffing is a classic holiday dish that brings together the savory goodness of sausage, the fragrant herbs, and the rich texture of bread stuffing. This easy sausage stuffing recipe, which incorporates the perfect balance of Italian sausage, cranberries, and fresh herbs, makes it an unforgettable addition to your Thanksgiving or holiday spread. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, and the result is a stuffing that tastes far better than store-bought alternatives, all while using minimal ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Stuffing Recipe

This sausage stuffing is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. By starting with a bag of store-bought bread stuffing mix, you can skip the time-consuming process of making bread cubes from scratch. What you end up with is a delicious, homemade-style stuffing that everyone will love.

Quick and Easy: No need to make your own bread cubes, simply enhance a pre-made stuffing mix.
Full of Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, dried cranberries, and fresh herbs creates a stuffing full of vibrant flavors.

Foolproof: This recipe avoids the common mistake of stuffing poultry, ensuring the perfect texture and cook time.

Ingredients for Sausage Stuffing

To make this hearty sausage stuffing, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in bringing out the dish’s delicious flavors.

Ground Italian Sausage: Adds savory richness and a hint of sweetness. You can choose mild or spicy based on preference.

Yellow Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Celery: Offers a fresh, crisp texture and a slight earthiness.
Fresh Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme: These herbs provide the quintessential aroma and taste that makes stuffing a holiday favorite.

Dried Cranberries: These add a pop of tartness and a beautiful contrast to the savory ingredients.
Chicken Broth: Moistens the stuffing and enriches its flavor.
Stuffing Mix: A 12-oz bag of your favorite stuffing mix (such as Pepperidge Farm) forms the base of the dish.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you don’t have some of the key ingredients or need to adjust for dietary preferences, here are some substitutions:

Sausage: Swap the mild Italian sausage for spicy Italian sausage, sweet breakfast sausage, or even sage-flavored sausage.
Herbs: If you don’t have fresh herbs, use dried alternatives like 1/2 teaspoon each of rosemary, sage, and thyme.

Cranberries: For a sweeter version, try dried cherries instead of cranberries, which will add a juicy burst of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sausage Stuffing

Making sausage stuffing is a breeze with these simple instructions. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouth-watering dish ready to go in no time.

Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 or 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. Set aside.

Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the fat begins to render out.
Add Vegetables and Herbs: Add the diced onion, celery, and minced rosemary, sage, and thyme to the sausage. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
Incorporate Cranberries and Broth: Stir in the dried cranberries and pour in the chicken broth. Cook for a few more minutes until the mixture is heated through.

Combine with Stuffing Mix: Turn off the heat and add the dried stuffing mix. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, serve your delicious sausage stuffing as a side dish to your favorite holiday meals.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sausage Stuffing

To ensure your sausage stuffing turns out perfect every time, here are a few tips and tricks:

Sausage Variations: If you prefer a different flavor, try using spicy sausage or a sweet breakfast sausage for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Baking Dish Size: For a more moist stuffing, use a 9×9 pan. For a crisper, more golden top, opt for a 9×13 pan to spread the stuffing in a thinner layer.

Herb Substitutes: If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can use dried poultry seasoning or a mixture of dried rosemary, sage, and thyme.
Cherries for Cranberries: If you want a sweeter stuffing, substitute dried cherries for the cranberries. Their larger size adds a unique texture and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Sausage stuffing pairs wonderfully with many other Thanksgiving and holiday dishes. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:

Ham: Serve with a juicy, slow-cooked ham or a baked ham with an orange glaze for a perfect holiday meal.
Turkey: For a traditional holiday spread, serve with a perfectly roasted turkey, complete with homemade turkey gravy made from drippings.
Other Sides: Complement your sausage stuffing with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and cranberry relish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffing up to 24 hours ahead of time. After following the recipe up to the baking step, cover and refrigerate the stuffing. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes and then bake as directed.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover sausage stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions of the stuffing in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Seasonal and Health Benefits of Sausage Stuffing

Sausage stuffing is not only delicious but also aligns perfectly with the autumn season. The herbs and cranberries give it a seasonal vibe, while the sausage adds richness and depth. This dish is a great way to enjoy a hearty, comforting side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to adjust for dietary needs, making it versatile for everyone at the table.

Conclusion

This easy sausage stuffing recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that elevates your holiday spread without requiring hours of preparation. With its perfect blend of Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and dried cranberries, it delivers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this stuffing will quickly become a favorite. Simple to make, full of flavor, and versatile enough for a variety of meal pairings, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of sausage for this stuffing recipe?

Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier kick, you can swap out the mild Italian sausage for spicy Italian sausage. For a sweeter option, try using breakfast sausage or sage-flavored sausage to change the flavor profile while maintaining the dish’s deliciousness.

2. How can I make this sausage stuffing vegetarian?

To make this sausage stuffing vegetarian, simply substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu. You can also add more vegetables, like mushrooms, to enhance the flavor and texture. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth to keep it fully vegetarian.

3. Can I prepare this sausage stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this stuffing up to 24 hours in advance. Follow the recipe up until it’s time to bake, then cover the dish and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature and bake as directed.

4. How should I store and reheat leftover sausage stuffing?

Store leftover sausage stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or bake it at 350°F until heated through. If you have a larger batch, you can freeze it for up to 3 months for later use

More Relevant Recipes

Sausage and Veggies Pasta – Autumn Dinner: This hearty pasta dish combines Italian sausage with roasted autumn vegetables, making it a perfect complement to your holiday meal. With a savory blend of flavors, it’s a cozy dinner option for any season.
Creamy Pumpkin Gnocchi Recipe: Featuring rich pumpkin and creamy sauce, this gnocchi recipe is a comforting fall dish. It pairs wonderfully with sausage stuffing as both showcase the sweet, savory combination that makes autumn meals special.

Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe: Roasted butternut squash with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette creates a flavorful, seasonal salad. It pairs excellently with sausage stuffing, bringing an earthy sweetness that balances the richness of the stuffing.

Sausage Stuffing Recipe – Easy & Delicious

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