Print

Sausage Stuffing Thanksgiving Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 101 reviews

This classic Sausage Stuffing recipe is a flavorful and hearty side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal. Combining savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, fresh vegetables, and tender bread cubes, this stuffing brings a comforting and rich taste that complements turkey, chicken, or pork dishes. Optional additions like dried cranberries and nuts add delightful texture and a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage Mixture

  • 1 pound bulk Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference)
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)

Bread and Binding

  • 1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old bread, such as French or sourdough, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

Optional Additions

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries for a touch of sweetness
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture

Instructions

  1. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the Italian sausage until fully browned. Remove excess fat if necessary. Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Herbs and Seasoning: Stir in the fresh parsley, sage, thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed day-old bread in a large mixing bowl. If the bread is fresh, toast the cubes in the oven beforehand to dry them out slightly.
  4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted unsalted butter, and beaten eggs until fully combined.
  5. Mix All Components: Pour the sausage and vegetable mixture into the bowl with the bread cubes. Add any optional dried cranberries or chopped nuts if using. Pour the broth and egg mixture over everything and toss gently to combine, ensuring the bread cubes are evenly coated but not soggy.
  6. Bake the Stuffing: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the stuffing rest for a few minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread cubes.
  • Using day-old bread helps the stuffing absorb flavors without becoming too mushy.
  • Adjust the amount of herbs according to your taste preference.
  • Add nuts and dried fruit for texture and sweetness, but they can be omitted if preferred.
  • Make sure to use low sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.

Keywords: Thanksgiving stuffing, sausage stuffing, holiday side dish, Italian sausage stuffing, savory stuffing recipe

Find it online: https://busyrecipe.com/sausage-stuffing-thanksgiving-recipe/