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Sausage Stuffing

Sausage Stuffing
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This rich and flavorful sausage stuffing combines hearty Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and perfectly toasted bread cubes for a comforting and festive side dish. With a crispy exterior and tender inside, it’s easy to customize and ideal for any holiday gathering. Prepare ahead and bake fresh for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing accompaniment to turkey, chicken, or ham.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or mild based on preference)
  • 8 cups day-old bread cubes (1-inch pieces)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Optional Variations

  • 1 cup diced apples
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1–2 jalapeños, chopped or 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for spice
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced and sautéed
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or parmesan cheese
  • Substitute gluten-free bread cubes or 2 cups cooked quinoa for gluten-free option

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and spread evenly on a baking sheet. Toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until golden and slightly crispy to create the perfect base.
  2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Transfer the sausage to a bowl, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
  3. Sauté Veggies and Herbs: Add diced onions and celery to the skillet with the sausage fat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and fresh herbs during the last minute to release their aromas.
  4. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and herbs. Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth while gently tossing to moisten the bread without making it soggy.
  5. Bind with Eggs: Beat the eggs separately, then fold them into the mixture to ensure the stuffing holds together when baked.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, dot the top with butter pieces, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes. Bake until the top is golden brown and crisp, and the stuffing is heated through.

Notes

  • Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor impact.
  • Always use day-old bread to prevent mushy stuffing.
  • Toast the bread cubes before mixing for optimal texture.
  • Add broth gradually to avoid a soggy stuffing.
  • Let the baked stuffing rest 5-10 minutes before serving to set up.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage stuffing, holiday side dish, stuffing recipe, sausage and herb stuffing, Thanksgiving stuffing, Christmas stuffing

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/sausage-stuffing/