Sausage Stuffing Recipe – Easy & Flavorful Holiday Side

Sausage stuffing is a flavorful and savory addition to any holiday meal, combining the richness of Italian sausage with the freshness of herbs and the sweetness of dried cranberries. This easy sausage stuffing recipe takes a shortcut with pre-packaged bread stuffing, transforming it into a deliciously homemade side dish. Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers big on flavor.

Why This Sausage Stuffing Recipe is a Must-Try

Sausage stuffing is the perfect dish to complement your holiday turkey or ham. This easy-to-make recipe features a unique blend of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and a hint of sweetness from dried cranberries. The addition of store-bought bread stuffing mix makes it a breeze to prepare, cutting down on prep time without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or looking for an easy dish to take to a family dinner, this sausage stuffing is a hit!

Ingredients for Sausage Stuffing

To make this easy sausage stuffing, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a dish full of autumn flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Italian Sausage: Adds a rich, savory flavor and a bit of sweetness to the stuffing.
• Onion: A diced yellow onion adds sweetness and depth to the stuffing.
• Celery: Adds a crunchy texture and a subtle freshness.
• Fresh Herbs (Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme): These aromatic herbs give the stuffing a fragrant and savory kick, perfect for the holiday season.
• Dried Cranberries: These add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to balance the savory flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps the stuffing moist and enhances the flavors of the sausage and herbs.
• Bread Stuffing Mix: The shortcut ingredient that creates the base of the stuffing, making this recipe quick and easy to prepare.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Sausage Stuffing

If you’re looking to adjust the recipe based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, here are a few swaps:

• Sausage: You can substitute the mild Italian sausage with spicy Italian sausage for a kick, or use breakfast sausage for a slightly different flavor.
• Herbs: If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs like poultry seasoning or a combination of dried rosemary, sage, and thyme.
• Dried Cranberries: Dried cherries make a great substitute if you prefer a sweeter bite in your stuffing.
• Stuffing Mix: Feel free to use gluten-free bread stuffing mix for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sausage Stuffing

Making sausage stuffing from scratch (or rather, semi-scratch) is easy and straightforward. Follow these steps for a flavorful dish that will become your holiday favorite:

1. Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 or 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray and set it aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground Italian sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks, to release some of the fat.
3. Add Vegetables and Herbs: Add the diced onion, celery, rosemary, sage, and thyme to the sausage. Continue cooking until the sausage is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender (about 10 minutes).
4. Stir in Cranberries and Broth: Add the dried cranberries and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook over medium-high heat until the broth is warmed through.
5. Combine with Stuffing Mix: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the bread stuffing mix. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
6. Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the stuffing is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious, hearty side dish!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sausage Stuffing

• Adjust the Sausage Flavor: If you don’t care for mild sausage, try using spicy Italian sausage or a sage-flavored breakfast sausage for a different taste profile.
• Herb Substitutes: No fresh herbs? You can substitute 1 teaspoon of dried poultry seasoning or 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary, sage, and thyme in place of the fresh herbs.
• Crispier Texture: If you prefer a crispier texture, use a 9×13-inch pan instead of a 9×9-inch pan to spread the sausage stuffing into a thinner layer.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sausage stuffing up to 24 hours ahead. After assembling the dish, cover it with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Sausage Stuffing

This sausage stuffing pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Main Dishes: Serve this stuffing alongside a succulent turkey, ham, or even a roast chicken for a comforting and filling meal.
• Side Dishes: It complements classic holiday sides like mashed potatoes, green beans, or cranberry sauce.
• Make-ahead Options: Prepare the sausage stuffing in advance, as mentioned earlier, for an easier meal on the big day. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Seasonal and Health Benefits of Sausage Stuffing

Sausage stuffing is perfect for the fall and winter months, bringing together seasonal flavors like rosemary, sage, and cranberries. This recipe is rich in protein from the sausage and provides a satisfying dish that can be adjusted for various dietary needs. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving or another holiday, this hearty stuffing will warm up your guests and fill them with festive cheer.

Conclusion

This easy sausage stuffing recipe is a perfect blend of savory, aromatic, and slightly sweet flavors that will complement any holiday meal. The addition of Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and dried cranberries elevates a simple store-bought stuffing mix into something truly special. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive occasion, this sausage stuffing will become a go-to side dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe proves that great food doesn’t need to be complicated. Try it today and experience how easy it is to create a homemade holiday favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Sausage & Veggies Pasta: Comforting Fall Meal: This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of sausage with tender veggies, making it a perfect fall meal. It’s a comforting dish similar to sausage stuffing, with a savory profile and an easy-to-make approach.
• Sausage Stuffed Butternut Squash Recipe: A wonderful variation of sausage stuffing, this recipe combines roasted butternut squash with savory sausage filling. It brings together a blend of sweetness and savory flavors, perfect for any holiday meal or cozy dinner.
• Creamy Butternut Squash Gnocchi with Sausage: This dish takes the rich flavors of butternut squash and sausage and combines them with soft gnocchi, creating a creamy, comforting meal. It’s a perfect follow-up if you’re looking for more ways to incorporate sausage and squash into your meals.

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