The rich, savory combination of seasoned bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and perfectly browned sausage makes this Sausage & Herb Stuffing a standout side dish for any holiday feast. Each bite is bursting with flavor, from the tender chunks of celery and onion to the subtle warmth of poultry seasoning. Whether served alongside a golden-brown turkey or a festive roast, this stuffing is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile bake it in the oven for a crispy top or prepare it in a slow cooker to save valuable oven space during busy holiday cooking.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 package (10-14 oz) seasoned cube bread stuffing mix
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 pound pork sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean Original)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp poultry seasoning
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the chopped onion, celery, butter, chicken stock, black pepper, and poultry seasoning. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the celery and onions are softened.
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage, breaking it into small chunks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Place the seasoned bread stuffing mix in a large bowl. Add the cooked sausage and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the chicken stock mixture to the bread and sausage, stirring gently after each addition. Continue adding the liquid until the bread cubes are moist but not soggy. If needed, add a little milk to adjust the consistency.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 3-quart casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the stuffing is hot and the top is lightly browned.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 313 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Sausage & Herb Stuffing: A Timeless Holiday Tradition
When it comes to Thanksgiving or any festive holiday meal, no side dish garners more attention than a well-made stuffing. Among the many varieties, Sausage & Herb Stuffing holds a special place at the dinner table. With its rich, savory flavors and comforting texture, this dish has become a family favorite for generations. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to elevate any holiday meal make it a must-have for gatherings large and small.
A Brief History of Stuffing
The concept of stuffing dates back centuries, with evidence of similar dishes appearing as far back as ancient Rome. The earliest recorded stuffings were often mixtures of bread, nuts, herbs, and spices, used to fill poultry and other meats. Over time, these recipes evolved, and different cultures adapted stuffing to their own culinary traditions.
In the United States, stuffing (or dressing, depending on where you’re from) is closely associated with Thanksgiving. Originally, it was prepared by filling the cavity of a turkey, which helped keep the bird moist while imparting flavor to the bread and herb mixture. However, modern food safety practices have led many home cooks to bake stuffing separately in a casserole dish, allowing for a crisp, golden top while maintaining a moist and flavorful interior.
Why Sausage & Herb Stuffing is a Holiday Favorite
- Rich, Savory Flavor:
The addition of sausage takes traditional bread stuffing to a new level. The meat adds depth and richness, balancing perfectly with the earthy flavors of poultry seasoning, fresh herbs, and aromatic vegetables like onions and celery. - Texture Perfection:
One of the hallmarks of a great stuffing is the contrast between textures. This Sausage & Herb Stuffing achieves just that: soft, moist bread cubes that absorb the flavorful broth, paired with crispy edges and bits of browned sausage for added bite. - Customizable to Your Taste:
This stuffing recipe is incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different types of bread, from classic white bread to cornbread or sourdough, to achieve unique flavor profiles. Additionally, ingredients like dried cranberries, chopped apples, or toasted nuts can be added for a hint of sweetness or crunch. - Perfect for Make-Ahead Cooking:
Holiday meals can be hectic, but this stuffing recipe offers flexibility. You can prepare the components a day in advance—chop the vegetables, cook the sausage, and even assemble the entire dish—and refrigerate it overnight. On the big day, simply bake it while the turkey rests, giving you one less thing to worry about. - Crowd-Pleasing Appeal:
Whether you’re serving a traditional turkey dinner or branching out with a ham or roast, this stuffing pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Its hearty, savory flavors complement the rich, roasted meats typically served during the holidays.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Considerations
While stuffing is often considered a decadent side dish, this Sausage & Herb Stuffing can be part of a balanced holiday meal when enjoyed in moderation. Here are a few nutritional benefits and tips for making it a bit healthier:
- Protein Boost: The sausage provides a good source of protein, which can help keep you fuller for longer and support muscle health. For a leaner option, consider using turkey or chicken sausage.
- Whole Grains: For added fiber and nutrients, substitute whole-grain bread for some or all of the white bread in the recipe. This can help improve digestion and regulate blood sugar levels.
- Vegetable Goodness: Onions and celery are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Adding more vegetables, such as carrots, mushrooms, or spinach, can enhance the nutritional value.
- Lowering Sodium: While the recipe calls for seasoned bread cubes and sausage, both of which can be high in sodium, you can reduce the salt content by using low-sodium chicken broth and opting for reduced-sodium sausage.
Tips for the Perfect Sausage & Herb Stuffing
- Use Day-Old Bread:
Stale bread is ideal for stuffing because it absorbs the broth and flavors without becoming too mushy. If you don’t have stale bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread cubes in the oven for 10-15 minutes before assembling the dish. - Don’t Overmix:
Gently fold the ingredients together to maintain the structure of the bread cubes. Overmixing can lead to a dense, gummy texture. - Adjust the Moisture:
The key to perfect stuffing is striking the right balance of moisture. The bread cubes should be moist but not soggy. If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash of milk or more broth until you reach the desired consistency. - Go for the Golden Top:
Baking the stuffing uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes will create a beautiful golden-brown crust on top, adding a delightful contrast to the soft interior. - Consider the Cooking Method:
If oven space is limited, you can cook the stuffing in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours. This method keeps the stuffing warm and frees up the oven for other dishes.
Creative Variations to Try
While the classic Sausage & Herb Stuffing is a winner on its own, you can customize it with these variations:
- Sweet and Savory: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness that balances the savory sausage.
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, or chestnuts for added crunch and richness.
- Apple and Sausage: Sauté diced apples with the onions and celery for a sweet, fruity note that complements the sausage.
- Herb Explosion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to enhance the flavor profile.
- Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese on top before baking for a cheesy, golden crust.
Conclusion
Sausage & Herb Stuffing isn’t just a side dish—it’s a holiday essential. Its rich flavors, comforting texture, and endless adaptability make it a standout on any festive table. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving for a large family or enjoying a cozy holiday meal with close friends, this stuffing will be a guaranteed hit.
