This sausage and herb stuffing is a cozy dish full of wonderful flavors. With savory sausage and fresh herbs, it’s perfect for any gathering.
I love how easy it is to make this stuffing. Just mix everything together, and let the oven do the magic! It’s basically a hug in a bowl. 🤗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sausage: I recommend using Italian sausage for its rich flavor, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. If you prefer a meatless version, use plant-based sausage alternatives!
Bread: Day-old crusty white bread or sourdough gives great texture. However, you can use any kind of bread—whole wheat, ciabatta, or even bagels. Just make sure they are a bit stale to absorb the broth without getting mushy.
Onions and Celery: These two help build the base flavor. If you’re out of celery, chopped carrots can also add sweetness. For onions, shallots or green onions can be used in a pinch.
Herbs: Fresh herbs bring a burst of flavor! If you can’t find fresh, dried herbs work fine. Just use less—about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure My Stuffing Is Moist but Not Mushy?
Getting the right moisture level is crucial. Start with 2 cups of chicken broth and mix it into the bread and sausage mixture. If it looks a bit dry, gradually add more broth, about 1/4 cup at a time. You want the mixture to feel moist but not swimming in liquid.
Another helpful tip is to let the stuffing rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve without falling apart!
- Preheat your oven properly; a hot oven helps create a nice crust on top.
- Use a large enough baking dish to spread the stuffing evenly for uniform cooking.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking—it makes a difference!
How to Make Sausage And Herb Stuffing
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) sausage (Italian or breakfast sausage), casing removed
- 10 cups day-old bread cubes (from a crusty white bread or sourdough), about 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh sage, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (adjust for desired moistness)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time, for a total of around 1 hour. It’s a straightforward process that brings together hearty ingredients to create a deliciously comforting side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish or any equivalent casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage until it’s fully cooked, around 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a large mixing bowl, remembering to leave the drippings in the skillet.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and translucent. Stir in the fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage), salt, and pepper for another minute. This releases their wonderful aromas!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Next, transfer the sautéed vegetable and herb mix into the bowl with the cooked sausage. Add the bread cubes and gently toss everything together to combine.
5. Add Broth and Eggs:
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and the beaten eggs over the mixture. Stir gently to ensure the bread is evenly moistened. If the stuffing looks dry, you can add more broth, 1/4 cup at a time, until it reaches your desired moistness.
6. Season and Transfer:
Now, taste your mixture and tweak the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Once it’s just right, transfer the stuffing mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake:
Bake the stuffing uncovered for 35-40 minutes, watching for it to turn golden brown on top and heated through in the center.
8. Serve:
After taking it out of the oven, let the stuffing rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit more for easier serving.
This sausage and herb stuffing is a delightful dish that you’ll want to make for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Enjoy each flavorful bite!
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Stuffing Mix?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can substitute the bread cubes with a pre-packaged stuffing mix. Just follow the instructions on the package and adjust the broth quantity accordingly!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, dried herbs can be used instead. Just use about one-third of the amount (e.g., 1 teaspoon of dried thyme instead of 2 teaspoons fresh) since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Can I Prepare This Stuffing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day in advance! Simply complete steps 1-6, then cover and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftover Stuffing?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
