The warm, comforting embrace of Sausage and Herb Stuffing is the kind of dish that instantly makes any meal feel special. Blending savory sausage with aromatic fresh sage and thyme, alongside tender vegetables and rustic bread cubes, this stuffing manages to be both hearty and fragrant. Whether it’s the star of your holiday table or a cozy weeknight side, this recipe promises a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds without hesitation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sausage and Herb Stuffing lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the perfect combination of taste, texture, and aroma. From the savory sausage that adds richness to the fresh herbs that infuse an irresistible fragrance, every component works together to create a memorable dish.
- 1 lb sausage: Choose a flavorful sausage to bring savory depth and moisture to the stuffing.
- 6 cups cubed bread: Opt for slightly stale bread to absorb all the delicious flavors without turning mushy.
- 1 onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and foundation of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the sausage.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Enhances moisture and infuses the stuffing with savory goodness.
- Fresh sage and thyme: Use these fragrant herbs to elevate the dish with their classic stuffing aroma.
How to Make Sausage and Herb Stuffing
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Crumble and brown the sausage until it is cooked through and beautifully caramelized. This process not only locks in the rich, meaty flavor but also renders out some fat that will help carry other flavors in the stuffing. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Celery
Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté until both vegetables soften and start to develop a golden hue. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and creates the fragrant base that complements the sausage and herbs beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the cubed bread with the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and freshly chopped sage and thyme. Pour in the chicken broth gradually, tossing gently to combine. The broth helps to moisten the bread cubes, making sure each piece is infused with flavor but not soggy.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes until the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the stuffing is hot and bubbling around the edges. This final step melds all the flavors together and creates that irresistible crust on top.
How to Serve Sausage and Herb Stuffing
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few whole sage leaves on top adds a burst of color and freshness, making your Sausage and Herb Stuffing even more inviting. For an added touch, drizzle a little melted butter over the top just before serving to give it a glossy finish and extra richness.
Side Dishes
Pairing this stuffing with classic roasted turkey or chicken creates a timeless combination that fills the table with warmth. It also works beautifully alongside roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness with fresh, bright flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, try serving the Sausage and Herb Stuffing inside hollowed-out acorn squash or bell peppers for an eye-catching presentation. Alternatively, use it as a savory filling in stuffed mushrooms or even as a layer in a hearty casserole to surprise and delight your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, place any leftover stuffing in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying quick meals or repurposed dishes without losing any of that comforting flavor.
Freezing
Sausage and Herb Stuffing freezes wonderfully. Simply pack cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months, giving you the convenience of ready-made comfort at a moment’s notice.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the stuffing overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which usually takes about 20 minutes. This method keeps the texture just right, preserving that golden crispiness on top and tender, flavorful interior.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this stuffing?
Absolutely! You can choose spicy Italian, mild pork, or even turkey sausage depending on your preference. Each variety will change the flavor profile slightly but still deliver delicious results.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs, or can I use dried?
Fresh herbs give the best flavor and aroma, but if you only have dried sage and thyme, use about one-third of the quantity called for with fresh herbs. Just sprinkle them evenly so their flavor disperses well.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffing the day before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it will be cold.
How do I ensure the bread cubes don’t become too soggy?
Using slightly stale or day-old bread helps the cubes hold their shape and absorb moisture without turning mushy. Also, add the chicken broth gradually and mix gently to keep the perfect texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add nuts or mushrooms to replicate the savory depth sausage provides.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Herb Stuffing is truly a standout on any table, offering warmth, comfort, and unforgettable flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it become one of your new favorites to share with those you love. It’s a classic done right that delivers joy in every bite.
PrintSausage and Herb Stuffing
A savory and comforting Sausage and Herb Stuffing featuring browned sausage, sautéed onions and celery, fresh herbs, and cubed bread baked to golden perfection. This classic side dish is perfect for holiday meals or as a flavorful accompaniment to roasted meats.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Sausage and Meat
- 1 lb sausage
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
Other Ingredients
- 6 cups cubed bread
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Fresh sage and thyme, to taste
Instructions
- Brown Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and celery to the same skillet and sauté in the sausage drippings until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, browned sausage, sautéed onions and celery, fresh sage and thyme, and chicken broth. Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients and moisten the bread.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better texture in your stuffing.
- Fresh herbs like sage and thyme add the best flavor, but dried can be used if fresh are unavailable (use about 1 teaspoon each dried).
- For a moister stuffing, add a little more chicken broth as needed before baking.
- This stuffing can be made a day ahead and refrigerated before baking.