As I pulled the warm, golden-brown casserole out of the oven, a mouthwatering aroma filled my kitchen, instantly making my heart flutter with anticipation. This Sausage Stuffing is my go-to side dish for Thanksgiving, effortlessly blending moist herb bread with savory ground sausage and aromatic vegetables. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also serves as a comforting centerpiece on any holiday table, ensuring delighted guests return for seconds. The time-saving prep means you’ll have more moments to share with loved ones, rather than being tied to the stove. As you gather around the table, the irresistible crunch of the top layer paired with the flavorful filling promises to create lasting memories. Will you take the plunge and let this delightful sausage stuffing become your new holiday favorite?

Why is this Sausage Stuffing special?

Savory Satisfaction: This recipe combines the comforting flavors of ground sausage, buttery onions, and herby bread cubes, creating a side dish that’s bound to impress.

Effortless Preparation: With a straightforward method, you can whip up this stuffing in no time, allowing you to focus on other dishes, like Night Rigatoni Sausage for your Thanksgiving feast.

Versatile Option: Feel free to customize with nuts or dried fruits, or even create a vegetarian version by swapping sausage for mushrooms.

Mouthwatering Texture: The contrast between the crunchy top layer and the moist, flavorful filling turns each bite into a cozy experience.

A Family Tradition: This cherished recipe is often passed down through generations, making it a beloved staple at the holiday table, just like grandma used to make.

Sausage Stuffing Ingredients

For the Base
• Dry Bread Cubes – Provides structure and bulk; using seasoned flavored bread enhances the stuffing’s taste.
• Chicken Stock – Adds essential moisture and flavor; substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
• Butter – Enhances richness; try using olive oil for a dairy-free option.

For the Vegetables
• Onion (1 small, chopped) – Adds sweetness and aroma; shallots work great for a milder flavor.
• Celery (2 ribs, chopped) – Contributes a nice crunch; you can replace it with leeks for a similar texture.

For Seasoning
• Poultry Seasoning (1 tbsp) – Infuses traditional herb flavors; mixed Italian herbs can be used in a pinch.
• Black Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Delivers a touch of heat; feel free to adjust to taste or opt for white pepper for gentler spice.

For the Star Ingredient
• Pork Breakfast Sausage (1 lb) – This is the main flavor component; swap for turkey sausage to lighten things up.

Remember, with this delightful Sausage Stuffing, you’re creating a heartwarming addition to your Thanksgiving feast!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage Stuffing

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure your Sausage Stuffing cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients and have a greased 3-quart casserole dish ready for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion and 2 chopped celery ribs, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Then, pour in 2 cups of chicken stock, 1 tablespoon of poultry seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and simmer this mixture for another 10 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage
In a separate skillet, crumble and brown 1 pound of pork breakfast sausage over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently to break it into small pieces. Continue cooking until it’s no longer pink and begins to brown slightly. Once cooked, drain the excess fat, allowing the sausage to retain its delicious flavor.

Step 4: Combine Bread and Sausage
In a large mixing bowl, place your dry bread cubes. Add the cooked sausage to the bowl and stir to combine, ensuring the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the bread. This mixture will provide the heartiness that makes your Sausage Stuffing a comforting dish.

Step 5: Incorporate the Stock Mixture
Carefully pour the sautéed vegetable and stock mixture over the bread and sausage blend. Gently mix everything together until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. If needed, feel free to add a splash more chicken stock or even a bit of milk to achieve desired moisture levels.

Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Once well mixed, transfer the stuffing mixture into the prepared greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly with the back of a spatula. The even distribution will help it cook uniformly, giving you that delightful crunchy top and moist filling, so take your time with this step.

Step 7: Bake the Stuffing
Cover the casserole dish securely with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. This covered baking will trap moisture, ensuring the stuffing cooks through. After an hour, remove the foil to allow the top to crisp up beautifully for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
When golden brown on top and fragrant throughout, carefully remove the Sausage Stuffing from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving it hot as a side dish with your Thanksgiving meal. Enjoy the cozy flavors that will surely enhance your holiday gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Sausage Stuffing preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their Thanksgiving meal planning! You can safely assemble the stuffing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1 through 5, then transfer the mixture to your greased casserole dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating. This helps maintain its delicious moisture and flavor. On Thanksgiving day, just pull it out of the fridge, remove the cover, and bake in your preheated oven for about 1 hour (remember to uncover it for the last 15 minutes for that crispy top!). With this make-ahead option, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time creating cherished memories with your loved ones.

What to Serve with Sausage Stuffing

Savor the essence of Thanksgiving by creating a complete meal that warms the heart and tantalizes the taste buds, perfect for family gatherings.

Roast Turkey: The classic pairing! Juicy turkey enhances the stuffing’s savory flavors and completes the traditional Thanksgiving experience.
Gravy: A rich, homemade gravy drizzled over each serving elevates the stuffing’s flavor and adds a comforting touch.
Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory stuffing, balancing the meal beautifully.
Green Bean Almondine: The crunchy texture and bright flavors provide a lovely contrast to the heartiness of the stuffing, adding a vibrant touch to your plate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their sweet caramelization complements the stuffing perfectly, bringing warmth and color to your Thanksgiving spread.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a delightful creaminess that pairs beautifully with the crisp texture of the sausage stuffing.
Buttery Dinner Rolls: Fluffy and warm rolls allow you to soak up any leftover gravy, making each bite simply irresistible.
Pumpkin Pie: Complete the meal with a classic dessert! The spiced sweetness of pumpkin pie offers a cozy finish to your Thanksgiving feast.

Expert Tips for Sausage Stuffing

Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing the day before and refrigerate it overnight. Just pop it in the oven on Thanksgiving for a stress-free cooking experience.

Moisture Balance: Ensure your sausage stuffing is moist but not soggy. If it feels too dry, add a splash of chicken stock or milk to achieve the perfect texture.

Watch the Oven: To prevent burning, center your casserole dish in the oven and keep an eye on it. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality sausage for the best flavor in your sausage stuffing. Fresh herbs or seasoned bread can elevate the dish even further.

Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat while covered to maintain moisture and avoid dryness.

Sausage Stuffing Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful variations, making your Sausage Stuffing truly your own!

Vegetarian Version: Swap out sausage for cooked diced mushrooms and extra veggies like bell peppers for a savory, meat-free delight.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for a wonderful nutty texture, adding depth to each comforting bite.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples to add a touch of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory elements.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant, aromatic boost; they’ll elevate the dish to new flavor heights.
Heat it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to introduce a kick that warms the palate and sparks excitement.
Alternative Bread: Use cornbread or sourdough instead of traditional bread cubes for a unique twist on texture and taste. This adaptability ensures each batch brings something new!
Crockpot Capers: If you’re short on time, consider using a crockpot: combine ingredients and cook on low for 4-5 hours, allowing for effortless flavors to meld together.
Saucy Additions: Drizzle with a touch of balsamic vinegar or apple cider for an unexpected zing that rounds out the hearty flavors perfectly.

As you experiment, don’t forget to check out my Night Rigatoni Sausage for more hearty recipes that can complement your Thanksgiving feast!

How to Store and Freeze Sausage Stuffing

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your Sausage Stuffing delicious and fresh for a few meals after Thanksgiving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Make sure to label it so you can easily find it later!

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through and crisp on top.

Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing a day in advance, refrigerate, and simply bake on Thanksgiving day for a stress-free meal!

Sausage Stuffing Recipe FAQs

What type of bread should I use for the stuffing?
For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using dry bread cubes, preferably made from seasoned or herbed bread. This adds an additional layer of flavor to your sausage stuffing. If you don’t have specific stuffing bread on hand, you can use a mix of stale baguette, ciabatta, or any bread you enjoy.

How should I store my leftover sausage stuffing?
After your delicious holiday meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing to avoid trapping moisture, which could spoil it faster.

Can I freeze sausage stuffing?
Absolutely! You can freeze your sausage stuffing for up to 3 months. To do this, allow it to cool completely, then pack it tightly in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date for easy identification later!

How do I reheat frozen sausage stuffing?
To reheat, thaw the sausage stuffing overnight in the fridge. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the stuffing to a greased casserole dish. Cover it with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, removing the foil for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the top.

What can I use as a sausage substitute in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option, consider substituting the pork breakfast sausage with cooked diced mushrooms or turkey sausage. Both alternatives will still provide a satisfying flavor while meeting different dietary preferences.

How can I ensure my sausage stuffing isn’t too dry?
To avoid a dry stuffing, monitor the moisture level while mixing the ingredients. If you find that it seems too dry, gradually add a bit more chicken stock or even milk until the desired consistency is reached. The bread should be moist but not soggy for the perfect texture!