Sausage stuffing is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and flavor to any table, especially during the holiday season. But it’s also an easy and satisfying dish that can be made year-round, whether as a side for roast chicken or a standalone meal. With simple ingredients like bread, herbs, and flavorful sausage, this dish is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned home chefs. Making a delicious and easy sausage stuffing recipe doesn’t require complicated steps or fancy ingredients. In fact, you likely already have most of what you need in your pantry and fridge.
What Makes Sausage Stuffing So Popular?
A Perfect Balance of Flavor and Texture
Sausage adds a rich, savory taste that elevates traditional stuffing recipes. Combined with the crispiness of baked bread and the aromatic mix of onions, celery, and herbs, the result is a comforting, hearty side that complements almost any main dish.
Great for Make-Ahead Meals
One of the best things about sausage stuffing is how well it holds up when made ahead of time. You can prepare the mixture the night before, refrigerate it, and simply bake it the next day. It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
Ingredients for Easy Sausage Stuffing
This simple sausage stuffing recipe uses common pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 10 cups cubed bread (preferably day-old or slightly dried)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional, for extra binding)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
Cut your bread into ½-inch cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. Let them sit out overnight to dry, or toast them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 1015 minutes until slightly crisp. This prevents soggy stuffing and gives it that perfect texture.
2. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles with a spatula while cooking. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan for added flavor.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté the chopped onions and celery until softened, about 57 minutes. Add in sage, thyme, salt, and pepper to release their aroma. This mix brings depth to the stuffing’s flavor.
4. Combine All Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables. Pour in the broth gradually, mixing until the bread is moist but not soggy. Add the eggs if using, and stir until everything is well combined.
5. Bake the Stuffing
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 1520 minutes to get that golden, crispy top.
Tips for the Best Sausage Stuffing
Use the Right Bread
Day-old bread works best because it absorbs liquid better without turning mushy. White sandwich bread, sourdough, or even cornbread can be used, depending on your taste.
Choose Your Sausage Wisely
Use high-quality sausage with good seasoning. Pork sausage is traditional, but turkey or chicken sausage can be great for a lighter version. Spicy sausage adds a kick for those who enjoy heat.
Customize Your Add-Ins
Make your stuffing unique by adding:
- Chopped apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness
- Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a fresher aroma
- Mushrooms for an earthy, savory depth
Make It a Meal
While sausage stuffing is commonly served as a side, it can also be the main event. Serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner, especially if you add more protein-rich sausage and other hearty vegetables into the mix.
How to Store and Reheat Sausage Stuffing
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Freezing for Later
Sausage stuffing freezes well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed. It’s a great make-ahead dish for busy weeks.
Serving Suggestions
This easy sausage stuffing recipe pairs wonderfully with many main dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Roast turkey or chicken for a holiday spread
- Baked ham with honey glaze
- Grilled pork chops or roasted pork loin
- Vegetarian meals, if made with plant-based sausage
Variations of Sausage Stuffing
Southern-Style Sausage Cornbread Stuffing
Replace the bread with cornbread cubes, and use spicy sausage and bell peppers for a southern-inspired twist. It adds a touch of sweetness and extra texture.
Gluten-Free Option
Use your favorite gluten-free bread and make sure the sausage and broth are certified gluten-free. This version is just as tasty and suitable for people with dietary restrictions.
Low-Carb Sausage Stuffing
Substitute bread with chopped cauliflower or mushrooms for a lower-carb alternative. While the texture will differ, the sausage and herb flavors will still shine through.
If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful side dish, this easy sausage stuffing recipe is an excellent choice. It’s simple to prepare, can be made ahead of time, and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, sausage stuffing adds a touch of savory comfort to your menu. With crusty bread, rich sausage, and fragrant herbs, this classic dish remains a crowd favorite for good reason and now, it’s even easier to make in your own kitchen.