Traditional Stuffing with Sausage is a dish that makes every meal special. It’s a must-have on the Thanksgiving table but perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a comforting and flavorful side dish. If you’ve never tried making stuffing from scratch, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you every step of the way!
Why I Love This Recipe
My classic homemade stuffing is traditional in the best way possible. The flavors of sausage, herbs, and bread cubes come together beautifully, creating the perfect combination of savory and satisfying. After one bite, you’ll understand why this is my favorite recipe to make during the holidays.
I wanted to share this recipe because it holds a special place in my heart. It’s easy to prepare, loved by everyone, and makes any dinner feel festive. I’ve added tips to ensure success, so you can enjoy the same incredible flavors my family has enjoyed for years.
About Traditional Stuffing with Sausage
Traditional stuffing with sausage is the heart of many holiday dinners. Its roots go deep into classic cooking, where simple ingredients shine. This dish perfectly balances the richness of sausage with the comforting texture of seasoned bread. Growing up, my family always made this stuffing recipe during the holidays, and it remains a cherished tradition. Sharing it with you feels like passing on a family secret that will hopefully become part of your holiday celebrations too.
What Makes Traditional Stuffing with Sausage the Best
1. Flavorful Ingredients
This stuffing stands out for its mix of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and hearty bread cubes. The ingredients are straightforward but deliver an explosion of flavors.
2. Perfect Texture
The bread absorbs the flavorful broth, creating a stuffing that is soft inside and crisp on the edges. This balance of textures is what makes it irresistible.
3. Easy to Customize
You can adjust the herbs, type of sausage, or even add extras like nuts or dried fruits to make it your own.
4. Crowd-Pleaser
Everyone at the table will love this stuffing. It pairs well with turkey, ham, or even as a standalone dish.
Ingredients Needed for Traditional Stuffing with Sausage
- Bread Cubes: Use day-old bread for the best texture.
- Sausage: Italian sausage works wonderfully, but you can use your favorite.
- Vegetables: Onion and celery add a classic stuffing flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Helps create the soft, moist texture.
- Herbs: Sage, thyme, and parsley bring fresh, earthy flavors.
- Butter: Adds richness to the dish.
- Eggs: Helps bind the stuffing together.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
Pro Tip: Using fresh herbs enhances the flavor significantly.
How to Make Traditional Stuffing with Sausage
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Cut your bread into cubes and let it dry overnight. You can also toast them lightly in the oven if you’re short on time.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a large skillet, cook the sausage until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- Use the same skillet to sauté onions and celery in butter. Cook until soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and herbs.
Step 5: Add Broth and Eggs
- Pour chicken broth over the mixture until the bread is moist but not soggy. Mix in beaten eggs to bind the stuffing.
Step 6: Bake
- Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to crisp the top.
Success Tips for Traditional Stuffing with Sausage
- Use Stale Bread: Fresh bread can make the stuffing soggy.
- Season Generously: Sausage is flavorful, but additional salt and herbs elevate the dish.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix gently to avoid breaking the bread cubes.
- Adjust the Broth: Add broth gradually to achieve the perfect consistency.
Things to Avoid When Making Traditional Stuffing with Sausage
- Skipping the Drying Step
Bread must be dry to absorb the broth properly. - Overcooking the Sausage
Cook just until browned to retain moisture and flavor. - Making it Too Wet
Excess broth can result in mushy stuffing. - Forgetting to Taste
Always taste the mixture before baking to adjust the seasoning.
FAQs About Traditional Stuffing with Sausage
1. Can I make traditional stuffing with sausage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Assemble the stuffing and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
2. What type of bread is best for traditional stuffing with sausage?
Day-old French bread or sourdough works best due to its sturdy texture.
3. Can I freeze traditional stuffing with sausage?
Absolutely! Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
4. How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
5. Why is my traditional stuffing with sausage too dry?
You may not have added enough broth. Gradually add more until the bread is moist.
6. Can I add other ingredients to traditional stuffing with sausage?
Yes, nuts, dried cranberries, or apples make great additions.
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Traditional Stuffing with Sausage Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 Cups Bread Cubes Dried
- 500 gm Italian Sausage Cooked
- 1 Medium Onion Chopped
- 2 Celery Stalks Chopped
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 500 ml Chicken Broth
- 2 Eggs Beaten
- 1 tsp Dried Sage
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
Optional Toppings
- Fresh Parsley Chopped
- A Drizzle Of Gravy
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread dried bread cubes in a large bowl.
- Cook sausage in a skillet until browned, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and celery in butter until soft.
- Combine sausage, sautéed vegetables, and herbs with bread cubes.
- Gradually add chicken broth until bread is moist but not soggy.
- Stir in beaten eggs for binding.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes for a crispy top.