Sausage & Herb Stuffing is a timeless holiday side dish known for its rich, savory combination of seasoned bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and perfectly browned sausage. This versatile recipe complements any festive meal and is a must-have for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, it brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 package (10–14 oz) seasoned bread stuffing mix
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 pound pork sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean Original)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare Stock:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine onion, celery, butter, chicken stock, black pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Cook Sausage:
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage, breaking it into small chunks.
- Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Place the seasoned bread stuffing mix in a large bowl.
- Add the cooked sausage and stir gently to combine.
- Add Liquid:
- Gradually mix the chicken stock mixture into the bread and sausage, stirring gently after each addition.
- If the bread cubes seem too dry, adjust the consistency with milk.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered 3-quart casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the stuffing is hot and the top is lightly browned.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and serve warm.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 313 kcal per serving
- Servings: 8 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
This hearty and aromatic stuffing will elevate your holiday feast, adding depth and comfort to your meal. Perfect for pairing with turkey, ham, or vegetarian mains, it’s a recipe you’ll cherish year after year.
Sausage & Herb Stuffing: A Holiday Tradition
Sausage & Herb Stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a staple of holiday traditions that has stood the test of time. This savory, aromatic dish is a crowd-pleaser, blending seasoned bread cubes, flavorful herbs, and rich sausage into a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Its versatility and nostalgic appeal make it a centerpiece at Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings, complementing a variety of main courses.
The Essence of Comfort and Flavor
Stuffing is a quintessential comfort food, and the Sausage & Herb variety elevates this classic dish to new heights. The combination of pork sausage, poultry seasoning, and aromatic vegetables like onions and celery creates a flavor profile that is simultaneously hearty and sophisticated. Each ingredient plays a vital role: the seasoned bread cubes absorb the savory liquids, while the sausage adds richness and a satisfying bite. The herbs, notably sage, thyme, and rosemary, lend the dish its distinctively warm and festive aroma.
A Versatile Addition to Any Holiday Table
One of the greatest strengths of Sausage & Herb Stuffing is its versatility. While it pairs beautifully with traditional holiday proteins like roast turkey or glazed ham, it can also be adapted for vegetarian diners by omitting the sausage and substituting vegetable stock. This adaptability ensures that everyone at the table can enjoy a dish that is both satisfying and festive.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Stuffing, or dressing as it’s sometimes called in Southern cuisine, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The practice of “stuffing” meats with flavorful mixtures of bread and herbs was common in ancient Roman cuisine and has evolved through various culinary traditions. In America, stuffing became synonymous with Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations, reflecting the nation’s melting-pot approach to food. Sausage & Herb Stuffing, in particular, highlights the influence of European flavors, where pork sausage and hearty breads are culinary staples.
The Art of Preparing Sausage & Herb Stuffing
Although this dish may seem indulgent, its preparation is surprisingly simple, making it an excellent choice for home cooks of all skill levels. The key is to balance the flavors and ensure the bread achieves the perfect texture: moist but not soggy, with a slightly crisp top for contrast. The preparation involves layering flavors—starting with sautéed onions and celery, then adding browned sausage, and finally blending everything with seasoned bread cubes and a well-seasoned stock.
The baking process is where the magic happens. As the dish cooks, the ingredients meld together, and the top layer achieves a golden-brown finish that is both visually appealing and deliciously crisp. The result is a dish that is greater than the sum of its parts, rich with layers of flavor and texture that delight the palate.
A Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages
Sausage & Herb Stuffing is a dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Children enjoy its savory richness and soft texture, while adults appreciate its depth of flavor and the nostalgic feelings it evokes. Its aroma alone—wafting from the oven and filling the house—can transport diners to holiday gatherings of years past, making it a true culinary memory-maker.
Tips for Personalization
While the recipe is straightforward, there are many ways to personalize it to suit individual preferences or dietary needs:
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness that contrasts with the savory sausage.
- Boost the Texture: Include chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Make It Spicy: Swap the traditional sausage for a spicier variety, such as Italian or chorizo, to add a kick.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh sage, rosemary, or parsley for a brighter, herbaceous flavor.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
Serving Suggestions
Sausage & Herb Stuffing pairs seamlessly with classic holiday dishes, from roasted turkey and cranberry sauce to buttery mashed potatoes and green beans. It can also be served as a standalone dish for brunch or a potluck, thanks to its hearty and satisfying nature.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This stuffing is ideal for holiday meal prep, as it can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion
Sausage & Herb Stuffing is a dish that embodies the essence of holiday cooking: warmth, tradition, and shared joy. Its rich, savory flavors and comforting textures make it a must-have for festive gatherings, whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or a mix of both. Easy to prepare yet impressive on the table, it’s a recipe that holds a special place in the hearts of those who enjoy it.
As you gather around the table this holiday season, let Sausage & Herb Stuffing remind you of the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or a cozy dinner, this stuffing is sure to bring smiles and second helpings, ensuring that it remains a cherished part of your holiday traditions for years to come.
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Sausage & Herb Stuffing
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description
Sausage & Herb Stuffing is a timeless holiday side dish known for its rich, savory combination of seasoned bread cubes, aromatic herbs, and perfectly browned sausage. This versatile recipe complements any festive meal and is a must-have for Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts. Easy to prepare and utterly satisfying, it brings warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 package (10-14 oz) seasoned bread stuffing mix
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 pound pork sausage (e.g., Jimmy Dean Original)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Stock:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, combine onion, celery, butter, chicken stock, black pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Cook Sausage:
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage, breaking it into small chunks.
- Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Place the seasoned bread stuffing mix in a large bowl.
- Add the cooked sausage and stir gently to combine.
- Add Liquid:
- Gradually mix the chicken stock mixture into the bread and sausage, stirring gently after each addition.
- If the bread cubes seem too dry, adjust the consistency with milk.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered 3-quart casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the stuffing is hot and the top is lightly browned.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour