Introduction to Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe
Ah, the holidays! A time filled with laughter, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. If you’re like me, you want to impress your loved ones without spending all day in the kitchen. That’s where my Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe comes in! This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a quick solution for those busy days when you want to whip up something special. With its savory flavors and comforting textures, it’s sure to become a staple at your holiday table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will make your gatherings even more memorable!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe
This Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe is a lifesaver for busy cooks like us! It’s not just simple to make; it’s bursting with flavor that will have your family asking for seconds. In just about an hour, you can create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with any holiday meal, making it a must-have for your festive gatherings!
Ingredients for Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Stale bread cubes: Use about 8 cups of stale bread, whether it’s white or whole grain. Stale bread is key for that perfect texture—fresh bread can turn mushy!
- Italian sausage: One pound of your choice of mild or spicy sausage adds a savory depth. Feel free to experiment with different flavors!
- Onion: A medium onion, chopped, brings sweetness and aroma. It’s the base of so many great dishes!
- Celery: Two stalks of chopped celery add crunch and freshness. It’s a classic stuffing ingredient that balances the richness of the sausage.
- Garlic: Three cloves of finely chopped garlic infuse the stuffing with a warm, inviting flavor. Who can resist the smell of garlic cooking?
- Unsalted butter: Half a cup (or one stick) of butter is essential for sautéing the veggies and adding richness. You can also use olive oil if you prefer!
- Fresh herbs: A tablespoon each of finely chopped fresh sage, thyme, and parsley brings a burst of flavor. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs work just fine—just use less!
- Chicken stock: Two cups of chicken stock help moisten the stuffing and add depth. You can substitute vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
- Salt and pepper: A half teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper enhance all the flavors. Adjust to your taste!
- Crushed red pepper flakes: This is optional, but a quarter teaspoon adds a nice kick if you like a bit of heat.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—making this delicious stuffing!
How to Make Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making this Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe is a breeze, and I promise it’ll fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious stuffing that’s perfect for any holiday gathering!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is crucial because a hot oven ensures that your stuffing bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color we all crave. While the oven warms up, you can get started on the next steps!
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your Italian sausage. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The key here is to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once it’s browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, but don’t toss that flavorful fat! We’ll use it to sauté our veggies, adding even more flavor to our Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Now, let’s melt half a cup of unsalted butter in the same skillet. Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. The smell of garlic wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible, isn’t it?
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, it’s time to bring everything together! Combine your stale bread cubes, the cooked sausage, and the sautéed onion and celery mixture. Then, sprinkle in the fresh herbs—sage, thyme, and parsley—along with the salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a little kick. Mix everything gently until well combined. This is where the magic happens, and you can already start to imagine how delicious it will be!
Step 5: Add Chicken Stock
Next, drizzle two cups of chicken stock over the mixture. This will help moisten the bread and bring all those flavors together. Stir gently until everything is well combined and the bread is nicely moistened. You want it to be moist but not soggy, so keep an eye on it!
Step 6: Bake the Stuffing
Now, it’s time to transfer your stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then cover it with aluminum foil. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This initial baking time helps the stuffing cook through without drying out.
Step 7: Crisp the Top
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. This is where the magic happens! Bake the stuffing for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy. You’ll want to keep an eye on it during this time because that crispy top is what makes this stuffing so irresistible!
Step 8: Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, allow the stuffing to cool slightly before serving. This will help it set a bit, making it easier to scoop out. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you see the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they dig into your Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe!
Tips for Success
- Use stale bread for the best texture—fresh bread can lead to mushy stuffing.
- Feel free to mix and match herbs based on what you have on hand.
- For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for mushrooms or a plant-based alternative.
- Don’t skip the foil during the first bake; it keeps the stuffing moist.
- Let the stuffing cool slightly before serving for easier scooping.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders, but any large pan will do.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: If you don’t have one, a similar-sized casserole dish will work just fine.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients.
- Aluminum foil: This helps keep the stuffing moist while baking.
Variations of Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe
- Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique flavor twist. Fresh herbs always elevate the dish!
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative for a delicious vegetarian stuffing.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the stuffing beautifully.
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet contrast to the savory sausage. It’s a flavor explosion!
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread cubes to make this stuffing suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Roasted Turkey: This stuffing is a perfect sidekick to a beautifully roasted turkey, soaking up all those delicious juices.
- Complement with Gravy: Drizzle some homemade gravy over the stuffing for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the savory stuffing beautifully.
- Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness on your holiday table.
FAQs about Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe
1. Can I make this Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, pop it in the oven and bake as directed. It’s a great way to save time on the big day!
2. What can I substitute for Italian sausage?
If you’re not a fan of sausage or want a lighter option, you can use sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. This will still give you that hearty texture and flavor without the meat. Plus, it makes for a delicious vegetarian stuffing!
3. How do I store leftovers from the Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave. Just add a splash of chicken stock or water to keep it moist while reheating!
4. Can I freeze the stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze this stuffing! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
5. What are some good side dishes to serve with this stuffing?
This Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a simple green salad. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes and gravy for a comforting holiday meal!
Final Thoughts
As the aroma of this Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe fills your kitchen, you’ll feel the warmth of the holidays wrapping around you like a cozy blanket. It’s more than just a side dish; it’s a way to create memories with family and friends gathered around the table. The joy of sharing a meal made with love is truly priceless. So, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a Sunday dinner, this stuffing will surely become a cherished tradition in your home. Enjoy every bite and the smiles that come with it!
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Easy Sausage Herb Stuffing Recipe for Perfect Holidays!
A savory and easy sausage herb stuffing recipe perfect for the holidays.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 cups stale bread cubes (white or whole grain)
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside, keeping the fat in the pan.
- Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the chopped onion and celery, sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- In a large bowl, combine stale bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed onion and celery, sage, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
- Drizzle chicken stock over the mixture and stir gently until well combined and the bread is moistened.
- Spoon the stuffing mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Can be made with either mild or spicy sausage based on preference.
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted.
- Ensure the bread is stale for the best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg