Name: Savory Sausage Stuffing with Cranberries You’ll Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 large boule or 2 baguettes (Choose rustic country or sourdough for the best texture.); 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided (Use more for greasing the baking dish.); 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (Shallots make a great substitution for a milder flavor.); 4 stalks celery, thinly sliced (Fennel can be used for a unique twist.); 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped (Add more for a stronger flavor boost.); 1 Tbsp chopped fresh sage (Dried herbs can be substituted (1 tsp).); 2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary (Can also be replaced with dried.); 2 tsp fresh thyme (Dried thyme is a suitable alternative (1 tsp).); freshly ground black pepper (Adjust to your taste preference.); 1 lb Italian sausages, casings removed (Consider swapping with chicken apple or andouille for a different flavor.); 1/2 cup dried cranberries (Raisins or chopped apricots could be used as alternatives.); 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth (Vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.); 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, plus more for serving (Adds freshness and color to your final dish.)

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There’s something comforting about the thought of family gathered around the table, laughter mingling with the smell of a delicious home-cooked feast. When it comes to holiday dinners, nothing steals the spotlight quite like a generously stuffed dish of sausage stuffing, merging rich, savory Italian sausage with the delightful sweetness of dried cranberries. Picture golden-hued bread infused with herbs and spices, perfectly crispy on the top, yet soft and moist inside – it’s a texture that invites second helpings.

This classic sausage stuffing isn’t just a side dish; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, making every meal feel festive. And the best part? You can prepare it ahead of time, transforming your holiday hustle into effortless enjoyment. So, if you’ve grown weary of fast food monotony and long for a comforting homemade touch, let’s dive into a recipe that promises to bring smiles and full bellies to your next gathering.

Why is Sausage Stuffing so special?

Comforting and filling, this sausage stuffing delivers an irresistible home-cooked flavor that evokes treasured family memories. Versatile enough for any gathering, you can easily customize it with different sausage types or bread choices. Make-ahead friendly, it saves you time on busy holidays, letting you enjoy the festivities. Crispy topping, soft interior—this stuffing is a texture lover’s dream. Perfect as a side or stand-alone dish, it brings warmth and joy to the table!

Sausage Stuffing Ingredients

Note: Gather these ingredients to create a scrumptious sausage stuffing that’s sure to impress your family and friends!

For the Base

Large boule or 2 baguettes – Provides the perfect structure; choose rustic country or sourdough for the best texture.
Unsalted butter (6 Tbsp, divided) – Adds richness and flavor; use more for greasing the baking dish.

For the Vegetables

Medium yellow onion (1, chopped) – Offers sweetness and depth; shallots make a great substitution for a milder flavor.
Celery (4 stalks, thinly sliced) – Brings crunch and aroma; fennel can be used for a unique twist.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely chopped) – Infuses savory depth; add more for a stronger flavor boost.

For Flavorings

Chopped fresh sage (1 Tbsp) – Provides warmth and fragrance; dried herbs can be substituted (1 tsp).
Chopped fresh rosemary (2 tsp) – Enhances your stuffing with aromatic notes; can also be replaced with dried.
Fresh thyme (2 tsp) – Brightens the dish; dried thyme is a suitable alternative (1 tsp).
Freshly ground black pepper – Adds spice; feel free to adjust to your taste preference.

For the Sausage & Add-Ins

Italian sausages (1 lb, casings removed) – The main protein source, lending richness; consider swapping with chicken apple or andouille for a different flavor.
Dried cranberries (1/2 cup) – Balances the savory elements with sweetness; raisins or chopped apricots could be used as alternatives.

For Moisture

Low-sodium chicken broth (1 1/2 cups) – Moistens the stuffing; vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version.
Chopped fresh parsley (1 Tbsp, plus more for serving) – Adds freshness and color to your final dish.

Now that you’ve gathered all the essentials, let’s move on to crafting this hearty and satisfying sausage stuffing that will surely become a family favorite!

How to Make Sausage Stuffing

Preheat your oven to 395°F. Generously grease a baking dish with some of the unsalted butter, setting the stage for your delightful stuffing.
Toast the cubed stale bread by spreading it out on a baking sheet and placing it in the oven at 200°F for about 20 minutes. You’re looking for it to be dried but not browned—this will help maintain the texture!
Sauté the vegetables in a large skillet by melting the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced celery, and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes will do!
Combine herbs and sausage! Add the chopped fresh sage, rosemary, and thyme to the skillet, stirring in the Italian sausages. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, mixing in the dried cranberries for a lovely burst of sweetness.
Mix the bread with the skillet mixture in a large bowl. Gradually pour in the chicken broth until the mixture is moist but not soggy. This delicious layer of flavors needs to be just right!
Transfer the stuffing to your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, then uncover for the last 10 minutes until it’s golden brown and heated through.

Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Classic Sausage Stuffing?

Creating a memorable meal is easy when you have the right side dishes to complement your stuffing masterpiece.

Roast Turkey: Juicy turkey with its savory drippings elevates the flavors of the stuffing, marrying the two perfectly for a festive feast.
Green Bean Casserole: This creamy, crunchy favorite adds a delightful contrast to the rich sausage stuffing while offering a touch of warmth and nostalgia.
Cranberry Sauce: The sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce brightens the dish, balancing the savory sausage and creating a harmonious celebration of flavors.
Herbed Gravy: Pouring warm herbed gravy over both turkey and stuffing unites all elements of the meal, enriching every bite with deep, comforting flavors.
Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, smooth mashed potatoes provide a gentle contrast to the texture of the stuffing, making each mouthful a delicious experience.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts add texture and a hint of bitterness, elevating the meal to new heights.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs offer a savory pop and an interesting alternative that pairs wonderfully with your stuffing.
Warm Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls serve as the perfect vehicle for soaking up gravy or extra stuffing—simple, yet utterly satisfying.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm glass of spiced apple cider provides a delightful contrast—the sweetness cutting through the savory depth of the meal.
Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with classic pumpkin pie, whose warm spices will perfectly echo the seasonality of the stuffing.

Expert Tips for Sausage Stuffing

Bread Choice Matters: Use stale bread for the best texture; drying it out prevents sogginess and ensures a delightful crunch in your sausage stuffing.
Get Creative with Sausage: Mix different sausage types for a personalized flavor profile; consider spicy chorizo or sweet apple sausage for a unique twist!
Adjust Moisture Wisely: Add chicken broth gradually until moist but not soggy; too much liquid can turn your stuffing into a mushy dish, so balance is key.
Crispy or Soft Topping: Cover with foil for a softer stuffing; removing it during the last 10 minutes of baking allows for that coveted golden, crispy top.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep your stuffing a day ahead and store in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven before your gathering for a hassle-free side!

How to Store and Freeze Sausage Stuffing

Room Temperature: Store leftover sausage stuffing at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking. After that, refrigerate promptly to prevent spoilage.

Fridge: Keep sausage stuffing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy on top for best results.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the stuffing in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Reheating: To enjoy your sausage stuffing again, bake it at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, covered with foil, then remove the foil for the last 10 minutes.

Make Ahead Options

These savory sausage stuffing bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the bread cubes up to 3 days in advance by toasting and storing them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and dry. Additionally, the sausage and vegetable mixture can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. Simply assemble everything together before serving by mixing the sausage mixture with the bread and adding chicken broth. When you’re ready, transfer the stuffing to the greased baking dish and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll have a warm, festive dish with minimal effort on busy days!

Sausage Stuffing Variations

Embrace the joy of customizing your sausage stuffing to make it uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter to maintain richness without dairy, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious dish.
A dairy-free stuffing can still be rich and satisfying! This simple swap helps accommodate dietary preferences.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free bread or even quinoa for a healthy twist; it will still hold together well.
Even with these alternatives, the flavor remains just as comforting. Your guests will be none the wiser!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate hot sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of warmth.
This brings a delightful heat that enhances the overall flavor profile, perfect for those who love a little extra zest!
Fruitful Burst: Mix in diced apples or pears in place of cranberries for a refreshing sweetness.
These fruits not only add moisture but also a unique flavor twist that complements the savory sausage beautifully.
Herb-Heavy: Add a variety of fresh herbs, like thyme, tarragon, or oregano, for a fragrant burst of flavor.
A herb-forward stuffing explodes with freshness and elevates the traditional recipe into a gourmet experience!
Nuts & Seeds: Fold in some roughly chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
This twist brings a wonderful texture that balances the soft bread and savory sausage in each bite.
Vegetarian Delight: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty, plant-based version.
Packed with umami flavor, this variation still fills the heart and soul, making it a wonderful alternative for non-meat eaters.
Cheesy Goodness: Stir in some shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for an extra gooey texture.
Oozing cheese throughout the stuffing creates a comfort food dream, inviting everyone to dig in!

Sausage Stuffing Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best bread for my sausage stuffing?
Absolutely! For the best texture, choose a large boule or two baguettes that are a day or two old, as stale bread works best. Aim for rustic country or sourdough varieties, as they provide a wonderful base and absorb flavors beautifully. You can also toast fresh bread at a low temperature (around 200°F) for about 20 minutes to dry it out, making it easier to incorporate into your stuffing.

How should I store leftover sausage stuffing?
The more the merrier! Leftover sausage stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Be sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing it to ensure freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until heated through and crispy on top.

Can I freeze sausage stuffing? If so, how?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze sausage stuffing for up to 2 months. After cooking, let the stuffing cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, covered with foil, removing the foil during the last 10 minutes for a nice crispy top.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for sausage stuffing?
If your stuffing turns out too soggy, it may have absorbed too much broth. Next time, add the broth gradually until it’s moist but not soaked. Conversely, if it’s too dry, you can add a little broth or butter while reheating to reintroduce moisture. For even baking, ensure that the oven is preheated and the stuffing is evenly spread in the baking dish.

Can I use different types of sausage in my stuffing?
Very! You can customize your sausage stuffing experience by mixing different types of sausage; consider using spicy chorizo for a kick, or a mild chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just be sure to remove the casings, as you’ll want to ensure your stuffing has that beautiful, savory sausage flavor throughout.

Is this recipe safe for my pets?
While your family may love this sausage stuffing, it’s not suitable for pets due to the ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always keep special dietary needs in mind and opt for pet-safe treats if you’re looking to share some love with your furry friends.