Forget complicated side dishes that steal your precious time! This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe delivers big, comforting flavors without the fuss. Imagine perfectly seasoned sausage, aromatic herbs, and savory bread cubes, all baked to golden perfection.
It’s hearty, incredibly delicious, and surprisingly simple to whip up, even on your busiest weeknights. As a professional who thrives on 30-minute meals, I promise this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe will become a new go-to for effortless entertaining or a satisfying family dinner. Get ready for a dish that tastes like you spent hours, but actually takes minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe
- Unbeatable Flavor: Enjoy a robust blend of savory sausage, fragrant herbs, and perfectly toasted bread in every bite. This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser.
- Effortless Execution: Seriously simple steps mean you’re out of the kitchen faster. This isn’t your grandma’s all-day stuffing; it’s a modern, efficient Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Weeknight Friendly: Perfect for a special occasion or a quick, satisfying weeknight meal. You’ll love adding this easy Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe to your rotation.
- Minimal Cleanup: One pan, incredible results. That’s my kind of cooking for this fantastic Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Quality ingredients are the secret to this sensational Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe. Grab these essentials, and you’ll be on your way to a truly flavorful dish. Don’t skimp on fresh herbs for this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe; they make all the difference!
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lean Ground Pork Sausage | 1 lb | Choose mild or spicy, depending on your preference for this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe. |
| Day-Old Bread, cubed | 6 cups | Sourdough, challah, or French bread work beautifully. Stale bread absorbs liquid better. |
| Celery, diced | 1 cup | Adds a nice crunch and aromatic base. |
| Onion, diced | 1 cup | Sweet or yellow onion for savory depth. |
| Fresh Sage, chopped | 2 tbsp | Essential for that classic stuffing flavor in this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe. |
| Fresh Thyme, chopped | 1 tbsp | Complements the sage beautifully. |
| Chicken or Vegetable Broth | 1.5 – 2 cups | Low-sodium is always a smart choice. Adjust as needed for desired moisture. |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup | For sautéing and richness. |
| Large Eggs, lightly beaten | 2 | Helps bind the stuffing together. |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Or to taste. |
| Black Pepper | 1/2 tsp | Freshly ground is best. |
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
Flexibility is key for a busy lifestyle! This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe is incredibly adaptable. Here are some smart swaps and variations to make it your own, keeping things healthy and delicious.
- Lean Protein: Swap out pork sausage for lean turkey sausage or even crumbled plant-based sausage. This maintains flavor while offering a lighter option for your Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Bread Choices: Use whole wheat bread for added fiber. Gluten-free bread works perfectly too, ensuring everyone can enjoy this amazing Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Add Veggies: Boost nutrition by tossing in diced mushrooms, finely chopped kale, or spinach with your celery and onion. They wilt down beautifully into the Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Herb Power: Experiment with other fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different aromatic profile. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, just use about a third of the fresh herb quantity.
- Broth Boost: For extra richness, use a low-sodium chicken bone broth instead of regular broth. It adds a depth of flavor to the Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
To make your Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe even more exciting, consider trying out our Cranberry Turkey Stuffing Balls. They add a delightful twist and can easily complement your stuffing, making for a festive meal. Check it out here.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready for efficiency! This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe comes together quickly. Follow these clear steps for a perfect, golden-brown stuffing every time. Remember, prep is your best friend for a seamless cooking experience!
- Prep Your Bread: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your cubed day-old bread on a large baking sheet. Toast it for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp. This step is crucial for preventing soggy stuffing. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the lean ground pork sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Transfer the cooked sausage to a large mixing bowl. This ensures your Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe isn’t greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Return the skillet to medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the diced celery and onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the fresh sage and thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This aromatic base is key to an incredible Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables and herbs to the mixing bowl with the cooked sausage. Toss in the toasted bread cubes. Pour in 1.5 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, the lightly beaten eggs, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything until the bread is evenly moistened. If the mixture seems too dry, add the remaining 1/2 cup of broth a little at a time. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the stuffing dense. This careful combination makes a tender Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. You can cover it with foil for the first 20-25 minutes to ensure it stays moist, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the stuffing is heated through.
- Serve Hot: Remove the Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish!
Pro Tips for Success
Want to elevate your Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe from good to absolutely phenomenal? These pro tips will ensure a perfect outcome every single time, saving you time and hassle in the kitchen.
- Dry Your Bread: Don’t skip toasting the bread cubes! This prevents a mushy stuffing and allows them to soak up all the delicious broth and flavors. For best results, cube your bread the day before and leave it exposed to air overnight.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can compact the bread, leading to a dense and heavy stuffing. A light hand creates a fluffy Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Adjust Broth Slowly: Different breads absorb liquid differently. Add broth gradually until the bread is just moistened. You want it moist, but not soaking wet.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the stuffing mixture before baking. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Remember, flavors mellow slightly during baking, so a little extra seasoning can go a long way in this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
- Crispy Top: For an extra crispy top, bake the last 10-15 minutes at a slightly higher temperature (like 375°F/190°C) or even under the broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
For guaranteed success in your Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe, be sure to implement our pro tips. If you want more meal ideas that maintain the same level of deliciousness, try our Broccoli Cheddar Soup here.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Knowing how to store and reheat it properly means you can enjoy leftovers that taste just as good as the first serving.
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, cool the stuffing completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating (Oven): For best results, reheat in the oven. Place desired portion in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
- Reheating (Microwave): For a quick reheat, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot. Be aware the texture might be slightly softer than oven-reheated.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary, healthy sides. Here are some of my favorite effortless pairings that keep your plate balanced and delicious.
- Roasted Vegetables: A simple sheet pan of roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts adds color, nutrients, and easy cleanup. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast alongside your Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe during the last 20 minutes if space allows.
- Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the stuffing perfectly. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
- Lean Protein: While the stuffing has sausage, a lean roasted chicken breast or a pan-seared pork tenderloin can turn this into an even more substantial and balanced meal.
- Cranberry Sauce: A homemade or good quality store-bought cranberry sauce provides a sweet-tart contrast that brightens every bite of this savory Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe.
Pair your Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe with complementary sides for a balanced meal. For a hearty addition, check out our High Protein Chicken Taco Soup here.
FAQs
Got questions about this fabulous Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe? I’ve got answers to make your cooking experience even smoother!
Can I make this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe mixture (steps 1-4) a day in advance. Store it covered in the baking dish in the refrigerator. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What kind of sausage works best for this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe?
For this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe, a mild Italian sausage (removed from its casing) is a popular and delicious choice. However, feel free to use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a kick, or even a breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure it’s a good quality ground sausage that will release flavor into the stuffing.
Is this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, this Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe freezes beautifully! Once baked and completely cooled, you can freeze it in individual portions or as a whole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in airtight, freezer-safe containers.
It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
The process of making stuffing has evolved over centuries, showcasing regional flavors and ingredients that reflect diverse culinary traditions. One popular version features savory sausage mixed with fresh herbs and bread, creating a delicious side dish that complements many meals; learn more about its history in this comprehensive article.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Here’s a general nutritional breakdown for one serving of this delicious Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe. Please note that exact values will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 15g |
Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sausage and Herb Stuffing Recipe delivers big, comforting flavors without the fuss. Imagine perfectly seasoned sausage, aromatic herbs, and savory bread cubes, all baked to golden perfection. It’s hearty, incredibly delicious, and surprisingly simple to whip up, even on your busiest weeknights.
Ingredients
1 lb Lean Ground Pork Sausage
6 cups Day-Old Bread, cubed
1 cup Celery, diced
1 cup Onion, diced
2 tbsp Fresh Sage, chopped
1 tbsp Fresh Thyme, chopped
1.5 – 2 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth
1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
2 Large Eggs, lightly beate
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and toast the cubed bread for 10-15 minutes until golde
- Brown the sausage in a skillet and drain excess fat, then transfer to a mixing bowl
- Sauté celery and onion in butter until softened, then add sage and thyme
- Combine sausage, sautéed vegetables, toasted bread, broth, eggs, salt, and pepper in a bowl
- Transfer to a baking dish and cover with foil; bake for 20-25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes
Notes
Use leftover bread for better texture and don’t overmix.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: None specified
- Trans Fat: None specified
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg