Irresistible OldFashioned Sausage Bread Stuffing Recipe

There’s something inherently cozy about the aroma of savory stuffing wafting through the house on a chilly day. When I think of this Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing with Sausage, it conjures up memories of family gatherings filled with laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the warm glow of candlelight dancing across the dining table. My grandmother had her secret recipe—a treasured family heirloom passed down like a beloved quilt. I remember sneaking bites while it was still in the oven, the buttery seasonings tempting me every step of the way. Over the years, I’ve made it my own, and it’s become a staple at every holiday dinner and cozy family gathering. What I love most about this stuffing is its simplicity and heartwarming flavor, which feels like a loving hug. Now, let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine this: a cold winter evening, and you’re coming back home after a long day. You walk into your kitchen, and the scent of this stuffing fills the air, instantly elevating your spirits. This recipe is worth trying not just for its delightful flavor but also for its ability to bring comfort and togetherness. Whether it’s tossed alongside a perfectly roasted turkey or served as a glorious side dish at a festive table, it tastes like something straight from a charming little bistro but made with the love that only home cooking can provide. Plus, it’s a great way to dress up any dinner, whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Tuesday night when you want to treat yourself to something special.

What It Tastes Like

Let me paint you a picture: the first bite of this stuffing is nothing short of magical. You sink your fork into a warm, fluffy mound dotted with golden-brown sausage and sautéed onions, the smell of herbs mingling with the warm bread. Each mouthful feels rich yet comforting, with a delicious balance of savory sausage and fragrant herbs. Picture it like that first warm sip of cocoa after trudging through the snow, or how you feel when you come home to your favorite dish. The textures play wonderfully—crisp on the outside and perfectly moist on the inside. A mere forkful will have you reminiscing about family dinners long after the last bite has been savored.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (about 1 pound), cut into cubes: This forms the base and gives the stuffing its body and texture.
• 1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice): Adds a hearty depth of flavor that rounds out the dish beautifully.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base.
• 2-3 ribs of celery, diced: Adds crunch and freshness—a lovely contrast to the sausage.
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the stuffing and adds a fresh note.
• 2 teaspoons of dried sage: A classic herb that truly defines stuffing.
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme: For a subtle earthiness.
• 4 cups of chicken broth: Moistens the bread and adds flavor depth.
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter: Because butter makes everything better, am I right?
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out the flavors.

Optional Additions

• Dried cranberries or raisins: For a hint of sweetness.
• Chopped apples: Adds a fresh and fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the sausage.
• Chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans): For a bit of crunch and richness.

Special Garnishes

• Extra chopped parsley: For a pop of color.
• Fresh sage leaves: For an aromatic touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A warm oven sets the stage for our stuffing to become perfectly golden and delicious.
2. Prepare the Bread Cubes: In a large bowl, combine your bread cubes and keep them ready. If you have day-old bread, that’s ideal! It will soak up all that flavorful broth without becoming mushy. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours beforehand.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. The sizzling sound? Pure music to your ears!
4. Add Aromatics: Once the sausage is browned, throw in the diced onion and celery. Cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should start to smell delicious. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic happens!
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage mixture to the bowl with the bread cubes. Also, mix in the chopped parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine.
6. Pour in Broth: Slowly drizzle the chicken broth over the stuffing mixture. This is where you’ll want to gently fold everything together. The bread should absorb the liquid nicely; if it still seems a bit dry, add more broth until it’s just moist.
7. Add Butter: Melt the butter and drizzle it over the stuffing, mixing it in. That little bit of richness makes a world of difference!
8. Bake: Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until it’s golden brown on top.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or sage leaves if desired, and get ready to feast!

Recipe Variations

You can personalize this stuffing in countless ways! Want a vegetarian twist? Swap the sausage for mushrooms or lentils. You can also try experimenting with different types of bread—think sourdough or even cornbread for something a little different. Got leftover roasted vegetables? Toss them in there for a delightful way to use what you have! Another fun idea is using different herbs like rosemary or basil, depending on your taste preferences or season.

Serving & Storage Tips

This stuffing is best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it back into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can always add a splash more broth if it seems a little dry upon reheating. And let’s not forget about those fabulous leftovers! The stuffing makes a delicious breakfast when mixed with some eggs and cheese for a hearty scramble, or use it as a filling for savory pancakes. It’s versatile and keeps on giving!

Helpful Tips

• Let it dry out: If your bread is too fresh, slice it and leave it out overnight to harden. This helps in absorbing the broth without getting too soggy.
• Don’t skip the herbs: Timing your herbs is crucial. If using fresh herbs, add them at the end to maintain their bright flavor.
• Taste as you go: Always taste and adjust seasoning during your cooking. It’s a great way to learn what flavors work for you.

Special Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need a few essentials. A good, sturdy skillet is vital for browning your sausage and sautéing your vegetables evenly. A large mixing bowl will help you combine everything without the mess. An oven-safe baking dish (preferably glass or ceramic) gives your stuffing the perfect crispy edges. And a spatula or wooden spoon? Well, that’s your trusty companion for mixing and folding in those ingredients!

FAQ

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! This stuffing freezes well. Ensure it’s in an airtight container, and you can enjoy it later. Just thaw and reheat it in the oven, adding a bit of broth to keep it moist.

What’s the best bread for stuffing?

I recommend using a sturdy bread like a country loaf or sourdough. You want something that can hold up to the broth without turning to mush.

How do I make gluten-free stuffing?

Use gluten-free bread, and you can follow the same recipe! Just be sure to check all other ingredients for gluten. Many good broth options are available.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Bread Stuffing with Sausage is not just a recipe; it’s an experience, a time capsule linking generations one delicious bite at a time. I love making this dish for friends and family, especially during the holidays—it brings everyone together, sparking conversations and creating warm memories around the table. I invite you to share your version or a cherished memory in the comments below; hearing how others enjoy their food stories truly warms my heart! So gather your loved ones, whip up this stuffing, and savor every moment—because good food and laughter make for the best recipes of all.

Irresistible OldFashioned Sausage Bread Stuffing Recipe

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Discover a timeless bread stuffing recipe with sausage that elevates your meals Perfect for holidays or cozy dinners savor this classic dish

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Ingredients

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1 loaf of crusty bread (about 1 pound), cut into cubes

1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)

1 medium onion, diced

2–3 ribs of celery, diced

1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped

2 teaspoons of dried sage

1 teaspoon of dried thyme

4 cups of chicken broth

1/2 cup of unsalted butter

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, combine your bread cubes and keep them ready.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and celery, and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine the sausage mixture with the bread cubes, chopped parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss gently.

Slowly drizzle the chicken broth over the mixture and fold together.

Melt the butter and drizzle it over the stuffing, mixing well.

Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Let it cool slightly before serving and garnish with parsley or sage if desired.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Side Dish
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 calories
• Sugar: 1 gram
• Fat: 20 grams
• Saturated Fat: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 28 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 12 grams