Best Sausage Stuffing Recipe (Perfect for the Holidays)

The holidays are a time for gathering around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying great food. No holiday feast is complete without classic sausage stuffing. With just the right balance of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and perfectly toasted bread cubes, this dish is a fan favorite that comforts every gathering.

Whether you’re a seasoned host or preparing a holiday meal for the first time, this recipe for sausage stuffing is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. Packed with flavor and easy to make, it’s an essential side dish to complement your turkey, ham, or roast.

What’s in this guide?

• A step-by-step recipe for the ultimate sausage stuffing
• Tips for choosing the best ingredients
• Make-ahead and reheating instructions
• Variations to suit your family’s taste

Roll up your sleeves and get ready to create a holiday masterpiece!

Why This Sausage Stuffing Stands Out

Sausage stuffing is a tried-and-true holiday classic, but what makes this recipe exceptional?

• Flavor-packed sausage brings a rich, savory depth to the dish.
• Fresh aromatics like onions, celery, and herbs infuse every bite with vibrant, festive flavors.
• Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside: This recipe's expert combination of liquid and bread creates the perfect texture for stuffing.
• Customizable: Whether you love bold flavors or subtle notes, this recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences.

With these features, this dish is guaranteed to win over even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A great sausage stuffing starts with simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s your shopping list for the perfect batch:

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (454g) sausage (mild or spicy based on your preference)
• 8 cups cubed bread (day-old or stale bread works best; sourdough or baguettes are ideal)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups chicken or turkey stock
• 2 large eggs, beaten

Seasoning and Herbs

• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp sage (optional but highly recommended for a classic flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional additions include dried cranberries, chopped nuts, or even grated Parmesan for an extra kick of flavor.

Step-by-Step Sausage Stuffing Recipe

Follow this simple guide to make perfect sausage stuffing every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread your cubed bread in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is dry and lightly golden. Remove and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Use a slotted spoon to remove the browned sausage and place it in a bowl, leaving the drippings in the pan for added flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

To the same pan, add butter, diced onions, celery, and garlic. Cook over medium heat until softened and fragrant, approximately 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Add the fresh herbs and cook for an additional minute to release their aroma.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, the cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables. Toss gently to evenly distribute the ingredients.

Step 5: Add Liquid Mixture

Whisk together the chicken stock and beaten eggs in a separate bowl. Gradually pour the mixture over the bread, tossing as you go. The bread should be moist but not soggy, so adjust the amount of liquid as needed.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the stuffing mixture into a buttered 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.

Expert Tips for the Best Sausage Stuffing

• Use stale bread for maximum texture: Fresh bread can become too mushy. If you don’t have stale bread, toast your bread cubes as the recipe suggests.
• Don’t rush the liquid: Gradually adding the stock ensures the bread absorbs it evenly without oversaturating.
• Mix it gently: Toss your ingredients with care to avoid breaking the bread cubes.
• Taste as you go: If your sausage is salty, adjust the seasoning to avoid overly salty stuffing.
• Make it ahead: Prepare the stuffing a day before and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh on the day of your event for the best results.

Variations to Try

Looking to experiment? Here are some ways to customize your sausage stuffing to suit your family’s tastes:

1. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.
2. Vegetarian Stuffing: Skip the sausage and use hearty mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives.
3. Sweet & Savory: Add dried cranberries, diced apples, or pecans for a festive twist.
4. Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Serve and Savor

Pair this sausage stuffing with roast turkey, ham, or even a vegetarian main dish like stuffed squash. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables on the side creates a perfectly balanced holiday plate. Don’t forget to drizzle some rich turkey gravy over your stuffing for that extra savory touch!

Bring Your Holiday Feast to Life

There’s nothing like sharing a homemade meal with loved ones, and this sausage stuffing is sure to be a hit at your holiday table. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it may well steal the spotlight from the main course!

Looking for more tips to elevate your holiday cooking? Share your masterpiece with us on social media using #MyHolidayStuffing, or subscribe to our newsletter for more recipes straight to your inbox.