Name: Sausage Stuffing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound sourdough loaf (or gluten free bread of choice); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cups finely diced onion; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 3 stalks celery (chopped into small pieces); 10 oz brown mushrooms (cut in half and then sliced into small pieces); ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp pepper; 2 pounds Mild Italian Sausage (removed from casings); ⅓ cup melted butter; 3 eggs (whisked); 2 cups chicken stock; 3 tsp poultry seasoning

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 14 reviews

If you've ever wished for a comforting, savory dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and seconds, then this Sausage Stuffing Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a perfect medley of tender sourdough bread cubes, hearty Italian sausage, and a fragrant blend of veggies and spices that bake together into pure autumnal bliss. Whether it’s a holiday feast or just a cozy dinner, this stuffing strikes the ideal balance of juicy, flavorful, and satisfyingly textured—making it a timeless classic you’ll want to return to season after season.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows eleven white bowls of different sizes arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the top left is a white bowl filled with torn pieces of brown and white bread, to its right is a bowl filled with chopped brown and white mushrooms. Below the bread bowl is a bowl with finely chopped light green celery, next to it is a bowl with diced white onions. Below those bowls, in smaller white bowls, are peeled and minced garlic, black pepper, and mixed dry herbs. In the bottom row, there is a white bowl with orange melted butter, a pitcher with light brown broth, and a plate with five raw light pink sausages. The scene is well lit and the bowls are evenly spaced. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple yet play a crucial role in building the unique layers of flavor and texture in this Sausage Stuffing Recipe. From the rustic sourdough bread to the earthy mushrooms and the subtle warmth of poultry seasoning, each component complements the others beautifully.

1 pound sourdough loaf: Firm bread cubes provide the perfect structure to soak up all the savory juices without turning mushy.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity richness to sauté the vegetables to tender perfection.
2 cups finely diced onion: Gives a sweet and aromatic base that blends seamlessly with the sausage.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the stuffing with a gentle punch of warmth and depth.
3 stalks celery (chopped into small pieces): Offers a subtle crunch and fresh green flavor to balance the richness.
10 oz brown mushrooms (halved and sliced): Bring an earthy, meaty texture that enhances the stuffing’s heartiness.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
½ teaspoon pepper: Adds just enough heat to round out the savory profile.
2 pounds Mild Italian Sausage (removed from casings): The star protein binding flavors and providing incredible juiciness.
⅓ cup melted butter: Contributes a luscious richness that keeps every bite moist.
3 eggs (whisked): Help bind the stuffing together for the perfect sliceable texture.
2 cups chicken stock: Infuses the bread with savory goodness and keeps it tender without sogginess.
3 teaspoon poultry seasoning: Brings that classic, cozy blend of herbs that defines a beloved stuffing.

How to Make Sausage Stuffing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Start by cutting your sourdough loaf into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they're all roughly the same size for even toasting. Spread them out in a single layer across baking sheets and pop them into the oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Toasting for about 20 to 25 minutes not only dries the bread out perfectly but also creates a crisp exterior that will soak up the liquids without falling apart.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the bread toasts, heat olive oil in a large pot and add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped celery, and sliced brown mushrooms. Sprinkle in salt and pepper and sauté over medium-high heat for 8 to 10 minutes until the veggies soften and their flavors bloom. This step builds the aromatic foundation essential to this Sausage Stuffing Recipe.

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

Add the sausage meat to the pot, using a wooden spoon to break it into small, bite-sized pieces. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until the sausage is no longer pink and has released its savory juices. This step is key—it ensures the sausage is cooked through and well incorporated into the mix, unfolding its rich flavor throughout the stuffing.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Take your toasted bread cubes and stir them into the pot with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Then, pour in the melted butter, whisked eggs, and chicken stock. Finally, sprinkle the poultry seasoning over everything. Mix all these elements thoroughly, allowing the bread to absorb the buttery, herby, and juicy goodness—the magic behind that perfect moist texture of the stuffing.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and transfer your stuffing mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes, or until the top develops a beautiful golden brown crust. This final bake melds the flavors even more and gives you that irresistible crispy top that makes every bite an exciting contrast.

How to Serve Sausage Stuffing Recipe

The image shows a four-part grid with each square depicting a step of cooking. The top left has many small cubes of golden brown toasted bread spread on a large baking tray lined with white paper, all set on a white marbled surface. The top right shows a white round cooking pot filled with light green diced celery, light brown sliced mushrooms, and finely chopped white onions. In the bottom left, the same white pot holds the vegetables simmered together, becoming softer and mixed with some dark bits, showing a cooked texture. The bottom right shows cooked browned ground meat in the same white pot, with a wooden spoon resting on top inside the pot, all on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Present your Sausage Stuffing Recipe with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or thyme. These herbs add a burst of vibrant color and fresh aroma that elevates each serving, making the dish not only taste delicious but also look irresistible on your holiday table or family dinner spread.

Side Dishes

This stuffing pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes—from a perfectly roasted turkey or baked chicken breast to glazed carrots and creamy mashed potatoes. The savory richness and hearty texture of the stuffing balance beautifully against lighter vegetables and silky gravies, rounding out a satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fresh twist, try serving this stuffing inside hollowed-out acorn squash or bell peppers for individual portions that impress. You can also pack it into mini ramekins for a sophisticated side, or even use it as a filling for baked mushrooms or chicken breasts stuffed with this savory mix. This versatility makes the Sausage Stuffing Recipe a fantastic crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Sausage Stuffing Recipe leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the bread from drying out. The flavors often deepen overnight, making the next-day servings just as tasty—if not better!

Freezing

To enjoy this stuffing later, freeze it in a covered, freezer-safe dish before baking. Frozen sausage stuffing stays good for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or thawed stuffing in a 350-degree oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, warming for about 20 minutes. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes. Alternatively, microwave portions covered for quick, convenient enjoyment without sacrificing that comforting taste.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this Sausage Stuffing Recipe?

Absolutely! While sourdough adds wonderful texture and flavor, you can substitute with gluten-free bread or a hearty white or whole wheat loaf. The key is to use bread that holds up well when toasted and mixed with the moist ingredients.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

You can create a vegetarian version by skipping the sausage and adding extra mushrooms, nuts, or plant-based sausage alternatives. Use vegetable stock in place of chicken stock and keep the other ingredients to maintain that rich, satisfying flavor and texture.

Why is it important to toast the bread cubes before mixing?

Toasting dries out the bread and creates a firmer exterior, which is crucial for preventing the stuffing from becoming mushy. It also adds a delightful toasty flavor that enhances the overall taste of this Sausage Stuffing Recipe.

Can I prepare the stuffing the day before baking?

Yes! You can mix all the ingredients and store the unbaked stuffing in the refrigerator overnight. When you're ready, take it out about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed for delicious results.

What’s the best way to make this stuffing less greasy?

Opt for lean Italian sausage to reduce excess fat, and make sure to drain or blot any extra grease after cooking the sausage. You can also reduce the amount of butter slightly without sacrificing too much richness.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Stuffing Recipe is a heartwarming dish that brings both comfort and celebration to your table. With its perfect blend of crispy bread, savory sausage, and fragrant herbs, it’s more than just a side—it’s a testament to why stuffing remains a beloved culinary tradition. I encourage you to try it out and watch it become a staple in your home, delighting your family and friends with every bite.

Sausage Stuffing Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need