Why You’ll Love This Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing Recipe
If you’re looking for a stuffing recipe that elevates your holiday meals, you’ll love this Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing.
It’s got a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a standout side dish. The crusty sourdough bread adds a satisfying crunch, while the savory sausage infuses every bite with rich, hearty goodness.
Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking? Simply irresistible!
This stuffing pairs beautifully with turkey, chicken, or pork, making it versatile for any occasion. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple for every holiday gathering!
Ingredients of Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing
When it comes to whipping up a delicious stuffing for your holiday feast, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For this Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing, you’ll want to gather some staple items that not only complement each other but also create that cozy, home-cooked aroma that fills your kitchen.
Imagine the warm scent of herbs and sausage wafting through the air as you prepare this dish, making your guests’ mouths water before they’ve even taken a bite. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to craft this delightful stuffing.
Ingredients:
- 1 large loaf of sourdough bread, with a hard crust, dried and cubed
- 1 (16 ounce) package of Jimmy Dean sausage, sage flavor, browned and crumbled
- 4 stalks of celery, diced (feel free to adjust if you’re not a celery fan)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 (14 ounce) can of chicken broth
- Rubbed sage, to taste
- Salt & pepper, but remember to go easy on the salt since the sausage and broth are already packed with flavor
Now, let’s talk about a few considerations regarding these ingredients. First up, the sourdough bread is key here. It’s got that lovely crust that adds texture, but if you can’t find a loaf that’s a little stale, don’t sweat it.
You can always toast fresh bread in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out a bit. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t turn into croutons.
And about the sausage – I know Jimmy Dean is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with your favorite sausage or even a spicy variant if you’re feeling adventurous.
As for the herbs, the rubbed sage is what gives this stuffing its signature flavor, but if you have fresh sage on hand, go ahead and chop some up for an extra burst of freshness.
Just remember, it’s all about personal preference!
How to Make Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing
When it comes to making the Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing, the first step is to gather all your ingredients. You’ll need that 1 large loaf of sourdough bread, which should be dried and cubed – you know, the kind that’s been sitting on your counter for a few days, looking all crusty and just begging to be transformed into something delicious.
If your bread is fresh, no worries. Just pop it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out a bit; just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t turn into a kitchen disaster.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the bread cubes with the crumbled, browned sausage (that’s 1 package of Jimmy Dean sausage, sage flavor, for those keeping score), diced celery (4 stalks unless you’re not a fan), and a large diced onion.
The aroma of those ingredients coming together is nothing short of magical, and you might find yourself wishing you could just dive right in. Once everything is well mixed, it’s time to add the chicken broth. You’ll want to start with about half of that 14-ounce can, drizzling it over the mixture and giving it a gentle stir.
The key is to make sure the stuffing is moist but not soggy. If it looks a little dry, go ahead and add more broth, but remember: nobody likes a soggy stuffing, so take it easy.
Now, if you’re cooking this stuffing with a turkey, simply spoon it around the bird and let it roast together, covered with foil if it starts to brown too much.
But if you’re making it as a standalone dish, you’ll want to dot the top with a few pats of butter (because, let’s be honest, butter makes everything better) before popping it in the oven at 375°F.
Bake for about 30 to 45 minutes or until that lovely golden-brown color shows up, and your kitchen starts to smell like a cozy holiday haven. Just be careful not to burn yourself as you sneak in a taste before serving—trust me, it’s hard to resist.
Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic flavors of the Simple Sausage Sourdough Stuffing, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
For a vegetarian option, swap the sausage for mushrooms or a plant-based sausage. If you want a bit of sweetness, add diced apples or dried cranberries.
For a spicier kick, try using chorizo instead of sage sausage. You can also mix in different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with nuts or different bread types to make it your own! Enjoy the creativity!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your sausage sourdough stuffing turns out perfectly, I recommend prepping your ingredients in advance.
Chop your veggies and cube the bread the day before, so you’re ready to go when it’s time to assemble.
Taste as you mix; adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you like a bit more crunch, consider adding some toasted nuts or apples for a sweet touch.
Remember, the stuffing should be moist but not soggy, so add the broth gradually.
Finally, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container; they reheat beautifully for a tasty snack later!