Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing with Sausage

Introduction

Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing with Sausage is a rich, flavorful, and comforting side dish that brings warmth and tradition to any holiday table. This recipe combines savory sausage, fresh herbs, aromatic vegetables, and soft bread cubes, creating a stuffing that’s moist, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, from tender bread to savory sausage and fragrant herbs.

Perfect for Thanksgiving feasts, holiday gatherings, or festive dinners, this stuffing elevates the meal by adding depth and heartiness. Whether served alongside roast turkey or enjoyed on its own, it’s a timeless dish that captures the essence of holiday cooking and the joy of sharing a comforting, homemade classic with family and friends.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it turns a simple side dish into a hearty, flavorful, and aromatic centerpiece of any Thanksgiving meal. The savory sausage blends beautifully with fresh herbs, onions, and celery, creating a stuffing that’s bursting with rich, comforting flavors. The soft, buttery bread cubes soak up all the juices, making each bite moist, tender, and deeply satisfying.

Another reason I adore this recipe is its ability to evoke holiday nostalgia. Thanksgiving stuffing is a classic tradition, and this version brings the perfect balance of flavors and textures that remind me of family gatherings, festive dinners, and warm, joyful celebrations.

I also love how versatile and easy to prepare it is. You can make it ahead of time, bake it in the oven, or stuff it inside your turkey for extra flavor. The combination of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and tender bread makes it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

his dish is a must-try because it perfectly combines savory sausage, fresh herbs, aromatic vegetables, and tender bread cubes to create a stuffing that’s flavorful, moist, and comforting. Every bite offers a delicious mix of textures and tastes, from the richness of the sausage to the fragrant herbs and soft, buttery bread.

It’s also a must-try because of its ability to elevate any holiday meal. Whether baked in a dish or stuffed inside a turkey, this stuffing enhances the flavors of the entire feast, adding depth, warmth, and heartiness to the table.

Another reason it stands out is its universally appealing flavor profile. The combination of sausage, herbs, and vegetables makes it a crowd-pleaser that delights both kids and adults, ensuring it will be a favorite at every gathering.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 10–12
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal

Cuisine

• Type: American (Holiday)
• Cooking Method: Sautéing + Baking
• Course: Side Dish

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 loaf day-old bread (about 14–16 cups), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)
• 2 1/2–3 cups chicken or turkey broth (low sodium)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Prep the Bread

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet.
2. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until dry but not browned. Cool and set aside.

Step 2 – Cook the Sausage

3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Step 3 – Sauté Vegetables

4. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onion and celery, sauté until softened (about 7 minutes).
5. Stir in garlic, parsley, sage, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute more. Transfer mixture to the sausage bowl.

Step 4 – Assemble the Stuffing

6. Add bread cubes to sausage mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Slowly pour in broth, mixing gently until bread is moistened (not soggy).
8. Stir in beaten eggs, season with salt and pepper.

Step 5 – Bake the Stuffing

9. Increase oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
10. Transfer stuffing to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil.
11. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the top is golden.

How to Serve

• Serve hot alongside roast turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce.
• Garnish with extra fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Additional Tips & Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Omit sausage and use vegetable broth.
• Add fruit: Diced apples, cranberries, or raisins add sweetness.
• Nutty twist: Add toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Moist vs. crispy: Use more broth for a softer stuffing, less for a crispier texture.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil

Conclusion

Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing with Sausage is a hearty, flavor-packed side that elevates any holiday table. With its savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and perfectly baked bread cubes, it’s comfort food at its finest.