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Savory Herb-Infused Sausage Stuffing with Crispy Bits

Savory Herb-Infused Sausage Stuffing with Crispy Bits


  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)

Description

Savory Herb-Infused Sausage Stuffing with Crispy Bits is a flavorful and texturally delightful side dish made with juicy Italian sausage, fresh rosemary, sage, thyme, and toasted stale bread cubes. This comforting stuffing features a perfect balance of tender and crispy textures, enhanced with butter and chicken broth, ideal for holidays, family dinners or any occasion where a rich, aromatic side is desired.


Ingredients

Scale

Meats & Aromatics

  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 2 tablespoons butter (plus extra for dotting)

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Base & Liquids

  • 6 cups stale bread cubes (preferably rustic white or sourdough)
  • 2 to 2 ½ cups warm chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread Cubes: Cut stale bread into even cubes, then toast them lightly in the oven until golden and crisp to ensure they soak up flavors without becoming soggy.
  2. Cook the Sausage and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbly. Remove the sausage and set aside. Using the same skillet, sauté diced onion and celery in butter until softened and fragrant.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables, then stir in fresh chopped rosemary, sage, and thyme. Transfer this mixture to a large bowl containing the toasted bread cubes.
  4. Add Broth and Seasonings: Gradually pour warm chicken broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently until it is moistened but not soggy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Spread the stuffing evenly in a buttered casserole dish. Dot the top with additional butter to promote crispiness. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy around the edges.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread to ensure it absorbs flavors without becoming mushy.
  • Add chicken broth gradually to avoid oversaturating the stuffing.
  • Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor intensity.
  • Brown sausage properly to develop deep savory notes.
  • Dotting the baking stuffing with butter creates a golden crispy crust.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: sausage stuffing, herb stuffing, holiday side dish, crispy stuffing, savory stuffing, gluten-free stuffing, stuffing recipe, sausage and herb stuffing