Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the mild Italian sausage for other varieties such as spicy Italian sausage or breakfast sausage. Each type will give the stuffing a slightly different flavor profile, so feel free to adjust it based on your preferences.

How do I make this sausage stuffing gluten-free?

To make this sausage stuffing gluten-free, simply substitute the bread stuffing mix with a gluten-free version. There are many great gluten-free bread stuffing mixes available at most grocery stores, or you can make your own using gluten-free bread.

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sausage stuffing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until it’s time to bake, then cover the dish and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

Easy Sausage Stuffing: A Flavorful Thanksgiving Favorite

Description

This easy sausage stuffing recipe combines savory Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and tangy dried cranberries, creating a flavorful side dish perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering. It’s quick to make, and with a few simple ingredients, you can elevate a store-bought stuffing mix into something truly homemade.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground mild Italian sausage
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
2 teaspoons minced fresh sage
2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme
¾ cup dried cranberries
2–½ cups chicken stock
1 (12 oz) bag herbed stuffing mix

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×9 or 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick spray. Set aside.
In a large high-sided skillet, add Italian sausage and cook on medium heat for about 5 minutes to release some of the fat from the sausage.
Add the diced onion, celery, rosemary, sage, and thyme. Stir to combine and cook until the sausage is no longer pink and the vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
Add the dried cranberries and chicken stock. Continue cooking over medium heat until the stock is warmed through.
Turn off the heat and stir in the dry stuffing mix. Combine well and spoon into the prepared pan.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.

Notes

If you prefer a spicier stuffing, swap in hot Italian sausage for the mild variety.
If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried rosemary, sage, and thyme or substitute with poultry seasoning.
If you want a crispier texture, use a larger 9×13 pan to spread the stuffing in a thinner layer.
Dried cherries are a great alternative to cranberries for a sweeter bite.
You can prepare the stuffing up to 24 hours ahead and bake it just before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 266 kcal
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 526mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg