Gather around the table with a special treat that captures the heart and soul of Southern comfort food. This Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing is more than just a recipe; it’s a timeless dish that merges crispy cornbread with savory sausage and aromatic herbs. It’s the quintessential side dish that complements any meal, truly shining during the festive holiday season. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply a cozy Sunday dinner, indulge in the rich, hearty flavors that this stuffing offers.

There’s something incredibly satisfying about combining hearty ingredients like breakfast sausage, diced onions, and fresh herbs, all enveloped in the soft, buttery texture of cornbread. The crispy top adds delightful texture, while the inside remains tender and flavorsome. This stuffing not only pairs excellently with turkey and gravy but can also be a standalone comfort food that brings joy with every bite. You’ll find that this dish is perfect for impressing guests, yet simple enough for a family gathering at home.

With this easy-to-follow Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing recipe, you’ll discover the secret to ultimate flavor, making it a fail-proof side dish to bring to your next gathering. Let’s delve into why you’ll love this delightful recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing

Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of browned sausage and fresh herbs infuses this stuffing with a mouth-watering taste.
Comfort Food Vibes: Perfect for families and gatherings, it provides the warmth and satisfaction everyone craves during the holidays.
Easy Preparation: Simple steps make it possible even for beginner cooks to create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.
Versatile: Make it your own by customizing flavors and ingredients, allowing for endless creativity.
Perfect for Leftovers: It reheats wonderfully, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you embark on this culinary adventure, it’s essential to prep your kitchen for success. A clean, organized workspace can elevate the cooking experience and minimize fuss. Begin by gathering all your ingredients, and ensure they are fresh, especially the herbs and sausage. Having prepped components will make the assembly quicker and more enjoyable.

The key tools you’ll need include:

A large skillet for browning the sausage and vegetables.
A large bowl for mixing the stuffing ingredients.
A baking dish, specifically a 9×13-inch one, to house your stuffing.
Measuring cups and spoons to ensure proper ingredient amounts.
A whisk and spatula for mixing and folding the ingredients smoothly.

Once your tools are ready, you can start the flavorful journey of creating this stuffing!

Ingredients

1 pound breakfast sausage
1 large onion, finely diced
3 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups cubed cornbread
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, beaten
2 1/2 to 3 cups chicken broth
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Browning the sausage not only enhances its flavor but also allows the fats to release, which will later flavor the vegetables. Once fully cooked through, transfer the sausage into a large mixing bowl, reserving about a tablespoon of the rendered fat in the skillet.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and celery to the remaining sausage fat. Sauté these vegetables for around 8-10 minutes until they soften and become aromatic. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. The peaks of flavor will arise from the delicious melding of these aromatics. Once done, transfer them to the bowl with the sausage.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Next, add the cubed cornbread to the bowl filled with sausage and vegetables. Follow up by sprinkling in the fresh parsley, chopped sage, thyme leaves, poultry seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Gently toss everything together, ensuring each ingredient is well-distributed within the mixture for the best flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Binding Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth until combined. This eggy mixture is crucial as it binds everything while maintaining moisture in the stuffing. Pour this mixture over the cornbread stuffing blend along with the melted butter, and use a spatula to fold everything carefully until all components are well moistened. Consider adding more broth if you prefer a moist stuffing.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish and cover it with aluminum foil, which will help steam and cook the stuffing through. Bake for about 25 minutes covered, then uncover and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the top becomes deliciously golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the stuffing to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting time lets flavors meld and ensures it holds together better on the plate. For added presentation, consider garnishing with extra parsley or sage, elevating your dish’s visual appeal.

Variations

Protein: Swap the breakfast sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter option or use diced cooked chicken for a different protein profile.
Vegetables: Customize the stuffing by adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even roasted corn for an added twist.
Spices: Experiment with spices such as Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick or paprika for a smokier flavor. Add dried cranberries or apples for a hint of sweetness.

Cooking Notes

For best results, use day-old or oven-dried cornbread to prevent a soggy texture in the stuffing.
Taste your stuffing mixture before baking; sausage brands can vary significantly in saltiness and flavor, allowing you to adjust seasoning as needed.
This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings, just be sure to use a larger baking dish.
This stuffing freezes well; make-ahead and store it in a sealed container for up to a month.

Serving Suggestions

Pair it with a succulent roast turkey or glazed ham for a classic holiday meal.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a light dinner option.

Tips

Ensure your cornbread is completely cooled before cubing to avoid a mushy stuffing.
Feel free to add nuts like pecans for some crunch and additional flavor.
Experiment with fresh herbs for even more nuanced flavor; try dill or chives along with or instead of the sage and thyme.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 350
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs

Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffing a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it fresh before serving.

What type of cornbread should I use?

Homemade cornbread is best for flavor, but store-bought works. Just be sure it’s not too moist.

How can I adjust the spice level?

You can add more red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the mixture for extra heat, or keep it mild by eliminating spicy components.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Absolutely! Vegetable broth will work well to keep the recipe vegetarian-friendly and still flavorful.

Conclusion

This Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing encapsulates the heartwarming essence of Southern cuisine. It’s perfect for gathering around the dinner table and sharing stories with loved ones. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with flavors, aromas, and memories. Try this for your next holiday or family meal, and you’ll be greeted with smiles and compliments! Feel free to share your variations or tips in the comments below; we love hearing how you make your dishes unique!