When you're planning your next holiday meal, consider how sausage dressing can enhance your feast. You might want to start with the Classic Southern Sausage Dressing, which brings a traditional flair, or perhaps try the comforting Cornbread Sausage Dressing for a twist. If you're in the mood for something unique, the Savory Herb and Apple Dressing offers an intriguing blend of flavors. But that's just the beginning; you'll want to investigate what the Spicy Italian Sausage Stuffing and Mushroom and Sausage Bake can bring to your table. Curious about how these recipes can transform your gathering?
Classic Southern Sausage Dressing
Classic Southern Sausage Dressing is a beloved staple in many Southern households, especially during the holiday season. This savory dish combines the rich flavors of sausage with the comforting texture of bread dressing, making it a perfect side for turkey, ham, or even as a standalone delight. With its aromatic herbs and spices, this dressing is sure to impress your family and friends at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound breakfast sausage
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 8 cups cubed cornbread (or stale bread)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the breakfast sausage until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the drippings. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, sage, thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
In a large bowl, combine the cubed cornbread, sausage mixture, chicken broth, beaten eggs, and parsley. Mix gently until the bread is well coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavors, consider using homemade cornbread or day-old bread for a better texture.
If you prefer a bit more moisture, add additional chicken broth until your desired consistency is reached.
For a unique twist, try incorporating other ingredients such as chopped apples, cranberries, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Finally, allow the dressing to cool for a few minutes before serving; this will help it set and make it easier to scoop.
Enjoy your classic Southern sausage dressing!
Savory Herb and Apple Dressing
Savory Herb and Apple Dressing is a delightful combination of savory sausage, fresh herbs, and sweet apples, making it a perfect accompaniment for roasted meats or a hearty addition to your holiday table. This dish brings together the warm flavors of sage and thyme with the sweetness of apples, creating a comforting and festive dressing that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
It's simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your gathering without the stress of last-minute cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 4 cups cubed bread (preferably a day or two old)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
To prepare the Savory Herb and Apple Dressing, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through.
Then, add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced apples, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread and the sausage mixture, and pour the chicken broth over it. Gently mix until the bread is moistened. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
When making this dressing, consider using a variety of bread for added texture and flavor; sourdough or whole grain can give a delightful twist. Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your preference or what you have on hand.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty alternative. Additionally, this dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator; just reheat it covered in the oven before serving to guarantee it stays moist.
Spicy Italian Sausage Stuffing
Spicy Italian Sausage Stuffing is a flavorful twist on traditional stuffing that's perfect for any holiday gathering or family dinner. The combination of savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and a medley of vegetables creates a rich and hearty filling that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed on its own.
This stuffing isn't only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 8 cups cubed day-old bread (French or Italian)
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the spicy Italian sausage until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion, celery, and bell peppers, sautéing until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
In a large bowl, combine the sausage mixture with the cubed bread, broth, and beaten eggs, mixing until all the bread is well coated and moistened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Extra Tips:
For a more complex flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the stuffing mixture.
You can also customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of spicy sausage or red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
If you prefer a drier stuffing, reduce the amount of broth, or if you like it moister, feel free to add a splash more.
This stuffing can be made a day in advance; just refrigerate after mixing and bake it fresh on the day you serve it.
Enjoy your delicious Spicy Italian Sausage Stuffing!
Cornbread Sausage Dressing
Cornbread sausage dressing is a delightful and hearty side dish that brings a comforting flavor to any meal, especially during the holidays. This recipe combines the sweetness of cornbread with the savory notes of sausage, herbs, and spices, creating a perfect accompaniment to turkey, chicken, or any festive feast.
With a bit of preparation, you'll have a delicious dressing that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound sausage (pork or turkey)
- 4 cups cornbread, crumbled
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Remove the sausage from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, add the chopped celery and onion, cooking until softened.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, beaten eggs, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
Pour the melted butter over the top and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.
Extra Tips:
For an added depth of flavor, consider using homemade cornbread or adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary to the mix.
You can also customize the dressing by incorporating additional ingredients like chopped apples, nuts, or dried cranberries for a unique twist.
If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can mix in some cream or sour cream along with the chicken broth.
Be sure to check the seasoning before baking, as the flavor can vary based on the sausage used.
Enjoy your cornbread sausage dressing as a comforting side that's sure to impress your guests!
Mushroom and Sausage Bake
Mushroom and sausage bake is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines savory sausage with earthy mushrooms, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This dish is ideal as a side for a holiday feast or as a main course for a cozy family dinner.
The combination of ingredients melds beautifully in the oven, resulting in a golden, bubbling bake that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
To prepare the mushroom and sausage bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're tender.
In a large bowl, combine the sausage mixture with breadcrumbs, chicken broth, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
When making mushroom and sausage bake, feel free to customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of heavy cream or sour cream to the mixture before baking.
This dish can also be prepared ahead of time; simply refrigerate the assembled bake and pop it in the oven when you're ready to serve. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!