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Easy Sausage Stuffing Recipe: The Best Thanksgiving Side Dish!

As the festive season approaches, the anticipation of a perfectly roasted turkey and a table laden with delicious sides begins to build. Among the myriad of side dishes, sausage stuffing holds a special place, elevating the Thanksgiving meal from ordinary to extraordinary. This easy sausage stuffing recipe, infused with flavour and texture, is sure to become a staple on your holiday table.

Ingredients

To create this delightful stuffing, you will need the following ingredients:

• 450g (1 lb) of quality sausages (pork or a mix of your favourites)
• 200g (about 7 oz) of fresh white bread, cut into cubes
• 100g (about 3.5 oz) of celery, finely chopped
• 100g (about 3.5 oz) of onion, finely chopped
• 50g (about 1.75 oz) of butter
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried sage
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• 250ml (1 cup) of chicken or vegetable stock
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method

1. Prepare the Sausages:
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large frying pan, heat the butter over medium heat. While it’s melting, remove the skin from the sausages and crumble the meat into small pieces. Add the sausage meat to the pan and sauté until browned, approximately 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. The combination of sausage and vegetables will form the flavourful base of your stuffing.

3. Combine with Bread:
In a large mixing bowl, add the bread cubes. Sprinkle in the dried sage, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Pour the sausage mixture over the bread and combine thoroughly so that the bread is evenly coated in the meat and vegetable mix.

4. Add Stock:
Gradually add the chicken or vegetable stock to the bowl, mixing gently until the stuffing is moist but not soggy. The aim is for the bread to absorb the flavours while maintaining some texture.

5. Bake the Stuffing:
Transfer the stuffing mixture into a greased baking dish. Cover with foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is crispy and golden brown.

6. Serve:
Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of colour. Serve the sausage stuffing alongside your turkey and other festive trimmings.

Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Sausages: The flavour of your stuffing largely depends on the sausages you choose. Look for high-quality sausages, preferably fresh and made with premium ingredients.

• Mix and Match: Feel free to add your favourite herbs, spices, or even dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a touch of sweetness.

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this stuffing a day in advance. Just assemble the mixture without baking, cover it well, and refrigerate. On the day of your feast, simply bake it as per the instructions.

• Leftovers Galore: Any leftovers can be repurposed into a delicious breakfast hash or enjoyed in a turkey sandwich!

Conclusion

This easy sausage stuffing recipe is not just a dish; it’s a comforting reminder of family gatherings and festive celebrations. With its perfect balance of flavours and textures, it makes an ideal companion to your Thanksgiving turkey. Give it a try, and watch as it quickly becomes a favourite part of your holiday traditions! Enjoy your cooking and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!