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Best Sausage and Herb Stuffing Casserole: Easy Make-Ahead Recipe

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A stress-free, make-ahead stuffing casserole that combines savory sausage, fresh herbs, and sturdy bread for a moist, flavorful side dish perfect for holidays or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 10 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (French baguette or sourdough recommended)
  • 1 pound pork breakfast sausage
  • 1/2 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°F. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and dry for 10 minutes, or leave out overnight.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary, leaving some for flavor.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onions and cook until translucent. Add garlic and fresh herbs in the last minute to release oils.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together beaten eggs, chicken broth, heavy cream, and black pepper.
  5. Add dried bread cubes to the bowl. Pour the egg mixture over the bread. Add the sausage and onion mixture. Gently toss to combine.
  6. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
  7. Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly, pressing down gently to remove air pockets.
  8. For make-ahead: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If baking immediately, let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  9. Preheat oven to 350°F. If chilled, let dish sit out for 30 minutes before baking.
  10. Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the structure to set.

Notes

Ensure bread is stale or dried out to prevent a soggy texture. If using turkey sausage, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage. The dish can be frozen unbaked; thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffing casserole, make-ahead stuffing, sausage stuffing, holiday side dish, easy stuffing recipe, herb stuffing, comfort food

Find it online: https://clunkcook.com/best-sausage-and-herb-stuffing-casserole-easy-make-ahead-recipe/