Why You’ll Love This Beef Sausage Cranberry Stuffing
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep for maximum flavor!
- Savory and Sweet Harmony: The perfect balance of meaty sausage and tangy cranberries.
- Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: A unique twist on a classic side dish that will impress your guests.
Tools You’ll Need
- Foil
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
Beef Sausage Cranberry Stuffing
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Description
This Beef Sausage Cranberry Stuffing combines savory and sweet flavors for a holiday dish that will be the star of your table. Juicy beef sausage, tart cranberries, and herbed bread cubes come together in perfect harmony, creating a stuffing that’s hearty, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sausage, casing removed
- 10 cups cubed bread (day-old or dried)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Toast the Bread Cubes
- Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet.
- Toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and dried out. Let cool.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the beef sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and fully cooked.
- Add the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage mixture, dried cranberries, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the broth gradually, stirring to moisten the bread without making it soggy.
- Add the beaten eggs and mix well to bind the stuffing together.
Step 5: Bake the Stuffing
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffing cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the broth better without becoming mushy.
- Customize the Herbs: Swap or add fresh parsley, oregano, or marjoram for a personal touch.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the stuffing the night before and bake just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
A: Yes, but fresh cranberries will be more tart. Consider adding a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor.
Q2: Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Replace the beef sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
Q3: Can I cook this inside a turkey?
A: Yes, but ensure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Conclusion: A Holiday Must-Have
This Beef Sausage Cranberry Stuffing brings bold flavors and a touch of elegance to any holiday meal. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for making memories around the table. Give it a try, and it might just become a new family tradition!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Enjoy the festive flavors of this stuffing, and don’t forget to share the recipe with loved ones!
