Cooked low and slow, this Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is a delightful blend of herbs, savory sausage, and hearty bread. Perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, this dish stands out with its rich flavors and comforting texture. It’s not just delicious; it’s also simple to prepare, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the work.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sausage and fresh herbs creates an irresistible taste that pairs well with any main dish.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy family dinner, this stuffing can adapt to various meal themes.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Serving up to 12 people, it’s ideal for large gatherings where everyone can enjoy a hearty serving.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making the Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing, gather your tools. Having everything in place will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking which enhances the flavors and textures of your stuffing.
- Large skillet: Essential for sautéing sausage and vegetables evenly before mixing them with bread.
- Mixing bowl: A convenient way to combine ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the slow cooker.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 12 cups dried bread cubes
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (sage flavored or original)
– 1 small onion (small diced)
– 4 stalks celery (small diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (fine chopped)
– 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (fine chopped)
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 2-3 cups chicken stock
– 2 large eggs (beaten)
– fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing
Step 1: Prepare Bread Cubes
If making your own bread cubes, dice a loaf of French bread into ½ inch cubes. Lay the cubes out on a sheet tray and let them sit out overnight. The bread will shrink overnight while it dries out; make sure you have about 14 cups of fresh cubed bread to make 12 cups of dried bread cubes.
Step 2: Sauté Sausage Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sausage, onion, celery, and garlic. Break up the sausage while stirring occasionally. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add Herbs and Seasonings
Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
Step 4: Combine in Slow Cooker
Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray. Measure out 12 cups of the dried bread cubes and add them to the slow cooker. Then add the sautéed sausage mixture on top.
Step 5: Mix Eggs and Stock
Whisk together 2 cups of chicken stock with the beaten eggs in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker over the other ingredients.
Step 6: Final Mixing
Mix everything well until combined. If the mixture looks dry, add more stock gradually until moistened but not soggy—up to an additional cup may be needed.
Step 7: Cover and Cook
Place a clean kitchen towel over the slow cooker before putting on the lid. This helps prevent excess moisture from getting into your stuffing. Cook on low for 4 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Step 8: Adjust Cooking Time
If after 4 hours your stuffing seems too wet, remove the lid and cook for an additional 30 minutes without it.
Step 9: Serve
Garnish with optional parsley before serving warm alongside your favorite holiday dishes!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing
Serving Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is an opportunity to enhance your holiday table. This delicious side dish pairs beautifully with a variety of mains and adds warmth to any meal.
With Roast Turkey
- Classic Pairing: Serve alongside a roasted turkey for a traditional Thanksgiving feast. The flavors complement each other perfectly.
As a Side for Pork
- Savory Match: Enjoy this stuffing with baked or grilled pork dishes. The sausage in the stuffing brings out the best in pork’s savory notes.
With Vegetarian Dishes
- Hearty Option: Pair with vegetarian options like stuffed bell peppers or roasted vegetables. The stuffing adds a rich, hearty taste that balances lighter dishes.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Elevate Presentation: Top your serving with fresh parsley or thyme. This adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall look and flavor.
As Leftovers in a Breakfast Casserole
- Breakfast Delight: Use leftover stuffing as a base for a breakfast casserole. Mix with eggs and cheese, then bake for a hearty morning meal.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing
To ensure your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing turns out great every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs moisture better than fresh bread, ensuring your stuffing has the perfect texture.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low for 4 hours allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Avoid rushing the process by cooking on high.
- Adjust Liquid as Needed: If your mixture looks dry before cooking, add more chicken stock gradually until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Mix Thoroughly: Make sure all ingredients are combined well before cooking. This ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the stuffing.
- Stir During Cooking: Stir every 30 minutes while it cooks to prevent sticking and burning on the sides.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to customize herbs according to your taste preferences. Sage, thyme, and rosemary work wonderfully together.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing
Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is versatile enough to pair with many delicious sides. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that complements stuffing well.
- Green Bean Casserole: A classic holiday dish that adds crunch and creaminess alongside your savory sausage stuffing.
- Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the stuffing.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots add a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory elements on your plate.
- Herb Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs bring extra texture and flavor to your meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Soft cornbread muffins are perfect for scooping up stuffing, adding another layer of flavor and comfort.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Charred Brussels sprouts provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with sausage stuffing.
- Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered noodles can be a great addition, offering a mild flavor that complements richer dishes perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Not drying the bread cubes properly: Fresh bread can make the stuffing soggy. If you’re using fresh bread, ensure it’s dried out overnight to achieve the right texture.
- Overcooking the stuffing: Cooking for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Monitor the cooking time closely, especially in the last hour.
- Skipping the seasoning: Insufficient seasoning can result in bland stuffing. Be generous with herbs and spices like thyme and rosemary for an aromatic flavor.
- Using too much liquid: Adding excessive chicken stock can make the stuffing overly wet. Start with 2 cups and add more gradually if needed to keep it moist but not soggy.
- Neglecting to stir regularly: Not stirring every 30 minutes can cause parts of the stuffing to burn. Stir thoroughly, especially at the edges, to ensure even cooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing
- Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stuffing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of chicken stock and stir until heated through. This keeps it moist while reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it the day before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it in your slow cooker.
What type of sausage is best for Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing?
Sage-flavored breakfast sausage enhances flavor beautifully, but original sausage works well too if you prefer something milder.
How do I customize my Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing?
Feel free to add fruits like cranberries or nuts like pecans for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs based on your taste preferences.
Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free bread works great as a substitute if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just ensure it’s dried out properly before use.
How do I know when my Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is done?
When cooked, it should be firm yet moist; if it appears too wet after 4 hours, remove the lid and cook for an additional 30 minutes without covering.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is a versatile side dish that adds comfort and flavor to any holiday meal. Its easy preparation makes it perfect for busy times, allowing you to focus on other dishes or enjoy time with family. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe according to your taste—adding nuts, fruits, or different herbs can create new variations that will impress your guests! Try making this delicious dish today!
Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing
Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is the ultimate side dish for holiday feasts or family gatherings, combining savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and hearty bread for a comforting experience. This dish is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare—simply sauté your ingredients, combine them in the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Perfectly cooked after four hours on low heat, this stuffing is versatile enough to complement roast turkey, pork dishes, or even vegetarian meals. Plus, it serves a crowd! Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner, this delightful stuffing will elevate your meal and leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves up to 12 people
Ingredients
- 12 cups dried bread cubes
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 pound breakfast sausage (sage flavored or original)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 4 stalks celery (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Fresh thyme and rosemary
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Chicken stock
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Prepare bread cubes by drying them overnight.
- Sauté sausage, onion, celery, and garlic in butter until cooked through.
- Mix in thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Combine dried bread cubes with the sautéed mixture in a slow cooker.
- Whisk together chicken stock and eggs; pour over the mixture.
- Stir well; add more stock if necessary to achieve desired moisture.
- Cover with a kitchen towel before placing the lid; cook on low for 4 hours.
- Stir every 30 minutes; adjust cooking time if needed.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in dried cranberries or chopped nuts. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free bread—just ensure it's properly dried.
