Looking for a mouthwatering dish that will elevate your next family gathering? Dive into the comforting world of Smoked Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing! This delightful recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of sausage with the sweet, crumbly goodness of cornbread, creating a dish that's not only delicious but also perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 batch cornbread, crumbled
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon sage
- 1 tablespoon thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook sliced smoked sausage until lightly browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
- In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and celery in the sausage drippings until soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but not browned.
- Crumble the prepared cornbread into large mixing bowl. Ensure cornbread pieces are roughly bite-sized for even texture.
- Add the browned sausage, sautéed onions, and celery to the cornbread. Sprinkle dried sage and thyme over the mixture, gently folding to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Slowly pour chicken broth over the mixture, stirring carefully to moisten the cornbread without making it soggy. The mixture should be moist but not wet.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. Remove foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the top to become golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the stuffing to set and makes it easier to serve.
Tips
- Choose Quality Sausage: For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality smoked sausage. It will enhance the overall taste of your stuffing.
- Make Your Own Cornbread: If you have time, consider making homemade cornbread instead of using store-bought. The freshness will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and celery. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor base, so aim for soft and translucent vegetables without browning them.
- Moisture Control: When adding chicken broth, pour it gradually and stir gently. The goal is to achieve a moist stuffing without it becoming soggy.
- Crispy Topping: For a deliciously crispy top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. This will give your stuffing a lovely golden color.
- Let It Rest: Allow the stuffing to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.Enjoy this delightful dish, and watch it become a new favorite at your table!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
