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Crispy Brown Butter Sage Stuffing with Sausage

crispy brown butter sage stuffing with sausage - featured image

A rustic, crunchy stuffing made with stale cornbread, savory Italian sausage, and nutty brown butter. This recipe prioritizes texture, ensuring a crisp exterior and tender interior for a memorable side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8–10 cups stale cornbread, cubed
  • 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1–2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the bread: Cube the cornbread and spread it on a baking sheet. Let it sit uncovered for 24 hours or bake at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes until dry to the touch.
  2. Cook the sausage and vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausage until browned, then drain excess grease leaving about a tablespoon. Add onions and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until soft. Stir in sage for 30 seconds and remove from heat.
  3. Brown the butter: Melt butter in a saucepan or skillet over medium heat. Swirl occasionally until it turns deep golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat immediately.
  4. Combine the mixture: In a large bowl, toss dried cornbread with the hot brown butter. Add the sausage/vegetable mixture, beaten eggs, and 1 cup of chicken broth. Toss until moist but not soupy, adding more broth if needed.
  5. Bake until crispy: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mixture to a cast-iron skillet or greased baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, then broil on high for 5-10 minutes until deeply golden and crispy. Rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure the cornbread is completely dry to achieve crispiness. Watch the butter closely to prevent burning. Let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. For leftovers, reheat in a skillet with butter to restore crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: stuffing, cornbread stuffing, brown butter, sage, sausage, crispy stuffing, Thanksgiving side dish, fall recipes