Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

Cooked low and slow, this Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is a delightful combination of herbs, sausage, bread, and more, making it one of the best side dishes for any occasion. Perfect for holidays or family gatherings, this stuffing is not just flavorful but also easy to prepare. The slow cooker allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish you’ll want to enjoy time and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply combine ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you focus on other dishes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of herbs and sausage infuses each bite with robust flavor that will impress your guests.
• Versatile Side Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from Thanksgiving to casual family dinners.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or herbs based on what’s in season.
• Large Batch: This recipe serves 12, making it perfect for gatherings or meal prep for the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing, you’ll need a few essential tools. These items will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This tool makes cooking effortless by allowing flavors to develop over several hours without constant supervision.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and sausage evenly before combining with bread cubes, ensuring great flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for whisking eggs and stock together before adding them to the slow cooker, promoting even distribution.

Ingredients

Cooked low and slow this Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is combined with herbs, sausage, bread, and more to create one of the best Holiday side dishes ever!

For the Stuffing Base:

• 12 cups dried bread cubes
• ½ cup unsalted butter

For Flavor:

• 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

For Binding:

• 2-3 cups chicken stock
• 2 large eggs (beaten)

Garnish:

• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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 achieve 12 cups of dried bread cubes.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables and Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sausage, onion, celery, and garlic. Break up the sausage as it cooks. Stirring occasionally, cook until the sausage is no longer pink and the veggies are soft — about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Season Mixture

Add the thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker

Spray your slow cooker with cooking spray. Measure out 12 cups of dried bread cubes and add them to the slow cooker. Layer the sausage mixture on top.

Step 5: Bind Ingredients Together

Whisk together 2 cups of chicken stock with beaten eggs in a mixing bowl. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker over the other ingredients.

Step 6: Mix Well

Gently mix everything together until well combined. If needed, add more chicken stock gradually until just moistened — up to an additional cup.

Step 7: Cover & Cook

Place a clean kitchen towel over the slow cooker before placing the lid on top; this helps prevent excess moisture from seeping into the stuffing. Cook on low for 4 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.

Step 8: Final Touches

If after cooking for 4 hours the stuffing seems too wet, remove the lid and cook for an additional 30 minutes uncovered. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously prepared Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

Serving Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing can elevate any meal, especially during festive gatherings. This dish pairs wonderfully with various mains and sides, making it a versatile addition to your table.

Classic Pairings

• Roast Chicken: The savory flavors of the stuffing complement the juicy chicken perfectly.
• Turkey: A traditional favorite for holidays, turkey and stuffing are a match made in culinary heaven.

Creative Combinations

• Stuffed Peppers: Use the sausage stuffing as a filling for bell peppers for a colorful and tasty twist.
• Savory Waffles: Top waffles with the stuffing for a unique brunch option that surprises the palate.

Dressing Up Your Dish

• Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Gravy Drizzle: Serve with a side of gravy for those who want an extra layer of taste and moisture.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for brighter flavors. Fresh thyme and rosemary make a significant difference.
• Proper Bread Choice: Opt for sturdy bread like French or sourdough that holds up well when soaked in broth.
• Monitor Moisture Levels: Adjust the amount of chicken stock based on your preferred texture—aim for moist but not soggy stuffing.
• Stir Periodically: Don’t forget to stir every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning at the edges.
• Taste Test Before Serving: Always taste before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary to enhance flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

Adding complementary side dishes will enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting balance.
2. Green Bean Almondine: Crisp green beans sautéed with almonds add crunch and freshness.
3. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness cuts through the richness of the stuffing, providing a delightful contrast.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring earthy sweetness that pairs well with sausage flavors.
5. Buttered Corn: Simple buttered corn offers sweetness that complements savory dishes beautifully.
6. Cauliflower Gratin: A cheesy cauliflower bake adds creaminess and richness alongside the stuffing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes will help you achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing.

• Skipping the Bread Drying Process: Ensure your bread cubes are dried out overnight for the best texture. Fresh bread can lead to soggy stuffing.
• Not Breaking Up the Sausage Properly: Break the sausage into smaller pieces while cooking to ensure even distribution throughout the stuffing. This enhances flavor in every bite.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding too much chicken stock can make your stuffing overly wet. Start with 2 cups and adjust as needed for moisture without soaking the mixture.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on low for 4 hours is important for proper texture. Stir every 30 minutes to prevent sticking and burning.
• Neglecting Flavor Adjustments: Taste your stuffing before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary. Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can elevate the dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal taste and freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of chicken stock if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing?

Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is a savory side dish made with dried bread cubes, sausage, herbs, and broth, cooked slowly for rich flavors.

Can I customize my Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing?

Yes! You can add ingredients like chopped apples, nuts, or different herbs to personalize the flavor profile.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing?

It typically takes about 4 hours on low heat, with occasional stirring to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?

Certainly! Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it a perfect side dish for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it suitable for family gatherings or holiday feasts. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting addition to your meal!