Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing

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Craving a side dish that delivers bold Southern flavor and cozy comfort in every bite? This Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing is exactly what your holiday table needs—though honestly, it deserves a place at the table all year round. It’s savory, slightly sweet, loaded with aromatic herbs, and packed with juicy crumbles of sausage that soak up every bit of buttery goodness.

This isn’t your average stuffing. The hearty texture of homemade cornbread gives it a rustic edge, while the browned sausage and sautéed vegetables weave in layers of flavor. Whether served alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or even as the main event with a dollop of gravy, this dish brings Southern charm to every forkful.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get that perfect balance of crispy edges and tender, flavorful insides, it all starts with prep. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Ideal for baking your cornbread. It promotes an even, golden crust that won’t get soggy during baking.
• Large Sauté Pan: For browning sausage and softening aromatics like celery and onion.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one large bowl to toss all the ingredients together before baking.
• Baking Dish: Choose a deep dish to hold all the goodness. Ceramic or glass works well for even baking.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: These tools are gentle on cornbread, preventing it from turning into mush while mixing.

Don’t underestimate the role each tool plays—that crusty edge from the cast iron, the evenly cooked sausage from your sauté pan, and a well-sized bowl to keep your mix even. Everything works together for one mouthwatering result.

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Ingredients for the Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing

• Cornbread: The heart of the stuffing. It brings a subtle sweetness and hearty texture that holds up beautifully.
• Ground Sausage: Adds a savory punch with a hint of spice, making the dish rich and satisfying.
• Celery: Adds crunch and brightness that balances the richness of the sausage and cornbread.
• Onion: A base flavor builder, it caramelizes slightly and boosts the overall savory profile.
• Fresh Sage: Brings that signature Southern herbaceous note that screams stuffing.
• Chicken Broth: Moistens the mixture and infuses every bite with deep, comforting flavor.
• Butter: Because no stuffing is complete without it. It coats everything in a luscious finish.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing

Step 1: Prep Your Cornbread Base

Bake your cornbread ahead of time if you’re making it from scratch. Let it cool completely, then cube or crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Dry it out slightly by leaving it out overnight or baking it at a low temperature for 15–20 minutes.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

In a large sauté pan, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Break it apart as it cooks for small, even crumbles. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Using the same pan, melt the butter and add diced onion and celery. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5–7 minutes. Add chopped fresh sage during the last minute of cooking to release its aroma.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cornbread, cooked sausage, and sautéed veggies. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, mixing gently to avoid breaking down the cornbread too much. You want it moist but not soggy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

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Serving and Storing This Southern Classic

Serve Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing warm, straight from the oven. It pairs beautifully with roasted poultry, baked pork chops, or even a bowl of collard greens. Garnish with a few whole sage leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for that final touch.

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also freeze portions for up to one month; just thaw and reheat when the craving hits.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought cornbread?

Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s not too sweet and that it’s a bit dried out so it holds its structure in the stuffing.

What kind of sausage works best?

Mild or spicy pork sausage works well, but feel free to use turkey sausage or even chicken sausage based on preference.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. You might consider adding mushrooms for a meaty texture.

How do I prevent soggy stuffing?

Make sure your cornbread is dried out and don’t overdo the broth. Mix until just moist—not soupy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble the stuffing the day before, refrigerate it, and then bake it just before serving.

What herbs can I use instead of sage?

Thyme or rosemary are great alternatives. They bring their own earthy notes to complement the stuffing.

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Want More Southern Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love the heartiness of this Sausage Southern Cornbread Stuffing, don’t miss the comforting depth of the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup — a perfect cozy companion.

The Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup offers another rustic and savory flavor profile to enjoy with crusty bread or even leftover stuffing.

For a side dish that turns heads, try the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe with extra butter and garlic, or get adventurous with California Spaghetti Salad for a refreshing twist at the table.

And if you’re looking for something on the indulgent side, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe brings creamy spice in every layered bite.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your side dish or holiday favorites board for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add a bit of heat? Did you try another herb combo? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

For more delicious updates, follow along on my Pinterest @LadyPlate where I share daily recipes, tips, and seasonal favorites.

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