Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm dish of Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing on a chilly fall evening. I remember the first time I made this for a Thanksgiving gathering, the aroma filled my kitchen, drawing everyone in like a magnet. My friends and family couldn’t wait to dig in, and I felt a surge of pride as I watched them savor each bite. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a tradition that brings folks together around the table. Each ingredient tells a story, from the robust flavor of the andouille sausage to the fluffy cornbread stuffing. This dish has become a staple, and I know you’ll love it just as much as we do.

Key Ingredients for Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and the Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing is no exception. The hearty andouille sausage brings a punch of flavor, complemented by the softness of cornbread and a medley of vegetables. Together, they create a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

• 1 (12-ounce) package andouille sausages – A spicy and flavorful sausage that acts as the base of this stuffing, adding depth and richness.
• 1 (12-ounce) package breakfast-style bulk sausage – Adds a savory flavor that balances well with the andouille and enhances the dish’s overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Essential for sautéing vegetables, it adds a creamy texture and flavor to the stuffing.
• 1 large sweet onion, diced – Provides sweetness and a fragrant aroma when cooked, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 3 celery ribs, diced – Adds crunch and freshness, bringing a lovely texture contrast to the stuffing.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Brings sweetness and vibrant color, making the dish visually appealing.
• 1 cup chopped green onions – Offers a mild onion flavor with a fresh finish, brightening up the stuffing.
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme – A fragrant herb that adds an earthy flavor, tying all the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce – A little kick that elevates the flavors without overpowering the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried rubbed sage – An aromatic herb that complements the sausage beautifully.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
• 1 (12-ounce) bag dry corn bread stuffing mix – The heart of the dish, bringing texture and flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth – Necessary for moistening the stuffing and infusing it with flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into pieces – Added on top before baking to create a crispy golden crust.

Preparation Steps for Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing

Getting ready to make the Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing is a joyful experience. The combination of savory ingredients fills the air with mouthwatering scents that will have everyone gathering in the kitchen. Let’s dive into the preparation steps that lead to this delicious dish.

1. Start by heating a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the andouille sausages and the breakfast-style bulk sausage to the pan. Cook them for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. You’ll want to break up the bulk sausage with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring it crumbles nicely. The enticing smell of cooked sausage will start to fill your kitchen, letting you know you’re on the right path.
2. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and transfer it to a plate. Set it aside for now. Keep the grease in the skillet, as it will be essential for cooking the vegetables.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the now-greased pan along with the onions, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are softened. The onions should become translucent, and the vibrant colors of the veggies will brighten up your skillet.
4. Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the green onions, hot pepper sauce, thyme, and sage. This is where the magic happens! Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. You want to achieve a flavor balance that excites your palate.
5. Next, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together until combined. This step is crucial as it melds all the flavors, creating a wonderfully aromatic mixture.
6. Transfer the sausage mixture to a large bowl. Now, add the dry corn bread stuffing mix and season it further with more salt and pepper. Stir gently until the stuffing mix is evenly coated with the sausage and vegetable mixture.
7. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by generously buttering it. This will help prevent the stuffing from sticking and create a delicious crust.
8. Now it’s time to moisten the stuffing. Add enough chicken broth to the stuffing mix to ensure it is well moistened, ideally between 3/4 to 1 1/2 cups. Mix gently until everything is combined, ensuring every piece of stuffing mix is touched by the broth.
9. Pour the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Scatter pieces of butter on top to enrich the dish as it bakes.
10. Cover the baking dish with foil, making sure to butter the underside so it doesn’t stick to the stuffing. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. This initial bake allows the flavors to meld.
11. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen is filled with an irresistible aroma.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about the Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing is how easy it is to customize. You can make it your own with just a few tweaks. Here are some ideas to inspire your creative side:

• Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce, or incorporate diced jalapenos for an extra kick.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in additional veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
• Herb Variations: Try swapping out thyme and sage with other herbs such as rosemary or parsley to create a different flavor profile.
• Use Different Bread: Experiment with different types of stuffing mixes, such as sourdough or whole wheat, for unique flavors and textures.
• Stuffing the Bird: If you’re feeling adventurous, use this stuffing to fill your turkey before roasting for an amazing stuffed turkey experience.
• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage alternatives to create a delicious vegetarian version.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.

Perfect Matches for Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing

Serving the Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing is all about balance and creating an inviting table. Here are some perfect pairings to complement this dish:

• Roasted Vegetables: Pair it with a medley of seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots, brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes, for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich stuffing.
• Gravy: A rich gravy, whether homemade or store-bought, can enhance the flavors and add moisture to the stuffing.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This stuffing is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or potlucks, where everyone can enjoy a serving.
• Seasonal Occasions: It shines during the fall and winter months, making it ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive occasions.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing is a dish that brings comfort and warmth, ideal for sharing with loved ones. Its rich flavors and delightful textures make it a standout on any table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you might just find it becomes a cherished favorite in your home as well!

Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing

The ultimate comfort food, this Andouille Sausage Cornbread Stuffing is bursting with flavors and textures. It's a deliciously rich and hearty dish, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Experience the warmth and richness of this easy weeknight dinner. Try it tonight and create lasting memories!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 12-ounce package Andouille Sausage
• 1 12-ounce package Breakfast-style bulk sausage
• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 1 large, diced Sweet onion
• 3 ribs, diced Celery
• 1 diced Red bell pepper
• 1 cup, chopped Green onions
• 2 teaspoons, chopped Fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon Hot pepper sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dried rubbed sage
• to taste Salt
• to taste Pepper
• 1 12-ounce bag Corn bread stuffing mix
• 1.5 cups Chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons, cut into pieces Butter

Equipment

• Large Nonstick Skillet
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Method

 

1. Add all sausage to a large nonstick skillet and cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, breaking up bulk sausage with a wooden spoon. Using a slotted spoon, remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
2. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the pan with sausage grease and add onions, celery, and red peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in green onions, hot sauce, thyme, and sage. Season with salt and pepper. Add sausage back to skillet and stir to combine.
4. Transfer sausage mixture to a large bowl and stir in stuffing mix. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 13×9-inch baking dish. Add enough broth to stuffing mix to moisten well (3/4 to 1 1/2 cups). Transfer to baking dish and scatter butter pieces across top.
6. Cover with foil (butter the side that faces down) and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 30 more minutes.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the stuffing before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Pairing: This stuffing pairs perfectly with roasted meats and fresh salads.
• Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding different herbs or spices to customize it to your taste.
• Serving Temperature: Serve warm to enjoy the best flavors and textures.