Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

Cooked low and slow, this Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is a delightful blend of herbs, sausage, bread, and more. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners. The slow cooker method allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory side dish that complements any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply set it and forget it! The slow cooker does all the work while you focus on other dishes.
• Flavor-Packed: Infused with herbs and sausage, this stuffing bursts with savory goodness in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or a comforting weeknight dinner.
• Perfect Texture: The slow cooking process ensures the stuffing is moist yet holds its shape perfectly.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves 12, making it great for larger gatherings or meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for even cooking and keeps your stuffing warm until ready to serve.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and browning sausage to enhance flavor before adding them to the slow cooker.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing, gather the following ingredients:

Bread Base

• 12 cups dried bread cubes

Flavorful Additions

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 pound breakfast sausage (sage flavored or original)
• 1 small onion (small diced)
• 4 stalks celery (small diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Herbs & Spices

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (fine chopped)
• 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary (fine chopped)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Moisture & Binding Ingredients

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

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

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 make 12 cups of dried bread cubes.

Step 2: Cook Sausage Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat:
1. Melt the butter.
2. Add the sausage, onion, celery, and garlic.
3. Break up the sausage while stirring occasionally.
4. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and the veggies are soft, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Season Mixture

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

Step 4: Assemble in Slow Cooker

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

Step 5: Add Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together 2 cups of chicken stock with beaten eggs.
2. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker over the bread and sausage layers.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Mix everything well until combined. If the mixture looks dry, add more stock gradually until moistened but not soggy.

Step 7: Cover & Cook

1. Place a clean kitchen towel over the cooker before placing the lid on top; this prevents excess moisture from getting into the stuffing.
2. Cook on low for 4 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 8: Final Adjustments

After 4 hours, if your stuffing seems wet:
– Remove the lid and cook for an additional 30 minutes uncovered.

Step 9: Serve

Garnish with optional parsley and serve hot as part of your meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Its rich flavors and hearty texture make it a perfect side for various occasions, especially during holidays. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

As a Classic Side Dish

• Pair with roasted turkey or chicken for a traditional holiday feast.
• Serve alongside beef roast for a comforting family dinner.

With Seasonal Vegetables

• Accompany with sautéed green beans or Brussels sprouts to add freshness.
• Offer with glazed carrots for a pop of color and sweetness.

In Casseroles

• Use as a base layer in casseroles for added flavor and texture.
• Top with cheese and bake until golden for a delicious twist.

Stuffed in Peppers

• Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with stuffing for a fun presentation.
• Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is golden brown.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing can enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some tips to make it even better:

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
• Toast bread cubes: Lightly toast the bread cubes before adding them to the slow cooker for extra crunch.
• Adjust liquid levels: Start with 2 cups of stock, then gradually add more if necessary to reach the desired moisture.
• Stir often: Stir every 30 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking throughout.
• Let it rest: Allow the stuffing to sit for a few minutes after cooking, which helps it firm up before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

Pairing your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting combination.
2. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness balances the richness of the stuffing beautifully.
3. Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots provide a lovely contrast in flavors and colors on your plate.
4. Creamed Spinach: A rich, creamy spinach dish adds depth and nutrition to your holiday spread.
5. Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of seasonal root vegetables brings warmth and heartiness to your meal.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Bite-sized mushrooms filled with savory mixtures can be an elegant appetizer or side dish.
7. Coleslaw: A light, crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the heavy stuffing.
8. Apple Sauce: Sweet apple sauce is a classic pairing that complements savory dishes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Fresh Bread: Fresh bread can lead to a soggy stuffing. Always use dried bread cubes for the best texture.
• Skipping the Herbs: Neglecting fresh herbs can dull the flavor. Make sure to include thyme and rosemary for a fragrant stuffing.
• Not Stirring Enough: Failing to stir every 30 minutes can cause uneven cooking. Stir well to ensure even moisture distribution.
• Overloading the Slow Cooker: Packing too much stuffing into the slow cooker can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amount of bread cubes.
• Ignoring Moisture Levels: Adding too much stock will make your stuffing mushy. Start with less and add more as needed until just moistened.
• Rushing the Cooking Time: Cooking on high instead of low can ruin the dish’s texture. Always cook on low for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow stuffing to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover stuffing with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing.

Can I use different types of sausage?

You can certainly substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option while still enjoying great flavor.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing?

Feel free to add ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, or different vegetables according to your taste preferences.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs can be used as alternatives; however, use them sparingly since they’re more concentrated than fresh ones.

How long does it take for this recipe to cook?

The Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing needs about 4 hours on low heat, with occasional stirring for even cooking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! This stuffing is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Sausage Stuffing is not only an excellent side dish but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it suitable for any gathering. Give it a try and discover how delightful it is!