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Crispy Sage Sausage Cornbread Dressing

crispy sage sausage cornbread dressing - featured image
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A rich and savory cornbread dressing featuring browned sage sausage, fresh herbs, and a golden, crispy crust. This comforting side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large batch day-old cornbread (approx. 9x13 inch pan), crumbled into 1-inch chunks
  • 1 lb sweet or mild Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 stalks celery, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, leaves stripped
  • 2 to 2.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Crumble the day-old cornbread into a large mixing bowl, aiming for 1-inch chunks.
  2. Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Drain excess grease from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add butter, onion, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until onions are soft. Add sage and thyme in the last minute.
  4. Pour the sausage and vegetable mixture over the crumbled cornbread in the mixing bowl. Toss gently to distribute evenly.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and chicken broth. Add about 2 cups of broth first.
  6. Pour the wet mixture over the bread. Gently fold everything together without mashing the bread. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the liquid.
  7. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the dressing evenly and press down lightly with the back of a spoon.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake covered with foil for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  10. Let the dressing rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

Use day-old cornbread to prevent mushiness. If making ahead, assemble the night before and refrigerate; add 10-15 minutes to baking time if baking from cold. For a vegetarian version, swap sausage for mushrooms and walnuts. Ensure the sausage is well-browned for maximum flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread dressing, sage sausage, Thanksgiving side dish, crispy stuffing, holiday recipes, comfort food

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/crispy-sage-sausage-cornbread-dressing-easy-best-recipe/