Best Turkey Stuffing Casserole Recipe

Looking for the ultimate turkey stuffing casserole? This cherished family recipe is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dinner! Thanks to one secret ingredient: sausage, it strikes a delightful balance between savory and sweet. Paired with aromatic chestnuts, this dish will become a holiday tradition.

As a mom, one thing I can always count on during Thanksgiving is my kids asking, “Are you making your stuffing?” I know I must make at least two batches—one for the big Thanksgiving dinner and another for the next day because there are never any leftovers! It’s always a hit, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Ingredients for the Turkey Stuffing Casserole

Bread and Sausage Base:

• Sourdough Bread Cubes: Provide a hearty, rustic texture to the casserole, absorbing flavors and adding substance.
• Italian Sausage (No Casing): Infuse savory, spicy notes, elevating the dish’s taste profile.

Vegetables and Herbs:

• Leek: Impart a mild oniony flavor with a touch of sweetness, enhancing depth.
• Celery Offers a refreshing, slightly earthy crunch, balancing the richness.
• Fennel: Bring subtle anise-like sweetness and a hint of licorice, complementing other ingredients.
• Steamed Chestnuts: Contribute a nutty, earthy essence, adding depth to the stuffing.
• Italian Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous flavor and a touch of color to enhance your dish’s taste and presentation.

Liquid and Seasonings:

• Turkey or Chicken Broth: Create moisture, keeping the casserole succulent and flavorful.
• Unsalted Butter: Add richness and a silky mouthfeel, binding the ingredients.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Season and enhance the overall taste, ensuring balanced seasoning.
• Caraway Seeds: Offer a hint of earthy, anise-like flavor, adding complexity.
• Fresh Rosemary, Thyme, and Sage (Chopped): Provide aromatic depth and herbal brightness, elevating the dish’s fragrance.

Sausage and Broth Mixing

For the perfect turkey stuffing casserole, the sausage and broth mixing steps are key:

Sausage Integration:

• Mix the sausage-vegetable blend into the bread, allowing the bread to absorb savory juices and aromatic herbs.
• Choose mild sausage to maintain a balanced flavor profile without overpowering the stuffing.
• Tip: To remove the sausage casing easily, slice off the ends, make a small incision, and use a paper towel to grip and peel away the casing effortlessly.

Meticulous Broth Mixing:

• Gradually pour in the broth, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure even absorption.
• Aim for the ideal moisture balance: the bread should absorb the broth without becoming soggy or leaving excess liquid behind.

Choosing and Preparing the Best Bread for Stuffing

When it comes to preparing the best stuffing, the details make all the difference:

• Bread Selection: Choose stale, dried bread for maximum flavor absorption. Air—dry homemade bread for at least two days before use. French, Italian, sourdough, or brioche bread enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
• Elevate the Recipe: Customize your stuffing with extras like diced apples or dried cranberries for sweetness and toasted nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans) for added crunch and depth.
• Advance Preparation: Save time on Thanksgiving Day by prepping the stuffing beforehand. Mix all ingredients up to three days before and refrigerate without sacrificing flavor.

Thanksgiving Side Dishes Made Easy

Let’s create a delectable Thanksgiving feast! Start with a succulent oven-roasted herb turkey, beautifully seasoned and roasted to golden perfection. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, tender green beans topped with crispy shallots, and a generous serving of classic mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience. For dessert, indulge in a velvety Pumpkin Tart that embodies the essence of autumn, or savor a slice of deep-dish Apple Pie filled with cinnamon-kissed apples. Don’t forget to include a dish of roasted Brussels sprouts to add wholesome goodness to your holiday spread.

Gather your loved ones this Thanksgiving and enjoy a memorable feast with delicious flavors and cherished traditions.