Delicious Sausage Chestnut Stuffing for the Holidays

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Sausage Chestnut Stuffing is a delightful holiday side dish that instantly elevates your festive meals. Combining the rustic flavors of cornbread and country white bread with savory sweet Italian sausage, tender chestnuts, fresh herbs, and a hint of apple cider, this stuffing is a must-try. The rich aroma fills your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings or holiday feasts. Imagine serving this alongside your roasted turkey or holiday ham, making every bite a moment of joy. Let’s dive into the flavors of this savory chestnut stuffing recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Chestnut Stuffing

This sausage chestnut stuffing offers many reasons to be the star of your holiday table. First, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of sweet Italian sausage and roasted chestnuts. Second, the use of cornbread and white bread gives it a unique texture that’s both hearty and comforting. Third, the addition of fresh herbs like sage and thyme enhances its savory profile. This stuffing is also versatile; you can easily modify it to suit dietary needs, such as creating a gluten-free sausage chestnut stuffing. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, reducing stress on busy holiday days. Finally, it pairs perfectly with roasted turkey, making it an ideal choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.

Ingredients for Sausage Chestnut Stuffing

Gather these items:

6 cups cubed day-old cornbread, 1/2- to 3/4-inch cubes (about 1 pound)
6 cups cubed country white bread, 1/2- to 3/4-inch cubes (about 2/3 pound)
1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 cup diced celery (1/4-inch dice)
1 1/2 cups diced yellow onion (1/4-inch dice)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning (Bell’s Seasoning recommended)
1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf (Italian) parsley
Diamond Crystal kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup peeled roasted or steamed chestnuts, quartered
1 cup sweet apple cider
2 to 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken or turkey stock (additional if needed)
2 large eggs, lightly beaten

How to Make Sausage Chestnut Stuffing Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 250°F. Spread the cornbread and country white bread cubes in an even layer on two rimmed half-sheet pans. Bake until lightly toasted and dried throughout, about 50 to 65 minutes, stirring and rotating pans halfway through. Remove and allow to cool completely.
Step 2: Increase oven temperature to 375°F. Butter a 3-quart gratin dish or a 13×9-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 3: Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 4: Add 4 more tablespoons of butter to the skillet. When melted, add diced celery and onions. Cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes until onions are translucent and celery is softened. Stir in chopped sage, rosemary, thyme, poultry seasoning, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook an additional minute until fragrant, then remove from heat.
Step 5: In a large bowl, combine the cooled bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed celery and onions, parsley, and quartered chestnuts. Stir gently to mix well.
Step 6: Pour the apple cider and 1 cup of broth or stock over the bread mixture. Stir and let stand for a few minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Beat the eggs with 1/2 cup broth or stock in a measuring cup. Pour this over the stuffing mixture and fold gently to combine. Let stand a few minutes for absorption.
Step 8: Test moisture by squeezing a white bread cube; it should be moist but not mushy. Add more stock 1/4 cup at a time if needed, folding gently and retesting until the ideal consistency is reached.
Step 9: Transfer the stuffing mixture to the buttered baking dish. Cut remaining 2 tablespoons butter into small pieces and dot evenly over the top.
Step 10: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Step 11: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the stuffing reaches 165°F internally and the top is golden brown with crispy edges.
Step 12: Let the stuffing rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with additional herbs and serving warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Sausage Chestnut Stuffing

Keep these in mind:

This stuffing can be prepared in advance, making it easy to serve on busy holiday days.
It pairs well with roasted turkey or other festive main courses. Roasted turkey is a classic pairing!
To make a gluten-free sausage chestnut stuffing, use gluten-free bread and stock.
Experiment with additional herbs like thyme or add apples for a sweet twist in your stuffing.

Best Ways to Serve Sausage Chestnut Stuffing

This stuffing is a fantastic accompaniment to your holiday turkey or ham. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a unique twist, try it as a filling in stuffed peppers or as a topping for shepherd’s pie. The versatility of this sausage and chestnut filling makes it a winner for any occasion!

How to Store and Reheat Sausage Chestnut Stuffing

If you have leftovers, store the stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through. This could be a great meal prep option for a busy weeknight, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish even after the holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage Chestnut Stuffing

What is Sausage Chestnut Stuffing?

Sausage chestnut stuffing is a savory mixture typically made with bread, sausage, chestnuts, and a blend of herbs. It’s often used as a stuffing for poultry or served as a side dish.

Can I make Sausage Chestnut Stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve for a stress-free holiday meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sausage Chestnut Stuffing?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your bread is well-dried to prevent a mushy texture. Also, adjust the seasoning to your taste, as some stocks can be saltier than others.

Creative Variations of Sausage Chestnut Stuffing You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your chestnut sausage stuffing! You can add diced apples for a hint of sweetness, incorporate dried fruits like cranberries, or use different herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh flavor. For a healthier option, consider making a healthy sausage chestnut stuffing with whole grain bread. Honey roasted root vegetables can also complement this dish beautifully.