Sourdough Stuffing with Cranberries & Sausage

This Sourdough Stuffing with Cranberries & Sausage is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy — a festive twist on the classic holiday side. Toasted sourdough absorbs all the rich flavors of sausage, onions, herbs, and broth, while tart cranberries add brightness in every bite. It’s hearty, aromatic, and guaranteed to be the star of your holiday table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 🍂

🥖 Incredible Texture: Crunchy edges + soft, flavorful center.
🍇 Sweet & Savory: Cranberries and sausage create the perfect balance.
🌿 Holiday Aromas: Sage, thyme, and toasted sourdough make the kitchen smell amazing.
🍽️ Crowd-Pleasing: A festive twist everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Stuffing Base:

• 10 cups cubed sourdough bread (1–2 days old for best texture)
• 1 lb sausage (sweet or mild), casings removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2–3 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Toast the Bread

Spread cubed sourdough on a baking sheet and toast at 300°F (150°C) for 20–25 minutes until lightly crisp. This helps the stuffing absorb flavors without getting soggy.

Step 2 – Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Remove and set aside.

Step 3 – Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt butter, then add onion, celery, garlic, sage, and thyme. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 4 – Combine Everything

Add toasted bread, sausage, aromatics, cranberries, salt, and pepper into a large bowl. Whisk eggs with broth and pour over the mixture. Toss gently until the bread is moistened.

Step 5 – Bake the Stuffing

Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.

Expert Tips 💡

🥖 Use high-quality sourdough — it adds depth and tang.
🍇 Fresh cranberries add brightness, while dried add sweetness — choose based on your preference.
🧈 Add more broth if you prefer a softer stuffing.
🌿 Mix in toasted pecans for extra crunch and flavor.

What to Serve With

• Roast turkey or chicken
• Honey-glazed ham
• Green beans with almonds
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole

FAQs

❓ Can I make this stuffing ahead?
Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake before serving.

❓ Can I use another type of bread?
Brioche, French bread, or multigrain work — but sourdough adds the best flavor and structure.

❓ Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth — add mushrooms for savory depth.

Conclusion

This Sourdough Stuffing with Cranberries & Sausage brings together the perfect holiday flavors — tangy bread, savory sausage, bright cranberries, and fragrant herbs. It’s festive, comforting, and guaranteed to become a treasured family favorite.