Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing Recipe

65

At the heart of these gatherings often lies an iconic and comforting dish: the celebrated stuffing. For those who grew up with the enticing aromas wafting from the kitchen, stuffing isn’t just a side dish; it’s a nostalgic tapestry woven from cherished memories. Among the countless variations out there, one stands out with its hearty flavor and effortless preparation: the classic Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing.

How to make Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing

Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing is a pre-packaged, seasoned bread stuffing mix that includes sausage as one of its main ingredients. It is designed to be a quick and easy solution for making stuffing, particularly for holiday meals like Thanksgiving. The product typically contains bread cubes, sausage pieces, seasonings (such as sage, thyme, and rosemary), and sometimes additional ingredients like onions or celery, depending on the variety.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of fresh sausage (either a mild or spicy variety based on your preference)
• 1 1/2 cups of chopped onion
• 1 cup of chopped celery
• 1 clove of garlic, minced (optional, for that extra hint of flavor)
• 2 1/2 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to keep everything moist and flavorful
• 1 package (12 to 14 ounces) of Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing. This is the base that brings the classic flavor.
• Butter or oil for cooking

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your stuffing will cook evenly.
2. Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until well browned, stirring often. This usually takes about 10 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the drippings.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more butter or oil if needed. Add the chopped onions and celery (and garlic, if you’re using it). Sauté until the vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing, gently stirring to combine well, ensuring the flavors meld together.
5. Add Broth: Gradually pour in the broth over the mixture, stirring until well incorporated. The broth is crucial as it helps to moisten the stuffing, giving it the perfect texture.
6. Bake: Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the stuffing from drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes of baking for a crispier top.
7. Serve: Once baked to perfection, let it cool slightly, then serve warm, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Stuffing

• Sausage Selection: The type of sausage you choose can significantly affect the flavor profile. For a twist, experiment with different styles, such as Italian sausage, chorizo, or even vegetarian sausage.
• Broth is Key: Using a good quality, flavorful broth makes all the difference. It enhances the stuffing’s taste and keeps it moist.
• Adjust to Your Taste: For a touch of sweetness, feel free to add more vegetables, such as diced carrots or even some chopped apples.
• Ensuring Moisture: If you prefer extra moist stuffing, don’t hesitate to add a bit more broth. Just be careful not to make it soggy.
• Make Ahead: To save time, prepare your stuffing a day ahead. That way, all you have to do on the big day is bake it.

What to serve with

Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing is a versatile and hearty side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of foods, making it the perfect accompaniment for your festive meals or cozy dinners.

Main Dishes

• Roast Turkey: The classic choice for a reason, turkey and stuffing are a time-honored duo. The flavors of the Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing marry perfectly with the juicy, tender meat of the turkey, creating a quintessential holiday meal.
• Roast Chicken: A simpler alternative to turkey, roast chicken paired with sausage stuffing offers a comforting and satisfying meal fit for any day of the week, not just special occasions.
• Glazed Ham: The sweetness of a honey-glazed ham contrasts delightfully with the savory depth of Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing, making for a festive and flavorful pairing.
• Pork Loin: A beautifully roasted pork loin, with its crispy exterior and succulent interior, complements the hearty textures and flavors of the stuffing.

Vegetables & Sides

• Green Bean Almondine: The brightness and crunch of green beans tossed with almonds create a light side that balances the richness of the stuffing.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy and caramelized, Brussels sprouts add a deliciously earthy counterpoint to the savory sausage and herbs in the stuffing.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of this casserole contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage stuffing, making for a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of tangy cranberry sauce not only adds a pop of color to your plate but also introduces a delightful tartness that cuts through the richness of the stuffing.

Bread & Rolls

• Dinner Rolls or Croissants: Soft, buttery dinner rolls or flaky croissants are perfect for sopping up any broth or juices on your plate, ensuring you enjoy every last bit of flavor.

Beverages

• Red Wine: A robust red wine such as a Merlot or Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of sausage stuffing, enhancing the dining experience.
• Apple Cider: For a non-alcoholic option, warm apple cider offers a sweet and spicy beverage choice that complements the stuffing and creates a cozy, autumnal vibe.

Desserts

• Pumpkin Pie: Finish your meal on a classic note with a slice of creamy pumpkin pie, the perfect sweet to follow the savory richness of the stuffing.
• Pecan Pie: For those who prefer a crunch with their sweetness, pecan pie offers a delightful finish with its caramel notes and nutty texture.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making a homemade version of Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing allows you to personalize the stuffing to your taste preferences and dietary needs. If you’re looking to substitute some ingredients for health reasons, flavor preferences, or availability issues, here are detailed suggestions on how to adapt your recipe.

Bread

Original: The traditional Pepperidge Farm stuffing uses cubed white or seasoned bread as its base.

Substitutes: For a healthier option, consider whole wheat, multigrain, or sourdough bread. For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free bread. To add different flavors, you might also explore using cornbread or rye bread, keeping in mind these flavors will be more prominent.

Sausage

Original: Typically, pork sausage is used for its rich flavor and fat content, which adds moisture and taste.

Substitutes: For a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well. For vegetarians, a plant-based sausage can serve as a direct substitute. Alternatively, chopped mushrooms or lentils mixed with fennel, garlic, and sage can mimic the texture and taste of sausage for a vegan stuffing.

Onions and Celery

Original: These vegetables are staples for their aromatic contributions.

Substitutes: For a milder onion flavor, use shallots or leeks. If you’re out of celery but still want that crunchy texture, try using chopped water chestnuts or fennel bulb for a similar crunch with a slightly different flavor profile.

Butter

Original: Butter is used to sauté the vegetables and add richness.

Substitutes: For a dairy-free or vegan version, use a plant-based butter substitute or olive oil. Avocado oil is a healthier option due to its high smoke point and health benefits.

Broth

Original: Chicken broth is typically used to moisten the stuffing.

Substitutes: Vegetable broth works perfectly for a vegetarian version. If your main dish includes beef broth, you might consider using it for added depth of flavor. Turkey broth can be a great alternative for a more intense poultry flavor.

Herbs and Seasonings

Original: Sage, thyme, and parsley are the classic herbs used.

Substitutes: If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used (remember the rule of thumb: one part dried to three parts fresh). For different flavor profiles, consider incorporating rosemary for a Mediterranean touch or marjoram for a slightly sweet and citrusy note. Adjust these based on your main dish to complement the flavors nicely.

Eggs (if used as a binder)

Original: Some recipes call for eggs to help bind the stuffing together.

Substitutes: For those avoiding eggs, flaxseed or chia seeds soaked in water can serve as a binding agent. A bit of mashed potato can also help bind the mixture without using eggs.

Final Thoughts

Pepperidge Farm Sausage Stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a comforting reminder of family traditions and holiday cheer. With this straightforward recipe and a touch of personal flair, you’ll have a delicious, memorable stuffing that might just steal the show at your next gathering.

More Stuffing Recipes:

• Trader Joe’s Gluten Free Stuffing Recipe
• Sausage Stuffing for Thanksgiving