Irresistible Cornbread Sausage Stuffing Recipe for the Ultimate Comfort Feast

There’s something about Cornbread Sausage Stuffing that takes me right back to those cozy Sundays at my grandmother’s farmhouse in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It wasn’t just about the food—though Mama Lu’s skillet cornbread was legendary—it was about the moments shared around the table, the stories told, and the comfort found in every bite. This stuffing recipe carries that same spirit: warm, hearty, and full of soul. If you’re looking for a dish that’s as nourishing to the heart as it is to the stomach, this Cornbread Sausage Stuffing might just become your new holiday staple or anytime comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Sausage Stuffing

Growing up, stuffing wasn’t just a side dish; it was a centerpiece of family gatherings. Mama Lu never measured much—her recipes were always “a pinch of this” and “a handful of that.” This Cornbread Sausage Stuffing captures that free-spirited, no-fuss approach but with a reliable rhythm for you to follow. It balances the sweet, crumbly texture of golden cornbread with the rich, savory punch of sausage, rounded out by fresh herbs and aromatics. Every forkful brings a little bit of that farmhouse kitchen magic, where simple ingredients come alive.

Beyond the flavor, what makes this recipe special is its adaptability and the memories it can create. Whether you’re stirring it in a big cast-iron skillet or piling it into a casserole dish, it invites everyone to gather around and share stories just like Mama Lu’s porch swing tales. It’s also a dish that honors tradition while welcoming your own twists—like adding a handful of chopped pecans or swapping in spicy breakfast sausage for a bit of a kick.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cornbread Sausage Stuffing

• 6 cups homemade or store-bought cornbread, crumbled (about one 9-inch skillet’s worth)
• 1 pound mild or spicy ground pork sausage
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried sage)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Substitution tips: If you don’t have cornbread on hand, a sturdy white bread or brioche works in a pinch, but cornbread’s crumbly texture is what makes this stuffing sing. For a vegetarian option, swap sausage for sautéed mushrooms and add extra herbs for depth.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 360 per serving (1 cup)
• Protein: 18 grams
• Fat: 22 grams
• Carbohydrates: 24 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 3 grams
• Sodium: 580 milligrams

These numbers will vary depending on sausage type and bread choice, but overall, this stuffing offers a hearty balance of protein and carbs with a comforting dose of fat—just like Mama Lu’s meals that kept everyone fueled for a day of porch-sitting and storytelling.

Steps to Create Your Cornbread Sausage Stuffing

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large cast-iron skillet.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed but leave a little for flavor.
4. Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh herbs—parsley, sage, and thyme—season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread and the sausage-vegetable mixture. Toss gently to blend.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and eggs. Slowly pour this mixture over the cornbread and sausage blend, folding gently to moisten everything evenly. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.
7. Transfer the stuffing mixture into your prepared baking dish or skillet. Spread it out evenly and cover with foil.
8. Bake for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
9. Let the stuffing rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the texture to firm up just right.

One thing Mama Lu always reminded me: “Don’t rush the resting part. It’s when all those flavors really get cozy.” I’ve found that little pause makes a big difference.

Tips for Making the Best Cornbread Sausage Stuffing

• Use day-old cornbread: Fresh cornbread can make stuffing mushy. Let your cornbread sit out overnight or toast it lightly to dry it out before crumbling.
• Choose your sausage wisely: Mild sausage lets the herbs shine, spicy sausage adds a lively kick—both are delicious. When I’m feeling nostalgic, I stick with what Mama Lu used, a simple pork sausage from the local butcher.
• Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs are the soul of this stuffing. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs will work, but add them a little earlier in the cooking process to release their flavor.
• Moisten gradually: Pour the broth and eggs slowly over the cornbread mixture to avoid sogginess. You want a tender bite, not a stew.
• Customize with extras: Throw in chopped pecans, dried cranberries, or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor. Mama Lu once added a handful of chopped apples, which brought a surprising sweetness.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Cornbread Sausage Stuffing is a natural partner to roasted turkey or a simple baked chicken, but it’s no stranger to the holiday table either. I remember how Mama Lu’s pot roast would almost always be accompanied by a generous scoop of stuffing, even when it wasn’t Thanksgiving.

For a full meal, pair it with:

• Roasted root vegetables glazed with a touch of honey and thyme
• Steamed green beans tossed in butter and toasted almonds
• Creamy mashed potatoes or a smooth sweet potato casserole
• A crisp apple cider or a glass of dry white wine to cut through the richness

Leftovers? This stuffing also makes a fantastic breakfast hash—just fry it up with a couple of eggs and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese for a comforting start to the day.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Like all good comfort foods, this stuffing tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have had a chance to mingle. Here’s how to keep that magic alive:

• To store: Cover leftover stuffing tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To freeze: Place stuffing in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, uncovering for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top. Alternatively, reheat smaller portions in the microwave, but the oven method keeps that homemade texture intact.
• Pro tip: Sprinkle a little extra broth over the stuffing before reheating if it seems dry. A pat of butter on top helps bring back that fresh-from-the-oven glow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Cornbread Sausage Stuffing?

The main ingredients for Cornbread Sausage Stuffing include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Cornbread Sausage Stuffing?

The total time to make Cornbread Sausage Stuffing includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Cornbread Sausage Stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, Cornbread Sausage Stuffing can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Cornbread Sausage Stuffing?

Cornbread Sausage Stuffing pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Cornbread Sausage Stuffing suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Cornbread Sausage Stuffing may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This Cornbread Sausage Stuffing is more than just a recipe—it’s a bridge to those simple, soulful moments spent in a farmhouse kitchen, where food was a language spoken with love and patience. From Mama Lu’s gentle guidance to the bustling holiday tables I’ve been lucky to join since moving west, this dish carries the warmth of home wherever it’s served.

Whether you’re cooking it for a special occasion or just because you want to wrap yourself in something familiar and comforting, I hope this recipe brings you the same joy it’s brought me. Remember, the best recipes aren’t just followed—they’re felt, tasted, and shared. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make some memories with a dish that’s truly made from the heart.